Ireland Shane, an 11-year-old girl from Greeneville battling a congenital heart disease, had her wish granted by Make-A-Wish on the opening day of Dollywood with season passes for her family. Ireland was born with CHARGE syndrome, a rare disorder that has a high mortality rate for young children. Despite facing two open heart surgeries, feeding tube surgeries, and other procedures, Ireland remains a warrior with a positive attitude.
Her father, Donny Shane, expressed gratitude for the wish, seeing his daughter continue to fight with a smile every day. Ireland’s love for rides and rollercoasters inspired her wish, as she enjoys the thrill of the experience. Make-A-Wish East Tennessee President and CEO Garrett Wagley emphasized that Ireland’s wish will allow her to have fun and reconnect with her family of six throughout the Dollywood season.
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ unveiled a special Make-A-Wish East Tennessee-themed dessert to celebrate, with proceeds from the dessert in April going to the organization. April is World Wish Month, in honor of the first wish granted in 1980 to a 7-year-old battling Leukemia. The organization has granted over 600,000 wishes worldwide, providing hope and joy to children facing life-threatening illnesses.
Ireland’s wish represents a ray of light for her family, bringing them the opportunity to reconnect and have fun after enduring the medical journey together. The celebration of Ireland’s wish serves as a reminder of the power of hope, resilience, and the importance of moments of joy in the face of adversity.
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