2016 ISSUE
bertsbigadventure.org
WINNER
2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015 APEX Awards
Award of Excellence
2013, 2014 & 2015 Communicator Awards
Award of Excellence Award of Distinction
A Bert's Big Adventure Publication
SPOTLIGHT: STAR POWER PG. 16
2016
OUR
KIDS!
TRIP SCRAPBOOK PG. 76
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stablished in 2002, Bert’s Big Adventure is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a magical, allexpenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families. To qualify for Bert’s Big Adventure, children must be between the ages of 5 and 12, live in The Bert Show radio listening area, prove financial need and have never been to Walt Disney World®. Following the annual trip, Bert’s Big Adventure provides year-round support through initiatives such as the Reunion Adventures, the Fairy Godparent volunteer program and additional charitable services. The trip and programs create a community of families that establish lasting friendships with others facing similar challenges.
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
CONTENTS OUR STAR STEWARDS
05 Seth 09
Leslie Jasper, GA
Charleston, SC
13 William 17 James
Dawsonville, GA
jersey mike’s subs ............................................8 moe’s southwest grill...................................15 audi atlanta..........................................................23 dentistry for children/family orthodontics..31
OUR MAGIC MAKERS
Acworth, GA
21 Tosh 25
Marley
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta, GA
expressjet..........................................................39 renaissance concourse ...............................47 carter’s charitable foundation........................55 troika studio .....................................................61 atlanta moon ride ..........................................62 tin lizzy's ............................................................65 avalon ..................................................................66
F E AT U R E S :
29 Raynel 33
Ashlynn
LaGrange, GA
Powder Springs, GA
37 Nicholas 41 Kylin
wednesday's welcome.................................... 11 send-off............................................................... 19 big reveals........................................................... 27 trip events........................................................... 35 pirate makeovers.............................................. 40 by the numbers................................................. 43 reunion adventures.......................................... 48 fairy godparents................................................ 59 scrapbook............................................................ 76
Atlanta, GA
Rome, GA
45 Kyle 49
Autumn
Atlanta, GA
SPOTLIGHTS:
star power........................................................... 16 well wishes.......................................................... 24 the domino effect............................................ 51
Q&A:
Duluth, GA
53 Mickey 03
Hunter
volunteer perspective..................................... 32 then & now: blackburns/robersons........... 56 the bert show's perspective......................... 57 parents' perspectives......................................... 63
Rising Sun, IN
Orlando, FL
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Through Bert’s Big Adventure’s organic growth, we have become an organization of connections for families of the special needs community who otherwise feel alone.
While the five-day journey to Walt Disney World® will always be at our core, we have evolved into an organization that focuses on togetherness, not escape.
-STACEY WEISS, FOUNDER
-BERT WEISS, FOUNDER
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
_C=0, M=0, Y=95, K=0 • if used as spot color, match to pantone 102U or pantone 102C
_reversed out version
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_R=19, G=181, B= 234 • HEX#13B5EA
_R=253, G=188, B=95 • HEX#FDBCSF
Bert Weiss Founder
Bert Stacey
Stacey Weiss _greyscale version Founder & Chairman of the Board
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_R=255, G=242, B=3 • HEX#FFF203
Molly Parrish-Darby Executive Director Bobby Kelly Development Director
Molly Bobby
Sarah Rossetti Program Director Sheridan Smith Program Coordinator Cassie Young Social Media Manager
magical moments
Sarah Sheridan
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Stacey Weiss Creative Director Troika Studio/Michael Birchall Copy Editors Molly Parrish-Darby Margo Thomas Cassie Young
Michael Anne
Graphic Designer Troika Studio/Anne Nava Photographers DASH Photography/Amanda Coker dashphotography.com Monarch Studio/Zach Thomas themonarchstudio.com Sarah Esther Photography sarahesther.com Cassandra Young Photography cassandra-young.com Contributing Writer David Crawford
Amanda Zach
Sarah Cassie
Digital Director Troika Studio/Seth Ferreira P.O. Box 420917, Atlanta, GA 30342 • 678.929.8474 BertsBigAdventure.org All printing and distribution of Magical Moments magazine donated by:
ProGraphics Communications, LLC 5664 New Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30341 • 678.597.1050 PGC-ATL.com
David Seth 4
Leslie Barnett, by david crawford
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or 7-year-old Leslie Barnett, Bert’s Big Adventure started early. When her mom mentioned that Leslie loved cheering for her big brothers in sports, radio host Bert Weiss recognized his cue as Atlanta’s expert dream weaver. Then, at the Bert’s Big Adventure send-off, the Atlanta Hawks cheerleaders surprised Leslie with the opportunity of a lifetime: to join their squad on the court during a live NBA game! Born with a Cystic Hygroma, a rare disease characterized by cyst-like lymphatic lesions, Leslie earned her cheerleading stripes by keeping a smile on her face in lieu of a very challenging treatment schedule. After endless surgeries and chemotherapy injections, her mom said specialists didn’t know the next step. “They told us the only thing left to do is chemotherapy, but that makes her sick. So we are currently at a stop in treatment. It has always been my dream to let Leslie travel so that she can see all the beautiful things in life, but her medical issues always make that impossible.” Enter Bert and his team of magic makers at Bert’s Big Adventure, dedicated to helping little kids like Leslie do just that. After being told she’d get to be an official NBA cheerleader, Leslie and her family embarked on the annual VIP trip to Walt Disney World®, 'The Place Where Dreams Come True!' Her favorite part was meeting “Frozen’s” Princess Elsa. She also loved hanging out with all her new friends at the surprise, characterfilled dance party on Saturday night, an event that moved her mom to tears. “Every child was smiling and having the time of their life. I watched my kids come out of their shells at that party. I think I cried the entire night trying to believe this was really real and it wasn’t all a dream.”
WHERE
Dreams
COME TRUE
“Every child was smiling and having the time of their life. I watched my kids come out of their shells at that party.” – Amy, Leslie’s mom
Visit www.bertsbigadventure.org to see more on Leslie's performance as an official NBA cheerleader!
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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thank you STAR STEWARDS Audi Atlanta Dentistry for Children/ Family Orthodontics Jersey Mike’s Subs Moe’s Southwest Grill MAGIC MAKERS Atlanta Moon Ride Atlanta Steeplechase Carter’s Charitable Foundation ExpressJet ProGraphics Renaissance Concourse Tin Lizzy’s Cantina Troika Studio
WISH GRANTERS Allgood Pest Solutions Balloonacy Cassandra Young Photography Cooper Global Dash Photography Dunkin’ Donuts Häagen-Dazs Mattress Firm Sarah Esther Photography Taste of Speed The Gilbert House
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DREAM BUILDERS Atlanta Hawks Avalon Fashion Show Balance Salon Broadway in Atlanta Children’s Museum of Atlanta Fur Bus G2G Collection Jocoba Marketing Jump Ahead Horse Benefit Kevin and Cindy Powers LAT Apparel
DREAM BUILDERS Monarch Studio Phipps Plaza Physicians' Alliance Piedmont Park Conservatory PomumPro Punchline Comedy Club Q100 Santa at Phipps Sutherland Taste of Atlanta
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
SPECIAL THANKS 33 Events 5 Paces Inn Crane Nuclear Davio’s Primrose School of Suwannee West Pure Barre Vinings Solar Dimensions Speedway Children’s Charities The Color Spot Yardi
JERSEY MIKE'S SUBS
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very March, Jersey Mike’s Subs kicks off its nationwide Month Of Giving. The annual fundraiser represents much more about the popular sub chain than just the millions of dollars raised each year. The commitment from nearly 1,500 nationwide franchises to actively support a local cause starts at the top. “Giving back to the local communities around our stores is part of the Jersey Mike’s culture,” explains Jeff Sponsler, the sub chain’s Atlanta area developer and franchisee. “Founder and CEO Peter Cancro teaches each and every one of us that from the first day we interview with the company.” When it comes to the 32 Jersey Mike’s locations throughout metro Atlanta and Columbus, giving back means raising record-breaking amounts of money for Bert’s Big Adventure during the Month of Giving.
Throughout March, customers are encouraged to make a donation to Bert’s Big Adventure. The month culminates in the Day of Giving, in which 100 percent of sales for all 32 locations are donated to Bert’s Big Adventure. For seven years now, Sponsler and his stores have broken their own record during the annual Month Of Giving. In 2013, they raised $82,000. In 2014, it was more than $84,000 and in 2015, they brought in $100,000! Sponsler felt confident that trend will continue and it certainly did in 2016 when the annual fundraiser brought in $106,000 for Bert’s Big Adventure. "We expect to beat it again next year! It will be our eighth year and we've increased our donation every year!"
