Lucy's Magical Disney Cruise

Lucy’s Magical Disney Cruise

Lucy, who is diagnosed with spina bifida, set sail on an unforgettable Disney Cruise! The excitement as she stepped aboard the Disney Cruise ship was spellbinding. Every moment was filled with joy as she laughed, played, and soaked in the magic around her. And even after the cruise ended, the joy and confidence she gained stayed with her, helping her face life’s challenges with renewed strength and a heart full of memories.

Family Thank You

“This trip truly was a dream come true! Lucy enjoyed every minute of this trip! She smiled, laughed, and played every waking moment she had. From the characters, to the beach, to the kids’ clubs, to the veranda where she could watch the beautiful blue water and the sun rise each morning! Within 24 hours of us getting off the ship, she developed a fever of 102.5- she had developed a double bacterial infection in her kidneys and required hospitalization for the first week we were home. And the two days after she was released, she had a planned hip surgery- this trip has been the topic of discussion throughout her hospital stays! She had so much to tell everyone that it kept her smiling throughout all of the medical interventions she was experiencing. She even created a mosaic from tiles of the blue water and the sunrise she watched on the ship! For all she goes through, she is an absolute joy, and taking her on this trip was such a joyous, carefree time for us!” – Lucy’s mom, Michele.

Lucy’s Diagnosis

Lucy is diagnosed with spina bifida. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines spina bifida as a birth disorder where the neural tube doesn’t close completely, and some of the bones of the spine do not close in the back. This may create an opening anywhere on the back, potentially causing damage to the spinal cord and nerves. People born with spina bifida may have nerve damage below the affected area. Some children with spina bifida may also have learning or intellectual disabilities.

Our Mission

Sunshine Foundation answers the dreams of children, ages three through eighteen, who have severe or profound physical/developmental/intellectual challenges or trauma from physical/sexual abuse, and whose families have limited income. Since 1976, Sunshine Foundation has spread Sunshine into the lives of more than 43,280 children.