I hope this finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing today with utmost compassion and conviction, as I’ve recently become aware of a cause that deeply resonates with my values and beliefs. It is my sincere hope that my words will evoke empathy, inspire action, and garner your support. Allow me to share a personal anecdote that has ignited my dedication to this cause. For the first time last year, and again this year, my husband and I volunteered to attend and support the Lil Abner Foundation’s Disney on Wheels weekend trip to the Magic Kingdom. Personally participating and volunteering to lend support to a group of ten (10) medically fragile children and their families for the weekend allowed us the privilege of witnessing first-hand the transformative impact the event has on these children and their families. We met young souls who, against all odds, displayed unwavering determination to succeed despite their extremely challenging circumstances. Thanks to the generosity of several sponsors and the tireless efforts of so many volunteers who worked for months to plan and prepare for the event, this trip was a total success. This past weekend the caravan of coach buses, ambulances, and police cars transported forty-five (45) severely medically fragile children and their families to the Magic Kingdom for the weekend. This was an increase from last year’s trip that only included sixteen (16) children. Once again, it was a great honor to help these children and their families pursue joy and happiness against all odds.
As a result of participating in these unforgettable and humbling experiences, I stand before you today as a fervent advocate for the Lil Abner Foundation’s Disney on Wheels’ mission to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for these well deserving children. Their future lies in our hands, and we have a profound responsibility to ensure they receive the love, care, and support they require to help make their wish to visit Disney World’s Magic Kingdom a reality. Granting a medically fragile child’s wish to visit “the happiest place on Earth” is an exciting part of the journey that helps give kids with critical illnesses the strength to fight far beyond their current situation, which is why your support and partnership with the Lil Abner Foundation is so critical. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and volunteers, The Lil Abner Foundation will continue to deliver hope and joy to children and their families when they need it most.
We are all aware that medically fragile children have extensive medical issues that require around-the-clock supervision and care. They typically rely on medical equipment and require assistance with basic personal care activities. But at the end of the day, they are still children. They enjoy playing, laughing, and spending time with loved ones. Creating joyful moments lead to lasting memories, and for this reason, my husband and I will continue to lend our support to this wonderful cause. How will you make your mark?
With Heartfelt Sincerity,
Cynthia and Ignacio Menocal