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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Seth Boozer,
by david crawford
D
octors diagnosed Seth Boozer with a primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) before he turned 2 years old. At eight centimeters wide, the brain tumor forced him into four months of inpatient chemotherapy followed by 30 doses of proton radiation. After six more months of oral chemo at home, Seth continued to go back every few months for regular MRIs and spinal taps. His mom, Colleen, was ecstatic to receive a surprise phone call from Bert Weiss with the news they were going to Walt Disney World® with Bert’s Big Adventure! “We were just so excited to spend time together as a family without worrying about all the daily stress factors: to be able to let loose and enjoy us.” Seth and his family went on the right trip to “let loose.” They quickly discovered that Bert’s Big Adventure translated in Walt Disney World to “Hakuna Matata” - the phrase made famous in “The Lion King” for meaning “no worries.” “Seth was so much fun to watch. Hearing his laughter made my days brighter!” His mom said he even took Bert’s Big Adventure’s “Hakuna Matata” spirit to heart by tackling his fear of roller coasters. “I am so proud of him. Before the trip he told us he wouldn’t ride roller coasters. When we got there, he was brave enough to try every one he could at least one time. His favorite was Space Mountain!” Colleen said the family was trying to bottle up some of the magic they experienced on Bert’s Big Adventure to bring some home. “Bert’s Big Adventure gave our family memories we couldn't have otherwise made, but more importantly the reminder that it's OK to make and enjoy them ourselves.”
Hakuna Matata
“Seth was so much fun to watch. Hearing his laughter made my days brighter!” – Colleen, Seth’s mom
“Hakuna Matata...What a wonderful phrase... Hakuna Matata...Ain’t no passing craze!”
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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Hunter is one of the first to hit the dance floor at the welcome party!
New VIPs, Kylin and Ashlynn, sing karaoke at the dance party.
Along with his dad Raymond, Raynel enjoys the candy buffet.
Tasha Mize, owner of Rob The King Atlanta, gives out flower crowns to all the VIPs.
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Kylin asks Luna how to be a tooth fairy when she grows up.
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Stacey & VIP Nick say cheese!
wednesday's welcome After receiving one of Bert’s Big Adventure’s exclusive keys to Walt Disney World® and then getting picked up in a Cooper Global private limousine, the new VIPs and their families arrive to a red carpet bash at The Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel. The Wednesday Welcome party sets the tone for the week with Jersey Mike’s Subs, Häagen-Dazs, a DJ dance party and surprises galore. The festivities give everyone a chance to get to know their new Bert’s Big Adventure family before the big trip.
New VIP William asks for the biggest ice cream Bert’s Big Adventure has to offer.
The red carpet arrival through the eyes of a Bert’s Big Adventure VIP!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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James Caporal,
by david crawford
M
eet Captain Simon Bad Bones, legendary swashbuckling pirate of the Seven Seas. Hailing from the Atlantic seaboard near the port of Walt Disney World®, Captain Bad Bones may be better recognized here as 2016 Bert’s Big Adventure VIP James Caporal. James was only 2 years old when diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). When his treatment started, his little body was in kidney failure with no healthy blood cells. His mother, Jessica, said James has endured it all: “Dialysis, blood and platelet transfusions, two blood clot shots per day for two years, long hospital stays, chemotherapy, radiation—you name it. James currently takes daily chemo pills and steroids, along with several other medications. Plus, once a month, he goes to Children’s for IV chemo.” After a particularly grueling week of treatment, Bert Weiss called with the news that James and the Caporal family were selected to join the Bert’s Big Adventure family. It’s hard to think of anyone more deserving than a 5 year old that has been fighting cancer for three years, a fact that Jessica said caused “the little things” to be her favorite part of this VIP trip. “Bert’s Big Adventure brought our family together and gave us some much needed downtime to relax. It was great to just have fun together. James is scheduled to have treatments through December 2016, so watching him and his sisters get to be kids was amazing. He loved becoming a pirate!” On his first day in the Magic Kingdom, James entered The Pirate’s League, a parlor that tranforms children into pirates. He received a proper pirate name by partaking in a secret tradition that involves dice, treasure chests, and spinning a big boat wheel as fast as you can. One good turn of the wheel and James finally forgot about all those remaining treatments for a few days, becoming famed Seven Seas pirate Captain Simon Bad Bones!
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A PIRATE’S
Life
“Watching him and his sisters get to be kids was amazing. He loved becoming a pirate!” – Jessica, James’ mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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MOE'S SOUTHWEST GRILL
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ounded in December of 2000 in Atlanta, Moe’s Southwest Grill now has over 600 locations in the United States and abroad. Mark Monroe, president of Atlanta-area Moe’s franchisee Sterling Restaurants, said the idea to partner with Bert’s Big Adventure just made sense. “Most of us involved are longtime Atlanta residents as well as longtime listeners of The Bert Show. Throughout the year we would hear them talking about Bert’s Big Adventure on the air and the impact it was having on families. We got together and made the decision that it was the perfect fit for us.” Mark and his team started their “Moe’s Wednesdays” campaign. Donating 10 percent of sales on each Wednesday in June has brought in more than $250,000 since they began the campaign. In 2015, Moe’s raised over $100,000 for Bert’s Big Adventure! After participating in Bert’s Big Adventure’s magical send-off party and actually meeting some of the families, Mark said he and his Moe’s crew were in for the long haul.
by anna bentley
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Spotlight
Daya and the cast of The Bert Show hang out after an incredible performance of her new single “Hide Away.”
Star POWER CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT:
DAYA by david crawford
O
n their first night in Walt Disney World®, the Bert’s Big Adventure families received a one-of-a-kind, private, live performance by Artbeatz Platinum Recording Artist, Daya. The 17-year-old singer and songwriter took time away from touring across the country to perform for the families, playing several songs off of her latest EP including her new single “Hide Away” in front of The Living Seas Salon’s 5.7-million-gallon
aquarium. With the place roped off with velvet and a chef-stationed buffet line inside, it all added up to the perfect evening of dinner and dancing to kick off the trip. The Bert’s Big Adventure families may not have realized at the time just how VIP they were: only weeks before the trip, "Hide Away" climbed into the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and iTunes charts. Daya also played the song on NBC’s legendary "Today" show! Thanks, Daya!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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William Davis, by david crawford
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egan Genjian noticed that William, her student with Down Syndrome, oftentimes showed up to school late and hungry. She started paying closer attention and noticed more things, like the fact that he sometimes came in looking dirty and didn’t always have on the correct clothes. Lucky for William, Megan was no ordinary 23-year-old teacher. “It amazed me that he was 6 years old with Down Syndrome, had that kind of life and wasn’t depressed. He has such a beautiful soul, and that’s what motivated me to get involved.” Since this was only a case of neglect as opposed to outright abuse, authorities told Megan there was nothing they could do. She found this unacceptable and vowed to find a way to get William everything he deserved. She reached out to his birth mother, a woman with four other children. William’s mother eventually agreed to let him stay with Megan during the weeks of his summer camp. This built the bridge of trust between William’s mom and Megan that led to Megan adopting him, with his mom’s consent. Megan changed the trajectory of young William’s life, though she said it was he who did the same for her. “It is because of William that I know the true feeling of unconditional love. He taught me that our true purpose in life is to lift each other up and offer support and love with no limitations or exclusivity.” Everyone on Bert’s Big Adventure’s annual trip to Walt Disney World® felt William’s unique ability to love others without judgment—a characteristic common in those with Down Syndrome—and quickly discovered that a run-and-jump hug could happen at a moment’s notice. Megan explained that’s simply life with William. “I mean in no way, shape or form did I see this coming! You can plan whatever you want ahead of time for your life, but you have to be flexible and understand that life is going to throw things at you.”
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LOVE
Unconditionally
“It is because of William that I know the true feeling of unconditional love.” – Megan, William’s mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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| send-off |
The morning Bert’s Big Adventure’s journey to Walt Disney World® begins, The Bert Show hosts a live broadcast from the Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel to offer listeners a glimpse inside the magic. Sponsors, partners and volunteers come help kick off this once-in-a-lifetime trip for some very deserving families.
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Big Photo: An excited group of volunteers take on the roles of Disney characters and welcome the Bert's Big Adventure VIPs to their private plane ride to Walt Disney World, courtesy of ExpressJet. Balloonacy, Victoria Kramer Massage, Dentistry for Children, Moe's Southwest Grill, Balance Salon, the 501st Legion and many more joined these characters to help make the sendoff a monumental success.
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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Marley Eschoe,
THREE by david crawford
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ark and Kiyomi Eschoe always felt like their family was complete with their three children: Lyric, Marley and Tosh. As long as they were together, they didn’t worry about a thing. Kiyomi explained that she couldn’t imagine having any of the three without the others. “It is almost as if they all belong to each other more than they belong to us.” It may have something to do with the unique challenges they’ve faced. Marley, 11 years old and the middle child, displayed developmental delays shortly after birth. As she got older, she had seemingly “caught up” and reached the same milestones as her peers. It all roared to a screeching halt when she suffered her first stroke after she turned 7. Doctors diagnosed Marley with lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, aneurysms and an enlarged heart. Confined to her wheelchair from that point on, the strokes also continued regularly. Even Bert’s Big Adventure proved to be tough. She was sick most the the trip, only really feeling better on the last day. Marley’s selfless nature got the best of her. She couldn’t ride the rides and felt ill, but never asked to go back to the room. Instead Marley insisted on experiencing everything Walt Disney World® had to offer with her brother and sister, something not lost on their mom. “The bond those three share is one of pure love. It amazes me by each moment.” Lyric, 14, and Tosh, 9, managed to get Marley out on the floor during the surprise Disney Dance Party, even doing the Macarena with everyone’s favorites characters. The scene provided a soothing portrait for Mark and Kiyomi to take in. Any time they had their three little birds together, they knew that every little thing was gonna be alright.
