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Make-A-Wish Southern Florida Fulfills Disney Dream for Young Leukemia Survivor

by Ryan Yousefi September 5, 2024

by Ryan Yousefi September 5, 2024 3 minutes read

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Photos of Emilio celebrating his remission and Make-A-Wish Southern Florida granting his wish.

Make-A-Wish Southern Florida is celebrating the hard-fought triumph of a Coral Springs child over leukemia by sending him on the Disney Cruise of his dreams.

Emilio, who has been bravely battling leukemia for the past two years, underwent numerous rounds of chemotherapy and treatments at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood.

According to his parents, Fernando and Daniela, Emilio’s journey recently reached a long-awaited milestone: the end of his on-site chemotherapy treatments.

Loved ones and caregivers gathered with Emilio to celebrate his remission by ringing the bell, a tradition symbolizing the end of a critical phase in the fight against cancer.

But the celebration for Emilio didn’t stop there. Make-A-Wish Southern Florida tells Coral Springs Talk the non-profit surprised him with the news that his wish to go on a Disney cruise, a dream he expressed during his treatments, would be fulfilled from September 23 to 27.

Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, one of 59 chapters in the U.S., grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses. It raises funds through corporate sponsorships, special events, foundation grants, and individual contributions, with over 70% of its $12 million annual budget allocated to granting wishes. Emilio’s Disney Cruise is one such wish.

Emilio, a student at Heron Heights Elementary, began his battle with leukemia while in kindergarten. Following his diagnosis, he participated in the school’s “homebound” program, where teachers visited his home to ensure he continued his education.

Now, Emilio is back in the classroom, starting first grade with a new lease on life and a Disney cruise soon.

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Author Profile

Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiple outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.