Epperly Heights student has wish granted

Make-A-Wish surprises first-grader with trip to Disney World

By Jeff Harrison
Midwest City Beacon

A first grader at Epperly Heights Elementary was all smiles Friday morning during a school assembly.

Leo Romo, 6, learned that his wish to go to Disney World had been granted by Make-A-Wish Oklahoma. He and his family will travel to Florida next week to meet Micky Mouse and tour the Magic Kingdom.

“Thank you for making my wish,” he said. “I want to see Micky Mouse and go to Lego Land.”

Students, teachers, parents and Leo’s family helped celebrate the big announcement. Students from Del City High School, including Leo’s older brother Cristo, made signs celebrating Leo and cheered him on.

Leo was born with cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition that affects the lungs, immune system and digestive system.  He has been in and out of the hospital for much of his life. His medical team at OU Children’s Hospital referred him to the Make-A-Wish program.

Epperly Heights principal Kathy Kirk thanked Make-A-Wish for reaching out and showing love for Leo.

“It was a great experience, and we want to thank Make-A-Wish,” she said. “I want to thank Del City High School Leadership for making this extra special.”

Del City High School Leadership students enjoyed being part of the event. The group made signs and celebrated with Leo at the assembly.

Lucy Fusselman, development officer with Make-A-Wish Oklahoma, said they met Leo about a year ago and were struck by his positive spirit and love for his family

“What was so special about Leo is that he didn’t just want to go to Disney World, he wanted to go with all of his family,” Fusselman said.

Leo’s brother Cristo also suffers from cystic fibrosis and had his wish granted. Next month, he will be traveling to Hawaii with family.

“Leo’s trip is near my birthday, and my trip is near his birthday,” Cristo said. “I joked that my wish is his gift, and his wish is my gift.”

Leo’s sister Maria was thrilled to see their joy.

“Seeing them have something amazing happen to them after everything they went through is beautiful,” she said. “Since they were born, they’ve spent months in the hospital and some holidays too.”

Make-A-Wish Oklahoma grants wishes for kids in Oklahoma that are facing a critical illness. Make-A-Wish Oklahoma grants wishes for Oklahoma kids in all 77 counties.  Last fiscal year they granted 192 wishes. This year’s goal is to grant over 200 wishes. The organization relies on community support and encourages people to donate to their cause.

“We believe a wish renews hope, uplifts spirits and encourages the belief in the impossible,” said Fusselman. “Today at Epperly Heights, the students were a part of something so magical. Although they did not raise the funds for the wish, they made it extra magical by being present and a part of it.  A wish forever transforms the lives of children, their families and entire communities. A wish unites neighbors, friends and entire communities in life changing experiences.”