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Little Birds
“The bond those three share is one of pure love. It amazes me by each moment.” – Kiyomi, Marley’s mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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AUDI ATLANTA
JIM ELLIS AUDI ATLANTA
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udi Atlanta, once again, stepped up in a big way in 2015 by donating it’s hottest new vehicle, the 2016 Audi TT, to Bert’s Big Adventure. The donation allowed Bert’s Big Adventure to host its second annual Audi raffle. Audi Atlanta’s generous donation resulted in $120,000 raised for the organization through the sale of 1,200 tickets. But the good deeds of Audi don’t stop there. Early this year, the Audi employees learned that 2016 Bert’s Big Adventure kid Autumn and her mom Ekuwa did not have a reliable means of transportation to get to and from treatments. Bert Weiss explained, “Ekuwa had been without a car for quite some time and had been using public transportation to take her 12-year-old daughter, Autumn, to receive chemotherapy treatments as she battled lymphoblastic lymphoma. After hearing about their situation, the employees of Audi Atlanta
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took their commitment to the charity to the next level by collecting individual donations from other employees, friends and family. They successfully raised $14,000 amongst their peers in order to purchase a reliable car for Ekuwa and Autumn!” Vice President and General Manager Tracie Maloney said going the extra mile was a no-brainer, “All of us at Audi Atlanta have been incredibly blessed by our partnership with Bert’s Big Adventure. We are so delighted to help such a deserving family get back on their feet during this difficult time.” And then, Tracie and the Jim Ellis crew managed to one-up themselves, once again: “We are also happy to announce that Ekuwa has officially become a member of the Audi Atlanta team! She has accepted a position that will allow her to work and also the flexibility she needs to take care of Autumn.”
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Spotlight
Well Wishes From
2015
Bert’s Big Adventure Mom
Mechelle Eastwood To The 2016 Families...
B
eing selected to be a part of the Bert’s Big Adventure family is a gift that will impact your lives far beyond the amazing, nonstop, whirlwind adventure to Disney World upon which you are about to embark. Not to minimize the trip—it is phenomenal. It’s all that you can imagine and more. Your memories will last a lifetime. As parents of two 2015 Bert’s Big Adventure kids—one with a brain tumor and one with Down Syndrome—the best advice we can give the 2016 families is fairly simple: try to relax and enjoy the adventure of someone else being in control for a few days. It’s a daunting task for some—including me—but essential to truly receiving the full blessing you’ve just been given. Beyond experiencing the magical wonders of Disney, your trip affords you the rare opportunity to spend time getting to know some of the bravest, most inspiring children you will meet. You not only get to revel in the joy of your child as the trip unfolds before their eyes, but all of the other children as well. It’s truly a rare and beautiful experience. As a family, we lead a blessed life in that we have a strong network that love and support our children. Nonetheless, I was still humbled beyond words to watch the interaction of the remarkable Bert’s Big Adventure staff and volunteers with each of the kids on our trip. Pure, unadulterated love and acceptance was poured out on every child. Each one was made to feel amazing and special and treasured by all. Likewise, your children will be celebrated not because of their differences or in spite of their differences. Just celebrated as the wonderful, beautiful children they are. So simple, yet so astounding. The most wonderful part is that this becomes a relationship that you will have for years to come. Bert’s Big Adventure makes an investment into your child’s life. There are several reunion events each year where you’ll be able to reconnect with all of the people who have touched your lives on this adventure. You will also be able to meet the children and families from previous adventures. And if your child has to be admitted to the hospital, someone from Bert’s Big Adventure will make sure to visit and continue to make them feel special. I could continue to list all of the ways in which your lives will be touched by this experience, but in order for you to truly understand, you’ll have to experience the love first hand. It’s a Bert’s Big Adventure thing.
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Tosh Eschoe,
IT UP
Stir
“In that one moment, he worked through some extreme sensory challenges and faced all the things that he is afraid of!” – Kiyomi, Tosh’s mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
by david crawford
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hen Tosh Eschoe and his sister, Marley, were selected as Bert’s Big Adventure VIPs, they received a special clock counting down the days until the big trip. Tosh checked it every day, knowing that when the clock hit 'zero' it would be time to step outside of his comfort zone. Even though Tosh wasn't sure how to express his fears, his family knew he was scared. Just 3 years old when doctors diagnosed him with autism, 9-year-old Tosh still finds most social and sensory situations to be scary. Even though he was skeptical of the loud, characterfilled party bus that Bert’s Big Adventure brought to surprise them with their keys to Walt Disney World®, Tosh checked that countdown clock daily. Even still, his mom said it took him some time to warm up to the park. “On the first day, if we walked by a sign that said ‘Theater’ Tosh would yell ‘I don’t wanna go to the theater!” While Tosh struggled on day one— hey, no one said autism was easy—he remembered the countdown clock back home and forged ahead. The rest of the trip opened up a side of Tosh rarely seen by his family. “Tosh is an intelligent, witty and funny kid who, because of his autism, never gets invited to parties and activities that other little boys do. But then he meets a stranger like Brian Moote from The Bert Show who just got him.” Brian and Tosh were fast new friends, even buddying their way through the parks for an entire day. They rode everything from the classic monorail to the thrill rides. Tosh even tried to be like his new best bud Brian by bum rushing the stage at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue, which completely surprised his mom. “In that one moment, he worked through some extreme sensory challenges and faced all the things that he is afraid of!”
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| big reveals |
Former Atlanta Hawks guard, Mike “Stinger” Glenn, tells VIP Raynel he’s joining the team!
Bert’s Big Adventure and its team of dream weavers specialize in making dreams come true. The organization does its best to make very special surprises happen for some of the families each year. Whether it’s meeting an idol, living out a dream job, or even getting a new car, the Big Reveals always lead to bigger smiles.
The Atlanta Hawks cheerleading team welcome their newest member, Bert’s Big Adventure VIP Leslie, to the squad!
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
VIP Autumn and her mom, Ekuwa, still can’t believe the employees of Audi Atlanta raised money and bought them a new car!
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Ashlynn Geringer,
CELEBRITY
Smile “We felt like the most important people ever to walk through Walt Disney World®— like celebrities or something!” – Rebecca, Ashlynn's mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
by david crawford
W
hen Ashlynn Geringer started getting blood blisters in her mouth and bruising on her body, her mom, Rebecca, thought it was a virus and took her to the emergency room. The blood work results proved to be a mother’s worst nightmare: Ashlynn had cancer. Her treatment process for leukemia was intense and frightening. “The thought of injecting poison into my daughter was hard for me. At just 3 years old, her strength and willpower to never give up rocked cancer’s world.” During Ashlynn’s chemotherapy, Rebecca suffered four major heart attacks less than a week after giving birth to another baby girl. Double bypass open-heart surgery fixed the pregnancy-related cardiac issue, but not before Rebecca was declared clinically dead on the operating table twice during the procedure. “I was laying in bed resting after it all when a friend posted on Facebook that it was the last day to apply for Bert’s Big Adventure. I knew after everything Ashlynn had been through she deserved this trip. She deserved to be a kid.” The Geringer family made sure that happened, enjoying every VIP minute of their special vacation. “We felt like the most important people ever to walk through Walt Disney World® — like celebrities or something!” It didn’t hurt that they spent one of their days with Bert’s Big Adventure founder Stacey Weiss. After Ashlynn and her sister went to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique to become Princesses Anna and Elsa, Stacey made sure the royal treatment never stopped by treating the girls to an epic shopping spree in the Magic Kingdom. “I watched leukemia take my daughter’s ability to be a kid for more than two and a half years; I’d never seen such huge smiles on her face before. My baby actually got to enjoy being a kid again on Bert’s Big Adventure.” Now 5, Ashlynn has plenty of reason to keep sporting that newfound grin: she recently received the news that she is cancer-free!
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DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILY ORTHODONTICS
T
he philosophy of Dentistry for Children and Family Orthodontics of offering an environment 'where smiles grow,' perfectly aligns with the mission of Bert’s Big Adventure. Marketing Director Allison Howard says, “Between donating braces for each Bert’s Big Adventure child the last three years, treating the families to a visit at Zoo Atlanta and sponsoring the 2015 Fall Reunion at the Georgia Aquarium, we have been lucky enough to watch the Bert’s Big Adventure kids grow their smiles, too!” Dentistry For Children raises money for Bert’s Big Adventure through Project Smile, a unique program encouraging patients to share in the philanthropy. Every time someone needs a retainer, Dentistry For
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Children pays for a replacement and then asks the patient to donate to Bert’s Big Adventure. This payit-forward program has raised more than $165,000, though Allison says their involvement with Bert’s Big Adventure comes down to much more than a HUGE donation. “The Bert’s Big Adventure kids are our heroes! We’re grateful to do anything we can to make their lives a little brighter because we care so much about children. That’s what we do—that’s what we’re here for. It’s a perfect match.” Now with nearly 30 locations in the Atlanta area, Dentistry for Children and Family Orthodontics has an office in your neighborhood!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
VOLUNTEER PERSPECTIVE
VICTORIA KRAMER: THE LUCKY ONE by david crawford
Victoria Kramer owns her own massage therapy business that often requires her to travel across the state for her clientele, but considers her role as a founding Fairy Godparent volunteer to be a priority. Here, we ask Victoria about her work with Bert’s Big Adventure.
