Dalia’s Wish Makes Dreams Come True for the Del Forno Family

ENERGY IN ACTION - EPISODE 075

Nicole Del Forno is the mom of Gloria. Her family recently went on a wish trip at Give Kids the World Village and she joins us to share their experience.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

Can you tell us about your family and rare disease journey?

My daughter Gloria was born in 2018. At about 6 months old, we noticed she was reaching most milestones, but not babbling like a typical baby her age. At 9 months old, we were referred to a neurologist and then a geneticist. After genetic testing, we received a diagnosis of mitochondrial disease. Two years later with treatment, Gloria has progressed and we're fortunate that she's doing really well.

Your family was a recent recipient of Dalia's Wish program. Can you talk about your experience?

We were so excited to be granted the trip and couldn't imagine how wonderful it would be. Her school announced the trip to her with all of her friends present and it was such a cool experience. We spent a week at Give Kids the World Village and we didn't have to worry about a single thing. It is the most magical place and Gloria felt like a normal person there, everything was accessible, she had the freedom to be independent and everyone spoke her language. All of the volunteers work so hard to make kids feel special.

What was your favorite part of your family's wish trip?

My favorite moment of the whole experience was when Gloria went into the ice cream parlor and got her own ice cream and sprinkles because this was the first time that she was able to do something completely independent, without prompting or support.

What is your advice to other families granted a trip through Delia's Wish program?

There are Give Kids the World Village groups you can join on social media where you can get information about the village and everything else you need to know. If you come in the summer, be prepared for Florida's hot weather. Plan to spend a lot of time at the village because there is a lot to do there.

LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Give Kids the World Village

https://www.gktw.org/

Dalia’s Wish

https://www.mitoaction.org/wishes/

MitoSantas

https://www.mitoaction.org/mito-santas/

MitoAction Newsletter

https://www.mitoaction.org/newsletter-signup/

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Website

https://www.mitoaction.org/