Senior returns from Magical Mix Kids trip to Disney World

Magical Mix charity recently took nine families on a memorable trip to Disney World to meet Mickey Mouse, marking the 25th annual journey for the Magical Mix Kids. Since its founding in 1999, this local non-profit has provided over 350 children facing chronic or terminal illnesses with all-expenses-paid adventures.

Jim Coloff, founder of Magical Mix Kids and owner of radio station 93.5 The Mix, expressed his gratitude. “We are so fortunate to have a very generous Cedar Valley that believes these kids deserve to have their dream come true and visit Disney World. We’re thankful to be able to provide this trip to many sick kids from our area.”

Kathy Butler and her daughter Shelby, a senior at Cedar Falls High School, recently returned from their magical trip to Disney World with the Magical Mix Kids charity. Kathy, a devoted mom, has always dreamed of creating special memories with Shelby, who has down syndrome her whole life. This unforgettable experience allowed them to escape reality for a bit and enjoy the wonder of Disney together. Their hearts are filled with joy and gratitude for the opportunity to meet Mickey Mouse and experience the magic that only Disney can offer.

On the first day, they explored Magic Kingdom. Butler mentioned she was glad the group went on a “not so busy” day, as it would have been too stressful otherwise. She said, “I was surprised she wanted to ride the teacups, but it was fun and not scary.” On the second day, the group went to Epcot, starting off in Norway with Snow White, Aurora, Ariel and Shelby’s favorite princess, Belle. Butler said, “Epcot is my favorite park, and Shelby says it’s hers too. Although we were absolutely worn out from the 25,000+ steps we completed that day.”

During their stay, they were at the Port Orleans Riverside Resort. While Disney resorts offer many amenities and activities throughout, Shelby took her chances with trivia. Butler said, “This kid amazes me every day. Returning from Epcot, we went to the hotel’s gift shop in the lobby, and in the back there was a trivia board where Shelby got nine out of 10 answers correct.”

Hollywood Studios was a blast for them as well. They enjoyed watching a live show of “Under The Sea,” riding the attractions and wearing matching inside-out shirts along with a fuzzy white Mickey bucket hat. To make the trip feel memorable and special, Butler did a lot of planning, buying Disney-themed shirts and Stitch pajamas to wear during their visit. She also entered an auction at St. Patrick Parish to win a heavy-duty Mickey suitcase. Butler said, “I did this for Shelby because I knew she would love all this stuff, but to be honest, I’ve never been to Disney myself either, so it’s also for me.”

Shelby definitely has a sweet tooth; her favorite part of the trip was getting to eat sweets, especially ice cream. Shelby said, “I ate ice cream a couple of different times, and it was definitely different than eating it from home because they put colorful sprinkles and cookies on top to make a Mickey-shaped head.”

Butler added, “Shelby always had the biggest smile on her face while indulging in ice cream.”

Butler recalls a kind birthday gesture that they received unexpectedly. She said, “A young man who was working in the restaurant of the resort we were staying at struck up a conversation and asked if we were celebrating anything special. I mentioned that my birthday was yesterday. I didn’t get anything while walking around all day with a button that said ‘It’s my birthday,’ but he bought us two cupcakes as a late-night treat.”

Shelby’s second favorite thing about Disney was meeting and receiving hugs from characters such as Goofy, Daisy, Minnie and Donald.

Butler expressed her gratitude to all her friends and Magical Mix Kids for giving her and her daughter the opportunity to go on this once-in-a-lifetime trip. She thanked her friends for providing extra money to purchase special character meals and souvenirs. Butler said, “These kids really deserve a worry-free vacation with their families. Their parents also deserve time together with their sick kids, especially since many of these families have never traveled before due to health concerns for their child. We try to give them the peace of mind knowing we are there to help if a problem arises.”