How long have you been involved with Bert’s Big Adventure?
your time as a Fairy Godparent volunteer?
I’m one of the original lucky 13 volunteers chosen to be a Fairy Godparent volunteer in conjunction with Carter’s becoming a major sponsor. I became (Bert's Big Adventure Founder) Stacey's massage therapist back in 2008. One day during her massage, Stacey told me about the Fairy Godparent program they were starting. She thought I’d be a perfect fit and said I should apply. The rest is history!
These families and kids are so courageous, strong and resilient. I learn so much from each and every one of them. Feeling the love they give back is something that I hold dear to my heart and I find myself pulling strength from it when going through difficult times. I put all I can into my visits, but I always leave having gotten so much more.
What have you learned from
It’s family. I think one of the greatest
Why stay involved with Bert’s Big Adventure all this time?
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
perks of Bert’s Big Adventure is that once you are brought into our family, you are in for life!
Any plans in your future as a Fairy Godparent volunteer? Well, at the send-off party each year I do chair massages for everyone! I plan to continue doing it as long as they'll have me! I am truly blessed to be part of such a fabulous organization and will help in whatever capacity Bert’s Big Adventure needs me. As I said, I am the lucky one here. This is the most rewarding thing I have ever done.
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Raynel Granell-Lopez, by david crawford
R
aynel Granell-Lopez's long road to Bert's Big Adventure began when he was just 4-years-old in a string of Puerto Rican hospitals. Raynel was misdiagnosed with an ear infection. Within 48 hours, he was vomiting and couldn’t get out of bed. After three more hospitals, Raynel was put into an induced coma. “I couldn’t believe it! Since Raynel was eating and breathing again they said they had done everything they could and discharged him back to us. He was still in a coma!” Raymond’s sister lived in Atlanta and he quickly made arrangements to go there with Raynel to try to save his son. They found a local intensive rehabilitation facility for kids like Raynel who had sustained injuries as a result of bacterial meningitis. The breakthrough came when Raymond noticed his son’s eyes follow him around the room. “After being in a coma and fighting between life and death, the prayers of a lot of people from a lot of places asking for a miracle were answered when Raynel survived.” There were differences. Raynel used to attend preschool, run through the house and go to the backyard to run. Now he couldn’t breath without a trach tube, couldn’t walk and was mostly deaf. All reasons why Raymond was ecstatic when Bert’s Big Adventure picked Raynel, 11 years old, to be one of its VIPs in 2016. "This unforgettable trip was made for kids like Raynel where they can enjoy surprises and not worry. Everyone made us feel like we are not alone. We are truly grateful to be part of the precious Bert’s Big Adventure family!” Raynel even got a bonus surprise when the Atlanta Hawks surprised him live on The Bert Show. The Hawks promised to make him an official member of the team, give him a custom wheelchair made for sports and let him break it in on an NBA court!
THE
Miracle “We are truly grateful to be part of the precious Bert’s Big Adventure family!” – Raymond, Raynel’s dad
Visit www.bertsbigadventure.org to see more on Raynel's experience with the Atlanta Hawks.
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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Goofy moves back the curtain to reveal the surprise dance party!
Over at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Princess Kylin sees herself for the first time and Olaf starts melting.
Staffer Natalie and VIP Ashlynn dance together at a character-filled, dance party.
Daya performs her new single “Hide Away” after a private VIP dinner at The Living Seas Salon.
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
New Ohana get acquainted during a private breakfast buffet at the Polynesian Resort’s Luau Cove.
VIP William jumps on stage and joins the show at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue!
| trip events | Some of the best moments on Bert’s Big Adventure’s annual trip to Walt Disney World® happen during private events that allow all of the families to get to know each other. From luau breakfasts and character-filled dance parties to safari rides and fireworks, these VIP events create magical memories and lasting friendships for everyone on the trip.
Donald and Daisy Duck ask for a picture with Ashlynn and Kailynn after breakfast in the Magic Kingdom.
Bottom Left: Private, waterfront dessert party with a primo view of Epcot’s legendary Illuminations fireworks show.
VIPs look inside The Living Sea Salon’s 5.7-million-gallon aquarium after a private dinner and find Scuba Mickey!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Kylin Green,
THE CHRISTMAS
Wish
“We were speechless at first and then began to shed tears of joy knowing that Bert’s Big Adventure would make Kylin’s Christmas wish come true!.” –Byron, Kylin’s dad
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
by david crawford
W
hen asked what she wants to be when she grows up, 5-year-old Kylin Green said “I want to be a doctor dressed in a princess costume with a wand to make everyone better.” Her dad, Byron, explained his daughter’s lofty, kind-hearted goal probably stems from having spent much of her young life inside hospitals. Kylin has received more than 85 blood transfusions, over a hundred IVs, open-heart surgery and reconstructive hand surgery – all as a result of having Diamond Blackfan Anemia. To endure her quality of life, Kylin is currently followed by cardiology, endocrinology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, and hematology.” The Green’s first heard of Bert’s Big Adventure from a church friend who thought Kylin would be a perfect VIP. They applied and over the holidays received the call. “We were speechless at first and then began to shed tears of joy knowing that Bert’s Big Adventure would make Kylin’s Christmas wish come true!” Kylin wished to make Walt Disney World® the place where all her dreams would come true. She wanted to dress up like her favorite Disney princess, Elsa from Frozen, and make new friends running through the park day and night. She wished to show her younger brother, Brayden, who has Down syndrome that the Magic Kingdom was a place for no worries and could be fun for him, too. She wanted to become BFFs with The Bert Show’s Kristin Klingshirn and give Dr. Tom a makeover on the bus. After that Christmas phone call to the Green’s, each passing day meant Kylin was that much closer to all her Disney dreams becoming a reality. "We all woke up every morning and rushed to the countdown clock to make sure we were one day closer to Kylin’s wish!”
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EXPRESSJET
E
xpressJet rolls out the red carpet for Bert’s Big Adventure’s VIP kids each year by providing an exclusive private jet to and from Walt Disney World®. New Chief Operating Officer Terry Vais says the heart of this long-running partnership permeates everything at the Atlanta-based airline. “ExpressJet prides itself on having a culture that emphasizes giving back. We are honored to partner with Bert’s Big Adventure each year because it allows our team members to do just that. We have supported Bert’s Big Adventure all 14 years and everyone still gets genuinely excited about welcoming and interacting with all the amazing children and their families.” ExpressJet also decks out the private hangar for the send-off and welcome-back parties each year with
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Disney characters, superheroes and hundreds of their employees to raise the excitement. This year’s flight crew even donned Mickey ears with their uniforms! Vais—a veteran of the airline industry—explains why giving to Bert’s Big Adventure remains a priority. “Team members from all across the country have the opportunity to bring a little joy to the faces of families that are going through a very tough time in their lives, and that couldn’t make me more proud. We are honored to help facilitate this vacation to remember for those who need it most!” Headquartered in Atlanta, ExpressJet is led by a team of talented aviation professionals who are invested in empowering the front-line staff to make a difference.
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
New buccaneer Hunter asks when he gets the buried treasure.
VIP Tosh is pretty sure a swashbuckler needs a sword.
No bones about it: William loves being a pirate!
BBB | pirate makeovers | Ever wanted to join Captain Jack Sparrow’s crew and set sail in search of sunken ships and buried treasure? Lucky for this year’s Bert’s Big Adventure VIPs, that dream came true at Walt Disney World’s® The Pirate’s League! The kids were transformed head-to-toe into swashbucklers, getting everything from beards and scars to eye patches and swords. After reading from a scroll and being sworn in with proper pirate names, the new sea dogs learned the true secrets of being buccaneers in the hidden chamber!
VIP Seth waits his turn to get his official pirate name.
Captain Simon Bad Bones shares a laugh after a shave.
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
Nicholas Hight,
The WRESTLER by david crawford
A
lifelong fan of WWE, 10-year-old Bert’s Big Adventure VIP Nick Hight was meant to be a wrestler. The bell rang and he started his first match early: doctors diagnosed Nick with osteogenesis imperfecta stage III, commonly known as “brittle bones disease,” after he suffered 14 bone fractures at birth. His family learned to take extreme precaution in their day-to-day lives as even the slightest bump could really hurt Nick. His mom, Chassitty, discussed the true difficulty accepting the role of helpless parent. “To see your child in pain and not able to do what the other kids can do, and then not have a way to do anything to help, is extremely hard. All you can do is put a smile on your face while your heart cries.” Nick fought his way through many surgeries and more than 50 broken bones. Chassitty said in spite of the struggles caused by his disability, he’s always been her smart, funny, loving, caring son. “You hardly ever hear him complain. When he fractures a bone, he doesn’t cry anymore. He tells me his arm popped, we wrap it up and he is good to go. He is so tough.” Nick knew a broken bone or two wouldn’t take his wrestling heroes out of the ring so he figured out a way to stay in the ring, too. “Nick LOVES WWE. He watches it on Mondays, Thursdays and all the Pay-PerView events. He owns every wrestling figure you can buy!” Bert Weiss caught wind of Nick’s passion for the squared circle while spending the day with him in Animal Kingdom. Bert decided to make one of Nick’s dreams come true: to be a real-life WWE commentator by giving wrestling recaps live on The Bert Show!
