Six-year-old Makena Lodge’s favorite TV show is Mickey Mouse Club House and her favorite actress is Minnie Mouse. So when Makena had the opportunity to travel to the Give Kids the World Village in Orlando, FL to meet Minnie, she was delighted. There, she met Minnie Mouse. Makena’s father describes how “when Minnie walked into the VIP lounge at Magic Kingdom, [Makena’s] heart lit up so much that she cried a little bit, which made Mom and Dad do the same”. Makena’s mother, father, and older sister accompanied her on the trip which was one that the family will never forget, says Makena’s father, Joe. He describes how “those of us who have loved ones with CF know the struggles they go through on a daily basis. Like simple things, getting up 45 minutes before everybody else so they can start their breathing treatments. To have a week where after her treatments instead of going to school she got to meet her idol was awesome.”
Makena’s awesome trip included other trip highlights, like a Give Kids the World princess makeup session and a photo-op for Makena and her sister with a larger-than-life-sized dog (Makena’s favorite animal). Though it’s safe to say that the hangouts with Minnie were probably the best part of the Lodge family trip!
