The first child to be granted a wish at Disneyland Paris returned to this magical destination after 34 years. Anne-Lise went to Disneyland Paris as a 9-year-old kid in 1992. This was thanks to the newly established collaboration between Disneyland Paris and the French charity Petits Princes. This was the beginning of a legacy of wish-granting that continues today at Disneyland Paris.
Anne-Lise recalled the experience 34 years ago, saying, “I had the chance to light the Christmas tree at Disneyland Park… It was simply spectacular. More than magical, it was incredible.”
Three decades later, Anne-Lise’s return to where it began was an emotional visit that was full of memories and gratitude. Her story and visit are a powerful reminder of how much of an impact a wish can have on a child and their family. Disneyland Paris shared the following about Anne-Lise’s return:
Since that first visit, Disneyland Paris has helped grant more than 25,000 wishes for children from across Europe.
What began with Anne-Lise has grown into a long-standing commitment. In 2025 alone, the Disney Wish team helped make 1,147 wishes come true in collaboration with more than 45 European charities and foundations. Among them, nearly twenty Disney Wish stays gave children and their loved ones the chance to step away from everyday challenges and create memories that will stay with them long after their visit.
During her return to Disneyland Paris, Anne-Lise experienced several meaningful moments, including meeting around twenty Disney VoluntEARS at a breakfast hosted at Disney Newport Bay Club.
It was an opportunity to connect with these volunteer Cast Members, who dedicate their time to supporting seriously ill children and their families. By sharing her story, Anne-Lise offered a heartfelt reminder of the lasting difference a wish can make.
“When you walk through the Park gates, you stop thinking about the illness and everything you’re going through. You disconnect from the real world, and that brings relief. It gives you the strength to face everyday life again.”
She also shared a special message for the Disney VoluntEARS:
“You’re part of all of this. You bring the magic. You’re like little specks of pixie dust that help make these dreams come true, and you mean so much to the families you support.”
Anne-Lise then spent the rest of the day exploring the two Disney Parks, revisiting the places that shaped one of her happiest childhood memories. Joined by her brother, who had also been part of that first visit in 1992, she reflected on the emotions they experienced together and the memories that remain deeply rooted in their family’s story.
Her return also highlighted just how far this commitment has come since 1992. While a wish may last only a few hours or a few days, its impact can last a lifetime. Anne-Lise’s journey is a moving reminder that behind every Disney Wish stay is a child, a family, and memories that continue to inspire decades later.
By welcoming Anne-Lise back, Disneyland Paris celebrates not only the very first wish granted at the destination, but also more than three decades of supporting seriously ill children and their families. A story that continues—one wish at a time.