“He owns every wrestling figure you can buy!” – Chassitty, Nicholas’s mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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2016 #s 172 12 3
BY THE
bert’s big adventure
FAMILIES
total children served
72 PEOPLE Learned the Word Ohana
1
FROM
STATES
Number of people it takes to donate at B E RTS B I G A DV E N T U R E . O RG
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to make a difference for these families bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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14
BERT’S BIG ADVENTURE Trips To Walt Disney World®
13
19 RIDES Bert’s Big IN 1 DAY AdventureVIPS THE 2016 RECORD
New Princesses &
Pirates made in the
Magic Kingdom
15: OUR BIG ANNIVERSARY NEXT YEAR! FIRST TIME
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FLYERS
DATES
For Next Year:
Feb. 15-20, 2017
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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Autumn Murray, by david crawford
O
n the last morning of Bert’s Big Adventure’s 2016 trip to Walt Disney World®, VIP Autumn Murray went to the hospital for precautionary measures related to lymphoma. The aggressive blood cancer caused her white cell counts to bottom out, and they needed to rebuild. Autumn’s mother, Ekuwa, phoned in to The Bert Show so that she could read the letter she wrote to her daughter, who was resting in her hospital bed.
Little
BEAR
Dear Little Bear, There are no words in the English lexicon to describe just who ‘Little Bear’ is. You bring your sunshine to everyone you meet and we are better for it. I am better for it. You love and give yourself even when you have nothing to give. You light up our lives—in spite of. And that is what makes you my hero— our hero: the in-spite-of. You have every right to be sad, but you’re not. You have every right to be angry, but you’re not. When doctors first checked the lump in Autumn’s chest, they told her it was a natural growth. A month later, it became a bone infection. Two days after that, they diagnosed her with stage III lymphoblastic lymphoma. Ekuwa said she can’t imagine a time in her own life when she was stronger than 12-year-old Autumn.
“You love and give yourself even when you have nothing
Your bravery and faith let me know beyond the shadow of a doubt that God is still in the blessing business — because you’ve got to know how blessed I am to be given the distinct honor of being your mom.
to give.” – Ekuwa, Autumn’s Mom
Ekuwa began calling Autumn ‘Little’ from birth as a term of endearment. Having always called her big sister ‘Pooh Bear,’ Autumn’s nickname slowly morphed into ‘Little Bear’ over the years, and Ekuwa has no plans for that to change. You will grow older and this time in your life will be a distant memory. You are loved—and you are love, Little Bear. Never forget that.
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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RENAISSANCE CONCOURSE ATLANTA AIRPORT HOTEL
N
ormally just the classic example of a AAA 4-Diamond luxury hotel, the Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel transformed into an off-the-wall party for two days this past February. Willingly, too. First they played host to Bert’s Big Adventure’s Wednesday Welcome festivities, rolling out the red carpet and a candy bar for all the new VIPs and their families. The kids enjoyed ice cream and a DJ dance party while the parents ate Jersey Mike’s Subs and got to know each other. On top of playing party host, the popular hotel also donated their luxurious rooms for all 13 Bert’s Big
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Adventure families, as well as the staff! Not that many slept for long: the following morning in the Renaissance’s downstairs private party room, The Bert Show held its annual send-off broadcast before the big trip. Everyone made it: Bert, Kristin, Brian, Stacey, Anna, Elsa, Woody, Buzz, Darth Vader... If the kids didn’t know what VIP meant already, they learned it here. Everywhere you turned you ran into a character, a prize, a smile, another breakfast or a live radio show giving away a car. This was the second consecutive year that the Renaissance partnered with Bert’s Big Adventure, an opportunity the hotel jumped at and hopes to continue for many years to come!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
en ts ... VI M ag ic al M om
P Fa m il ie s
T
HE REUNION ADVENTURES ARE A CRUCIAL PART OF WHAT MAKES BERT’S BIG ADVENTURE MUCH MORE THAN A TRIP. HOSTED QUARTERLY, THEY ALLOW THE FAMILIES FROM ALL PAST YEARS TO SPEND QUALITY TIME TOGETHER WHILE ENJOYING A VIP EVENT. SINCE 2008, THE REUNION ADVENTURES HAVE PROVIDED THESE FAMILIES A MUCH NEEDED COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE THAT UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER AND CAN LEAN ON EACH OTHER FOR SUPPORT.
en ts ...V IP Ma gi ca l Mo m
All the way from Charleston, SC to Atlanta, GA for the Holiday Reunion Adventure, the Vega family climbs on Sarah and Stacey to show how much fun they had on Bert’s Big Adventure in 2015!
Fa m ili es
The Bert’s Big Adventure crew poses for a photo on the track during the spring reunion at the Atlanta Steeplechase. For the second year, Atlanta Steeplechase donated a private tent party for our VIP kids and their families.
Families enjoy the Georgia Aquarium while waiting for the dolphin show at the fall Reunion Adventure, sponsored by Dentistry for Children and Family Orthodontics.
bertsbigadventure.org bertsbigadventure.org • magical • magical moments moments magazine magazine 2016 2016
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Kyle Seegars, by david crawford
H
aving never been to Walt Disney World® before, newly minted Bert’s Big Adventure VIP Kyle Seegars narrowed his list of “must-do’s” down to two: ride as many roller coasters as possible and go to the special “Star Wars” store (Luke Skywalker’s classic hero story was his favorite movie). Kyle began his hero journey as an ordinary kid facing extraordinary circumstances, something his mom said he got used to early in life. “He was born with congenital scoliosis with fused ribs, thoracic insufficiency syndrome and restrictive lung disease. He had 12 ribs on one side and nine on the other, his spine was severely curved and his left lung was much smaller than the right.” Doctors said Kyle’s condition was very rare and that his only hope was something completely new: titanium ribs. Also called VEPTR, or Vertical Expandable Prosthetic Titanium Ribs, they weren’t approved by the FDA yet. At the time—the summer of 2004— only four hospitals in the country were even performing the experimental procedure. “The first surgery was a success and Kyle now has one every six months to expand or exchange out his rods due to his growth. He’s had 22 so far, and that will continue until he is fully grown. Kyle isn’t afraid of surgery; he is very resilient and brave.” Both traits came in handy when he attempted to break the record for most rides in a single day on Bert’s Big Adventure with staff member Jason. For those counting, Kyle and Jason came up just shy (with 16 rides) of the record setting 19 in the Kristin Klingshirn-Conor McManus-led legendary run in 2014, but who’s keeping score? Kyle certainly stopped after he paired with Bert’s Big Adventure co-founder Stacey Weiss on the second day—they had too much stuff to carry! Just ask his Mom: “I had to pack a giant talking Yoda, two light sabers and tons of Star Wars Legos. The boys loved her!”
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A NEW
Hope “Kyle isn’t afraid of surgery; he is very resilient and brave.” – Tracie, Kyle’s mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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Spotlight
The
DOMINO
Effect
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
by david crawford
I don’t know how I can repay them all, but I will sure try with copious amounts of baked goods!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
B
ert’s Big Adventure VIP Autumn and her Mom, Ekuwa, were genuinely surprised to find out they were going to Walt Disney World®. One could say that founder Stacey Weiss pushed the first domino when she taught Executive Director Molly Darby and Program Director Sarah Rossetti that the art of surprise was a crucial part of their jobs. “Autumn had chemo earlier that day, so we were just at home resting. Molly and Sarah told me they needed to stop by to have me fill out a few forms," Ekuwa laughed. “...and after the ladies walked in the door, a parade of Disney princesses followed and filled up my living room. We screamed when Bert and Stacey walked in the door and told us we’d been chosen for Bert’s Big Adventure!” Bert Weiss waited until The Bert Show’s send-off broadcast to tackle one of Ekuwa’s biggest concerns – she didn’t have a car. After asking her to describe a time where she couldn’t get an Uber driver or cab during a leukemia-related emergency, Bert dished Ekuwa the surprise of a lifetime. “What if I told you that you never had to use a cab or call Uber ever again? That if something happened you could just look outside your house and have a car there? Because that car right there is for you from the employees of Audi Atlanta!” Prior to the send-off party, the employees of Audi Atlanta heard about Ekuwa’s need for a car and they wanted to help. So a team of Audi Atlanta employees banded together and collected individual donations from other employees, friends and family. They successfully raised $14,000 amongst their peers in order to purchase a reliable car for Ekuwa and Autumn. Ekuwa was speechless. Later, Audi even surprised Bert by hiring Ekuwa for a job after she and Autumn returned from Walt Disney World. “The employees at Audi Atlanta are amazing! The way they have blessed my family can’t really be put into words. We are truly grateful for that entire team." Ekuwa wasn’t going to let the last domino fall on her, keeping something up her sleeve for everyone at Bert’s Big Adventure and the employees at Audi Atlanta. “I don’t know how I can repay them all, but I will sure try with copious amounts of baked goods!”
