Help Send Abbie to Disneyland for the First Time!

Hello, my name is Amanda Ramirez and I have the incredible luck of being Abbie's auntie. This April, Abbie will be turning 11! She has made a special request this year- to go to Disneyland so she can meet her favorite princesses. She wants to ask Princess Tiana for a hug and tell Belle her dress is so beautiful. Sure, most kids dream about going to Disneyland. But Abbie isn't like most kids. Abbie is autistic.

It's been eight years since Abbie was first diagnosed with autism. Doctors told my sister that Abbie's ability to speak and learn would be severely delayed. It was a frightening confrontation to say the least. Thankfully, Abbie would surprise everyone when in a few years at Gibson Elementary she made significant progress in her speech and socialization. She's blossomed and it's been such a joy to watch her grow and expand her world. A birthday Disneyland trip will be a huge milestone for Abbie.

As Abbie's "fun" auntie, I take it upon myself to treat her to as many fun outings and adventures as I can. Last year we went to Monterrey and splashed in the ocean waves. This year, she wants Disneyland. It's only a six hour drive to Anaheim, but financially, it's too far for me alone. Like many Americans, I live paycheck-to-paycheck. It's not an excuse. It's just the reality. So I figure there's no shame in asking for a little help. Especially if it means I get to take my niece to Disneyland, like a good auntie should. I would be forever grateful.

Thank you for reading. Any donation is greatly appreciated.

With love,

Amanda and Abbie