Kevan has a rare neuromuscular disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and uses a wheelchair to navigate life. He grew up in the foothills of North Carolina, with his parents and two siblings. Although SMA progressively weakens his muscles, Kevan is an adventurer – one who is dedicated to making the world more accessible. (click for more)
10-year old wish kid Alex has a smile that can light up the Avenue at Give Kids The World Village. He loves Amberville Train Station and could ride JJ’s Express over and over. He’s silly and energetic with a big heart for others. At just 3 years old, Alex was diagnosed with a genetic condition. (click for more)
Give Kids The World is a place where wishes come true, but it’s also a place where wishes come full circle. Meet Kylie: A wish kid in 2003 to a full-time staff member at the Village today! Kylie was born with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder that damages the lungs and digestive system. When (click for more)
Throughout Give Kids The World Village, you’ll find venues, streets, and exciting attractions named after wish kids who have visited. And, our newest ride is no different! On Valentine’s Day, we unveiled Kelly’s Sunny Swing, our new nine-person swing. The wheelchair-accessible ride is named after a child who visited in September 1993. At Give Kids (click for more)
Nearly 24 years ago, I arrived at Give Kids The World Village to begin the trip of a lifetime. I had been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, at the age of 11 and after enduring almost a year of intense chemotherapy treatments, hospitalizations, and surgeries, I was ready for a break to (click for more)