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Hunter Smith, by david crawford
A
t The Bert Show’s Monday morning broadcast, live from the annual Bert’s Big Adventure trip, 5-yearold VIP Hunter Smith ran all around Walt Disney World’s® ESPN Club while others talked on the radio, traded commemorative park pins and ate Mickey Mouse waffles. Having just spent nearly a week together, everyone knew about Hunter being a real life superhero. “When Hunter was born, we found out he had short femur bones and hip dysplasia. Doctors told us it was likely he would never walk,” said his mom, Mindy. “Years later, those same doctors are still amazed at how he figured out a way to walk all by himself without any leg supports.” Hunter was also born with undiagnosed craniofacial abnormalities. This caused him to need 17 surgeries and left the potential for many more. Through genetic testing, doctors only found two other people in the world with the same gene mutations as Hunter—just one more thing in common with Mr. Incredible. Needless to say, Hunter’s parents loved seeing their boy get to enjoy life with Bert’s Big Adventure in Walt Disney World. “We will never forget this truly magical trip. Watching Hunter experience so many firsts over the five days was amazing!” Those included first plane ride, first time to Walt Disney World, first time driving his dad around in a car on Test Track, first dance party with Disney characters, first safari ride, first time becoming a pirate, and first ever radio broadcast breakfast party! It was all a nice break from a life spent overcoming odds. “The ultimate plan is to build Hunter’s facial bones so that he will one day be able to remove the tracheostomy tube, eat and breathe with his mouth, and even talk. There is a long road ahead of him.” Nothing Mr. Incredible can’t handle.
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Mr.
INCREDIBLE
“We will never forget this truly magical trip. Watching Hunter experience so many firsts over the five days was amazing!” – Mindy, Hunter’s mom
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
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CARTER'S CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
C
arter’s, one of Bert’s Big Adventure’s longest sponsors, first began its partnership with the nonprofit in 2010. And as Bert’s Big Adventure has grown over the last six years, so has its partnership with Carter’s. “It was important to us to be able to do more than just give money,” says Jill Wilson, senior vice president of human resources and talent development at Carter’s. “We wanted an opportunity for our employees to get involved and be connected to this great cause… With that, the Fairy Godparent program was born.” Launched in May of 2010 through the Carter’s Charitable Foundation, the Fairy Godparent program supports Bert’s Big Adventure’s children and their families through the stress and uncertainty of hospitalizations. Its volunteers — many of whom are Carter’s employees — visit Bert’s Big Adventure children at partner hospitals daily throughout their hospitalization, bringing toys, activities, food and a much-needed break for the entire family. “We thought the Fairy Godparent program was such a wonderful way to support beyond the Bert’s Big
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Adventure trip,” says Wilson, “and a way for our employees to get more involved with the children.” In addition to the Fairy Godparent program, the company also provides a team of volunteers at nearly every Bert’s Big Adventure event and Reunion Adventure throughout the year. Most fun, though, is their trademark booth at The Bert Show’s broadcast at the annual sendoff party. “We try to pick a theme with things the Bert’s Big Adventure VIP kids will be seeing at Walt Disney World® to get them even more excited for the trip. Last year, we had a “Frozen” theme and this year our theme was “Star Wars,” says Katy Adams, Carter’s Human Resources director. “Typically, all our volunteer slots are filled within five minutes of sending out a sign up form for the event.” Because of its strong support, steady supply of passionate volunteers and commitment to growing along with Bert’s Big Adventure, Carter’s has become a trusted teammate, helping Bert’s Big Adventure accomplish more each year. “We felt it was a great match,” Wilson says, which makes perfect sense when you consider the foundation’s mission: to help children thrive.
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
ROBERSONS
Spotlight
BLACKBURNS A CONVERSATION WITH THE BLACKBURNS AND ROBERSONS: WE’RE NOT ALONE ANYMORE by david crawford
In 2012, 5-year-old Breanna Blackburn and 8-year-old Jainah Roberson met on Bert’s Big Adventure. They understood each other-- Breanna had cystic fibrosis and Jainah had lupus--and quickly became new best friends. Recently their mothers, Amanda Blackburn and Marla Roberson discussed Bert’s Big Adventure’s lasting positive impact on their families with us. How did you meet? Marla: We met for the first time the night of Bert’s Big Adventure Orientation at the Children’s Museum and hit it off right from the start! It felt like we had known each other for forever. Amanda: We chatted for most of the night. It just seemed like we had so much in common. Do any memories from Bert’s Big Adventure 2012 stand out? Marla: Everything!! Amanda: I remember meeting the Robersons at the Grand Floridian before dinner one night. You would’ve thought the kids would be tired after such a long, fun, eventful day. Nope! They were laughing, being silly, making goofy faces and dancing all around the lobby. It was as if these kids didn’t have a care in the world, and in that moment, they didn’t. I could have lived in that moment for a very long time. I think about it often.
Marla: Our families were stuck together like glue every chance we got: waiting for meals, at meals, on buses, at shows and dance parties. We always found each other! How has the friendship blossomed in the years since? Marla: We have remained really close with each other, even though we live an hour apart. Whether it be for dinner, kids’ birthday parties, housewarming parties, whatever: we really just love hanging out with each other! Amanda: The Robersons have been very dear to us; they have been a shoulder to cry on, an ear to vent to, a friend to visit us in the hospital. That’s the way friendship should be: knowing you can count on somebody else and that they’re going to understand what you’re going through when the rest of the world doesn’t. Meet the Robersons!
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
What role has Bert's Big Adventure played in that? Marla: For one, the reunions are great because we get to see everyone from our trip and meet the other families in our extended family! Amanda: You don’t feel alone so much anymore knowing that someone is there for you. Bert’s Big Adventure puts you on this chain and we are all linked up. If one family doesn’t know something, another one will, and everyone is willing to help each other. We are truly blessed! Bert’s Big Adventure knows what families need, and they bring us together. I’ve never met another group of people like them! Any thoughts on Bert’s Big Adventure five years down the road? Amanda: I love them each year only more! Bert’s Big Adventure will always have a special place in our hearts. I don’t care how old we get: we are family! Marla: We are so proud to be part of the Bert’s Big Adventure family!
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PAY YOUR
Soul :
A CONVERSATION WITH THE CAST OF THE BERT SHOW
B
ert Weiss and Kristin Klingshirn rang in the new year with a new cast member, comedian Brian Moote! Since Bert has been a part of every one of his 14 Big Adventures - with Kristin joining for the last five - Brian’s status as first timer offered a unique perspective to the trip. Here is a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation with the cast of The Bert Show discussing Brian’s first year on Bert’s Big Adventure, the impact this trip has on a person, and Mickey Mouse-shaped foods.
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bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
basically taking the spotlight, almost as if we had forgotten we were just audience members. We were goofing around having a blast.
BERT: Okay rook, tell us about your first Bert’s Big Adventure trip. Kristin and I have been going for years now. KRISTIN: Yeah this was my fifth year and every trip has a different feel. You always take away something unique because of the families and the kids. BERT: So what did you think? BRIAN: What struck me was how you really get to see the kids push themselves and go beyond their boundaries. You watch kids really step out of their comfort zone. I never thought I could say that going on rides would be therapeutic, but going on rides for a lot of these kids is therapy. Routine is so big for a lot of kids with special needs—and this is not the routine! To watch all these kids go for it and have so much fun…I really appreciated seeing them outside their element. BERT: It’s hard to scare these kids. I mean, they get a diagnosis, they’re at the doctor’s office all the time, they get needles put in them, they’re in big machines that they can’t quite figure out. How are you going to scare these kids with a roller coaster? KRISTIN: Their determination is always inspiring to see. BERT: What else ya find, newbie? (Everyone laughs) BRIAN: Well, I know for me I have trouble stepping out of my comfort zone, too. Getting picked to join the stage show at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue was one of those moments where I was way out of my comfort zone, but then I saw the kids running through the dining room in a conga line playing washboards. I saw everybody having so much fun and
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BERT: Yeah these kids know how to live in the moment. Look, none of us know how much time we have. The thing that separates us from these kids is that we haven’t had doctors telling us how long that might be. Every year on this trip, you start to see kids come out of their shell throughout the week. BRIAN: I watched the transformation from the send-off at the Renaissance Hotel. I mean it’s a big production—very overwhelming. The energy is “Hey!! Welcome to the show!!” KRISTIN: Yeah it’s intense. BRIAN: I wasn’t ready for it—and I’m a grown-up! (Everyone laughs) BRIAN: You watch kids come down that red carpet and they’re a little reserved. And then near the end of the night you see them hit another level of being comfortable with everybody. By Monday, we see William trying to take the headphones off you, Bert! I mean, he wants to host the show at this point. We’ve come from being a little bit intimidated by the energy to, “Hey, radio? If these guys are doing it why can’t I do it?” (Everyone laughs) BRIAN: So you just see these kids break down and push themselves and start to be friends with other kids. By the end of the trip, I didn’t know where families started and where they stopped. I didn’t know who was responsible for who—it was like a village, or that concept.
bertsbigadventure.org • magical moments magazine 2016
BERT: Isn’t it awesome? You get confused who is with who because after a while it really becomes like this giant family. It’s no longer staff and 13 or 14 individual families; we become one family. I think it’s one of the beautiful things on the trip. KRISTIN: This trip changes you. You come home with so much perspective. You don’t let the little things bother you. But these kids, these families: they make you a better person. Every trip there is a tremendous amount of love, but this year it just far exceeded anything I’ve ever seen. It was fitting that we stayed at the Polynesian and used the Hawaiian word ‘Ohana’ for family. I felt such a tremendous sense of love with this entire group. I’ve said it time and time again: The Bert Show pays the bills; Bert’s Big Adventure pays the soul. BERT: That’s the truth. Well Brian, I’m glad you got to experience Bert’s Big Adventure for the very first time. BRIAN: Yeah it is an amazing feat. I know you guys and the Bert’s Big Adventure staff probably don’t give yourselves enough credit. This trip to me was an opportunity for families to just be families. You get to watch kids just being kids. I thought it was a blessing and very unique—I was blown away. BERT: Ohana: It’s the year of ohana. Welcome to the ohana, Brian! KRISTIN: I gotta warn ya, though: you may want all of your food to be shaped like Mickey Mouse for a little while. I have no idea how Walt Disney World® is able to turn some of that stuff into Mickey Mouse shapes, but I long for it every year when I get home!
