Cinderella
On Paige’s birthday, Penn finally got to meet Cinderella. What a magical experience for both girls. I didn’t think it was going to happen but it did. When we were granted our Make-a-Wish trip, we were advised, the Disney Princesses may not be having 1-on-1 meet and greets due to COVID. They were logistically figuring out how to organize these visits with the public.
However, when we got to Magic Kingdom, we saw signs at the castle, that we could meet the following princesses: Princess Tiana, Rapunzel, Princess Elena, and of course Cinderella.
Penn also loved Jacques, Gus and Perla.
Waiting patiently for Penn to meet Cinderella. So thankful for the experience, and the lightning lane!
Penn’s health significantly declined throughout the month of May. Due to her medications and her tumours growing, she preferred to be in a stroller - it was difficult for her to walk. She stayed in her stroller when she met Princess Tiana, Rapunzel, and Princess Elena. But when she saw Cinderella she told Sheldon, “please carry me, when I meet Cinderella.” It was the first and only time, throughout our entire trip, she requested to be taken out of her stroller. When she met Cinderella, Penn reached out and they held hands. I didn’t realize this was happening, until I looked at Nicole who was videotaping. She was crying uncontrollably, and then I started to cry. Cinderella even asked Nicole, “do you need a hug your majesty?”
What an incredible moment for Penn, to reach out and hold Cinderella’s hand, as she completed her last bucket list item. Throughout all of her pain, she did it. To me, this is what defines bravery - when you’re faced with the unimaginable. When you’re afraid and you keep on going with what you need to do despite your circumstances. I don’t know where Penn got her bravery and her strength from, but I am truly honoured to be her mom, and to have witnessed her meeting Cinderella, on Paige’s seventh birthday.
When Penn met Cinderella.
Princess Elena of Avalor was the last princess Paige and Penn met. Our girls rarely watch TV so they had no idea who she was. Penn was not really interested, until Princess Elena conversed with Penn about her foxes (Dox, Mox, and Fred). Princess Elena also mention she too has a fox (a spirit animal) named Zuzu. Once again, our trip perfectly aligned - what are the chances of Penn meeting a Princess who also has a fox? Penn was interested in hearing what Princess Elena had to say after learning about Zuzu.
On the flight back to Calgary, while Penn was laying down on my lap, I cried. During take off, while in the air, and when we landed. This was the last trip as a family of four. Penn’s last airplane ride. Penn’s last vacation. But it was so worth it. To see her smile and to witness all of her accomplishments.
But there was plenty to look forward to when we got back home to Calgary - Paige and Penn’s treasure island birthday party. Our first big family event since COVID started.