Make-A-Wish Ambassadors

Ellah was born on as a micro preemie at 24 weeks old and weighing 1lb and 7oz. She was flown by the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center helicopter to be treated in their NICU in Lebanon, NH. Ellah was there for 6 months. This is where she had to undergo PDA ligation surgery and where we almost lost her at 6 weeks old. She has been through so many treatments including 19 intubations/ extubations, collapsed lungs, brain bleeds, and tracheostomy. She has also had about 23 surgeries and she now has a feeding tube. She is truly a miracle and has such a gravitating personality that we’re all so grateful for. She’s absolutely amazing. 
Ellah picked Disney World for her wish because she loves watching Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Ellah was so excited! From riding in a limo, to the airplane, and just being able to be in Florida at Disney World, was a blast! Even Ellah’s grandfathers joined on the trip! Ellah loves seeing the pictures of us being there. She gets so excited from the memories and all that we got to experience as a family.

Kayla (Vermont)
Kayla was born with a genetic mutation of the MECP2 gene associated with Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopment disorder impacting her muscular, neurological, digestive and skeletal systems.  Kayla’s love for hockey began at age 5.  Whether she is watching games at the rink or skat

ing herself, hockey brings Kayla immense joy.  From late September to March, Kayla spends every weekend cheering on her favorite collegiate or high school teams at the rink.  In 2017, skating with the USA National Women’s Hockey Team was Kayla’s Make-A-Wish experience.

For the past 6 years, Kayla has participated in the St. Albans Skating Association Special Hockey program, connecting her with others who share her passion for the game.  As Kayla says, “Playing hockey with other people with disabilities allows me to feel like I belong.”  Kayla looks forward to participating in the All-Star Hockey Classic Make-A-Wish game, interacting with players, giving high fives, riding the Zamboni, ans sharing her love of hockey.