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The Fairy Godparent volunteer program is one of the four programs provided by Bert’s Big Adventure to the families it serves.
Any time a Bert’s Big Adventure child is admitted into a partner hospital, they receive a daily visit from a Fairy Godparent volunteer. Sponsored by the Carter’s Charitable Foundation, in 2015 this program engaged more than 100 volunteers who collectively logged over 230 hours of hospital time visiting with the Bert's Big Adventure kids and their family members. Bert’s Big Adventure volunteers brighten their days by bringing a delicious meal (a break from hospital food) and entertainment with a small activity, like crafts, games or even manicures for the girls. For the parents, the nearly 1,400 volunteer visits since the program’s inception also present a huge helping hand, offering them a moment of relief to leave the child’s side to take a shower, send an email update or just take a much-needed break. The Fairy Godparent volunteers provide an invaluable service in boosting morale and breaking up trying hospital stays.
When you wish upon a star you never imagine that you will receive your own personal Fairy Godparent to grant your requests. But Bert’s Big Adventure provides just that, a Fairy Godparent volunteer to grant the wishes of children with chronic or terminal illnesses. With a wave of their magic wands, the volunteers of the Fairy Godparent volunteer program provide much needed support and companionship to the families of children who are facing insurmountable odds.
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"The Fairy Godparent volunteer visits are sometimes the only bright spots during long admissions. They are fresh, smiling faces from people who care about my daughter, but aren’t worn down from being in the trenches day in and day out. An hour of playtime with a Fairy Godparent volunteer who has positive energy and loves to laugh feels like an hour outside the hospital doors, even though Madison is never allowed to leave the bed. I’m so grateful for the mental and emotional vacation!" Lisa, mother of Madison
“The Fairy Godparents are such a blessing. It was hard for Brandon to be stuck in a hospital room for over a month without the comforts of home but he looked forward to the Fairy Godparents visiting as well as the games they would play together. One of Brandon’s favorite visits was from Ginny when she brought the nerf toy guns and they played in the room. It was also a comfort for me to be able to step out for a minute to get some air while they stayed with Brandon. I know he was always in good hands. Thanks, again, for everything.” -Pam, mother of Brandon
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TROIKA STUDIO
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roika Studio partners Michael Birchall and Seth Ferreira’s long relationship with Bert’s Big Adventure began in 2009 when they were hired to help create the layout and design of the inaugural issue of Magical Moments magazine. Troika’s initial meeting with Bert's Big Adventure Founder Stacey Weiss was all it took to get the ball rolling. “Their passion for creativity led me to ask about our logo. Michael did a sketch on a nearby napkin and that was it. I ended up hiring Troika to rebrand our organization, as well as The Bert Show,” explained Stacey. Now Troika does everything from building and
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maintaining websites to filming and producing YouTube videos. Seth and Michael also go on each annual trip to Walt Disney World® as videographers, Bert's Big Adventure staff members and jack-of-all-trades helpers, oftentimes working behind the scenes on the fly. As integral as they are to the magic created by Bert’s Big Adventure every year, they are quick to deflect praise. “We came on this trip as videographers with the sole purpose of capturing the magical moments of these kids and their families,” explained Birchall. “In the end, the magical moments of the kids and their families captured us!”
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ATLANTA MOON RIDE
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he Atlanta Moon Ride hosted its inaugural 6.5-mile bike ride in May of 2013, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting Bert’s Big Adventure. More than 700 people dressed in costumes and lined their bike spokes with glow sticks for the nighttime adventure through some of Atlanta’s hippest neighborhoods, raising $10,000 along the way. The Moon Ride’s Founder Joel Darby said the event grew out of his passion for the local charity. “I started the Atlanta Moon Ride because my wife (Bert's Big Adventure Executive Director Molly Darby) and I love Bert’s Big Adventure. We hoped that with this concept and help from the community, we could make an
impactful donation and spread awareness.” Done and done: the 2nd annual Atlanta Moon Ride in 2014 raised $35,000. The ride turned into one big, fun, family-friendly party, bringing live music and food trucks to the kick-off party hosted at popular Piedmont Park. Last year, the event brought in $45,000—the same amount as the first two years combined! Ever wanted to ride in costume through Atlanta’s coolest neighborhoods with thousands of your closest friends glowing at night? On June 10, 2016, Joel and the Atlanta Moon Ride team will try to top $50,000 for Bert’s Big Adventure’s upcoming 15th Anniversary! For more information, visit www.atlantamoonride.com.
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PARENTS' PERSPECTIVES by david crawford
OHANA Everyone on Bert’s Big Adventure this year stayed at Walt Disney World’s® newly renovated Polynesian Village Resort, an oasis of tropical palms and white-sand beaches. Over the course of their five-day VIP stay, the staff and families all quickly became one big Ohana, the Hawaiian word for ‘family.’ Here, we asked this year’s parents to discuss joining the Bert’s Big Adventure Ohana.
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Mindy Smith (Hunter’s Mom): This is the best kind of family; everyone understands your day-to-day struggles. It was great to spend a week with people who can relate to your situation, and have no worries or rude comments about how your child is so different. You don't feel like you’re alone on your journey anymore. We missed everyone the minute we got home! Amy Hamby (Leslie’s Mom): I loved listening to each family’s story and how we are all alike; I felt like a complete family while on the trip. We are very lucky to be able to be a part of something so wonderful. My kids are still talking about everything they loved! Mark and Kiyomi Eschoe (Marley and Tosh’s Parents): Our types of families have so much that we endure on a daily basis, that moments of joy are hard to come by. Bert’s Big Adventure gave us this new energy of joy that has been infectious since we came back home. We have not stopped smiling! Raymond Granell (Raynel’s Dad): There is no way Raynel could’ve ever experienced Disney that way without Bert’s Big Adventure: no one travels with a medical staff, a security staff, and the blessing of having someone to coordinate the whole day’s activities without worrying about anything! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your precious family!
Rebecca Geringer (Ashlynn’s Mom): Being a part of such an amazing group we now call family is humbling. After spending five days with the Bert’s Big Adventure staff and the other families, I couldn't imagine them not being a part of our lives forever. Saying ‘see you later’ was hard—I cried knowing it was time to part ways for the time being.
Megan Genjian (William’s Guardian): It wasn't until after I went to the orientation that I started to realize Bert’s Big Adventure is so much more than a once-in-a-lifetime trip. It is an entrance into a support system. It's a community of staff members that want to do whatever it takes to help you. Furthermore, you get to form community with other families that can relate to your hardships and gain knowledge and support from each other’s experiences. I am so blessed and beyond excited to be a part!
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Ekuwa Ansah (Autumn’s Mom): I don't want to imagine what our lives would be like if we were not a part of the Bert’s Big Adventure family. Words can only begin to scratch the surface. I can't wait to be able to help new families coming in! Jessica Caporal (James’ Mom): We couldn't be more thankful for Bert’s Big Adventure making our kids feel so special, for loving on us, and for just being so wonderful! So many other organizations focus solely on the "sick" child, they don't realize how that illness affects the entire family. We can't wait to see everyone again! Tracie Seegars (Kyle’s Mom): The trip was wonderful and the people we met were even better; I felt like we were part of one big family! I love that Bert’s Big Adventure provides opportunities throughout the year to get together. I can't wait to reconnect with all our new friends but also meet the previous families as well. Byron and Marva Green (Kylin’s Parents): As parents we just wanted to sit back and enjoy the smiles on our children’s faces while they had the time of their lives. Our Bert’s Big Adventure family is made up of awesome God-sent individuals! Chassitty Hight (Nick’s Mom): We had so much fun on our trip to Disney! It was a blessing to get to spend that magical time with Nick; there are no words to express our gratitude. This is such a huge blessing. It's an amazing thing that Bert’s Big Adventure does; they touched our hearts in the best way possible! Colleen Flynn (Seth’s Mom): Sometimes in the routine of daily life people can lose sight of the important things and of the things that matter. Bert’s Big Adventure gives you that moment to step back, give up control and live in the moment. It really does bring families together!
