OTSEGO COUNTY — A child from Otsego living with Level 3 severe autism experienced a dream come true thanks to the Sunshine Foundation, which granted her a magical trip to Central Florida’s major theme parks.
Peyton Wuis and her family recently returned from the Sunshine Foundation’s signature “Magical Dream” experience, which included visits to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Legoland. Peyton’s trip was fully sponsored by a donor supporting the foundation’s mission to serve children with lifelong chronic conditions.
“Peyton and our family had an incredible time, it was truly a magical dream come true for her,” her mother said in a statement. “She lit up with joy meeting all the wonderful characters and loved every moment on the rides. We are so deeply grateful to our sponsor and the Sunshine Foundation for making this unforgettable experience possible.”
Founded in 1976, the Sunshine Foundation grants dreams to children with severe chronic conditions, including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, epilepsy, Down syndrome, trauma from abuse and Level 3 severe autism. The organization is unique in that it supports children who may not qualify for other wish-granting services that focus on life-threatening diagnoses.
Many children who participate in the program stay at the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village, a resort-style facility near Disney designed for families with special needs. In addition to theme park trips, the nonprofit also grants “Special Dreams,” including shopping sprees, adaptive equipment, family vacations and outdoor playsets.
The Sunshine Foundation has fulfilled more than 43,000 dreams across the United States and has earned a 100% rating from Charity Navigator and an “A” grade from CharityWatch.
For more information or to make a donation, visit www.sunshinefoundation.org.