Hailey
Every child dreams of visiting the magical world of Disney. For one young girl from northeast Missouri, that dream has finally come true.
Six-year-old Avera, who has bravely battled cancer, is about to travel to Disney World with her family — all thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Her story is full of courage, love, and hope that shows the power of kindness in difficult times.
Avera’s Brave Fight Against Cancer
Avera’s life changed in September 2023 when doctors found a stage 4 Wilms tumor, a type of kidney cancer. At just six years old, she began a long and painful journey through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments.
Throughout her treatments, Avera stayed positive and strong. Her parents and doctors supported her every step of the way. After months of treatment, her medical port was finally removed in July 2025, marking a huge step toward recovery.
Despite the pain and fear, Avera never gave up hope. Her dream of visiting Disney World helped her stay strong during the hardest days.
The Magical Surprise
In October 2025, Avera and her family went to a McDonald’s restaurant in Hannibal, Missouri, where they received a wonderful surprise. The Make-A-Wish Foundation, with help from the local community, told Avera that her wish to visit Disney World was granted.
The moment was full of joy and happy tears. To make it even more special, McDonald’s famous character Hamburglar joined the celebration. The restaurant team decorated the space, and everyone cheered for Avera.
Her family said it was one of the happiest days of their lives. After months of hospital visits and tough treatments, it was finally time for Avera to experience something joyful.
The Upcoming Trip
Avera and her family are scheduled to leave for Disney World on November 30, 2025. The trip will include a full week of fun, laughter, and adventure. For the family, it’s more than a vacation — it’s a chance to relax, heal, and make memories that will last forever.
Why This Wish Matters
The Make-A-Wish Foundation has one goal — to bring hope and happiness to children with serious illnesses. These wishes give children something positive to focus on during their hardest moments.
Avera’s story reminds everyone that kindness can make a big difference. A simple act — like helping a child reach her dream — can bring peace and inspiration to an entire community.
Here are the main details about Avera’s wish:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Avera |
| Age | 6 years |
| Hometown | Monroe City, Missouri |
| Illness | Stage 4 Wilms tumor (kidney cancer) |
| Treatments | Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation |
| Surprise Location | McDonald’s, Hannibal, Missouri |
| Wish Granted By | Make-A-Wish Foundation |
| Trip Destination | Disney World |
| Departure Date | November 30, 2025 |
The Power of Hope
Every wish granted by Make-A-Wish is a reminder that hope still exists even in the darkest times. For children like Avera, these moments bring strength and courage to continue fighting.
Stories like hers also show how communities can come together to spread love and support. Local businesses, volunteers, and strangers united to give one little girl her dream — a moment she will never forget.
Avera’s story is more than a headline — it’s a symbol of faith, courage, and compassion. Her journey from hospital rooms to the happiest place on Earth shows that dreams can come true when people care.
As she heads to Disney World, she carries not just her excitement, but the love and strength of everyone who stood by her. Her smile is proof that hope has no limits, and even the smallest act of kindness can change a life.