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TIN LIZZY'S CANTINA
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ack in 2011, Tin Lizzy’s Cantina decided to make its spare office space available to a local charity growing out of its own home offices, and so began a great relationship between the FlexMex favorite and one of its favorite charities, Bert’s Big Adventure. “We have been longtime supporters of Bert’s Big Adventure. Being involved with this organization raises our game at Tin Lizzy’s. The approach to helping these kids is driven by true generosity from the team,” said Tory Bartlett, CEO of Tin Lizzy’s Cantina. The generosity Bartlett mentions from his Tin Lizzy’s team merely begins at the shared office space.
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They donate proceeds from Cinco de Mayo margaritas, National Taco Day tacos, and Bert’s Big Adventure Restaurant Week. They even give 100 percent of the proceeds from sales of their chip salt. Tin Lizzy’s dedication to helping Bert’s Big Adventure doesn’t stop in-house, either. They match donations made during Bert’s Big Adventure’s “Little Give” promotion, as well as sponsor the Atlanta Moon Ride, an annual bicycle ride benefiting Bert's Big Adventure. According to Bartlett, the reason for consistently going above and beyond is simple. “Our relationship with Bert’s Big Adventure is one where we get back so much more than we give.”
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AVALON IN ALPHARETTA “NOON TO NIGHT” FASHION SHOW
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015 marked the beginning of a new partnership as Avalon in Alpharetta hosted its first ever Noon To Night Fashion Show benefiting Bert’s Big Adventure. “Noon To Night was an exclusive fashion show with a heartwarming twist: Bert’s Big Adventure’s VIP kids joined professional models and Atlanta celebrities in showing off the looks of over 40 of Avalon’s famed retailers while a standingroom-only crowd cheered them on,” said Carla Toro, Avalon’s director of marketing. “All 500 regular and VIP tickets for the September event quickly sold out! We raised $10,000 for Bert’s Big Adventure, while providing the kids and the Alpharetta community an evening they’ll never forget.” Luckily for those near Avalon in Alpharetta, Carla’s team is already hard at work on 2016’s Noon To Night Fashion Show scheduled for Thursday, September 15, and plan to continue their work with Bert’s Big Adventure for years to come. “We make every effort to work with organizations whose core values align with our own while also impacting those in need locally. Creating magical experiences for sick children is a cause close to our hearts, so our work with Bert’s Big Adventure could not be a better fit.”
FALL FASHION BENEFIT at AVALON
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Be Part
Magic of the
THIS ALL-EXPENSESPAID TRIP WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF THE BERT SHOW LISTENING COMMUNITY. DONATIONS AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT BY VARIOUS ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS ARE ESSENTIAL IN CONTINUING NOT JUST THE BERT’S BIG ADVENTURE TRIP TO WALT DISNEY WORLD®, BUT THE MANY ADDITIONAL WAYS THE ORGANIZATION ASSISTS THE SELECTED CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES.
NOMINATE A CHILD Children may be nominated or may apply for the Bert's Big Adventure trip by filling out a nomination form or a confidential application. Bert's Big Adventure serves children with chronic and terminal illnesses between the ages of 5 and 12 years old who live in The Bert Show radio listening area, prove financial need and have never been to Walt Disney World. Applications are available on the organization's website: bertsbigadventure.org.
MAKE A DONATION Contributions can be either monetary or through fulfillments of the Bert’s Big Adventure “Wish List.” Information on both can be found at bertsbigadventure.org.
BECOME A SPONSOR Bert’s Big Adventure has multiple sponsorship and marketing opportunities available. Organizations wishing to participate should visit Bert’s Big Adventure at bertsbigadventure.org or call 678.929.8474.
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SPONSORSHIP LEVELS Star Steward: $100,000 + • Custom, four week, on-air promotion on The Bert Show • E-mail blast with promotion and sponsor information web link • Flash version of your company logo on Bert’s Big Adventure’s website homepage • Company logo and short editorial on the Our Partners page of Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • A link to your website through Our Partners page on Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • Short video displaying your partnership with Bert’s Big Adventure on the Our Partners page of the Bert’s Big Adventure website • Promotion through Bert’s Big Adventure’s social media outlets • Company logo on signage at Bert’s Big Adventure’s send-off event • Two-page spread in Bert’s Big Adventure’s Magical Moments magazine • A “We Support Bert’s Big Adventure” window cling
Magic Maker: $50,000 - $100,000 • Custom, two week, on-air promotion on The Bert Show • E-mail blast with promotion and sponsor information web link • Flash version of your company logo on Bert’s Big Adventure’s website homepage • Company logo and short editorial on the Our Partners page of Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • A link to your website through Our Partners page on Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • Short video displaying your partnership with Bert’s Big Adventure on the Our Partners page of the website • Promotion through Bert’s Big Adventure’s social media outlets • Company logo on signage at Bert’s Big Adventure’s send-off event • Full-page article in Bert’s Big Adventure’s Magical Moments magazine • A “We Support Bert’s Big Adventure” window cling Wish Granter: $15,000-$50,000 • Company logo on the Our Partners page of Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • A link to your website through Our Partners page of Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • Promotion through Bert’s Big Adventure’s social media outlets • Half-page article in Bert’s Big Adventure’s Magical Moments magazine • A “We Support Bert’s Big Adventure” window cling Dream Builder: $5,000-$15,000 • Company logo on the Our Partners page of Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • A link to your website through Our Partners page on Bert’s Big Adventure’s website • Promotion through Bert’s Big Adventure’s social media outlets • Quarter-page article in Bert’s Big Adventure’s Magical Moments magazine • A “We Support Bert’s Big Adventure” window cling For more information contact: info@bertsbigadventure.org
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wishgranters Häagen-Dazs Shops Thanks to Häagen-Dazs, Bert's Big Adventure families enjoy some of the world's best ice cream before heading to Walt Disney World® every February. Their ice cream shops in Atlanta and Charleston have been supporting and raising money for Bert's Big Adventure for more than five years now.
Cooper Global Since 2008, Cooper Global has provided the Bert's Big Adventure VIPs with a ride to the red carpet send-off party in style with one of their classic limousines or luxury buses. Many families cite this as the moment they realize they are part of Bert's Big Adventure.
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wishgranters Allgood Pest Solutions Allgood Pest Solutions is a family-owned business devoted to giving back to charities for the last 25 years. In 2015, Allgood Pest Solutions added Bert's Big Adventure to that ever-growing list, raising $21,584! The company’s fundraising slogan says it all: When the kids are at Disney, it’s Allgood!!!
Balloonacy In 2010, Holland Musico and her custom balloon décor prowess jumped on board to amp up decorations for the Bert’s Big Adventure send-off celebration. Each year, she works her magic by spending hours on end designing hundreds of balloons across the send-off event space that ties the entire motif together. The kids faces light up when they enter the room.
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wishgranters Taste of Speed Taste of Speed founders Jeff Beal and Cindy Steedle have an extraordinary passion for helping children. Through their efforts and the efforts of their incredible volunteers, Jeff and Cindy were able to raise $27,000 for Bert’s Big Adventure at the one-of-a-kind luxury event.
Dunkin' Donuts Since 2012, the Dunkin' Donuts and Baskin Robbins Community Foundation has been supporting Bert's Big Adventure with grants totaling more than $20,000! Dunkin' Donuts also provides delicious donuts each year for the send-off breakfast!
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dreambuilders Broadway In Atlanta Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta proudly supports Bert’s Big Adventure year after year by writing really big numbers on really big checks. In 2015, Broadway in Atlanta contributed $10,000 through its pre-season ticket sales promotions!
Physicians' Alliance of America Dr. Philip Weiss and his team at Physicians’ Alliance are loyal and dedicated supporters of Bert’s Big Adventure. Every year, Dr. Weiss shows his passion for the children of Bert’s Big Adventure by working quietly behind the scenes to help bring funds to the organization.
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dreambuilders Taco Mac An Atlanta institution for more than 36 years, Taco Mac takes pride in partnering with charities that serve their local communities. By participating in the first Restaurant Week in support of Bert’s Big Adventure, Taco Mac, along with several other restaurants, helped raise nearly $60,000 for children with chronic and terminal illnesses.
Jump Ahead Horse Show The Jump Ahead Benefit is a two-day horse-riding event in which Atlanta-area children get the chance to showcase their equestrian skills in competition. Founder Julie Mohr and the Jump Ahead team’s tireless efforts made the 2015 equestrian event a tremendous success. The benefit raised more than $10,000 for Bert’s Big Adventure!
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dreambuilders Taste of Atlanta Celebrating 15 years in 2016, Taste Of Atlanta is a legendary three-day food festival showcasing the area’s culinary diversity. Founder Dale DeSena and her team always give back to several local charities and last year Taste Of Atlanta contributed $10,000 to Bert’s Big Adventure!
Q100 Growing along with the Bert’s Big Adventure family since it formed 14 years ago, Q100 continues to play a key role in developing promotions to provide critical funding. Q100 also helps make Bert’s Big Adventure’s annual send-off celebration an incredible success each year!
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Save the date for April 22, 2017
Bert’s Big Adventure is proud to be the primary beneficiary of the Atlanta Steeplechase. We are also grateful for the opportunity to have had the Atlanta Steeplechase host our Spring Reunion Adventure for the past two years!
Bert’s Big Adventure would like to thank all of the wonderful restaurants that participated in the inaugural Bert’s Big Adventure Restaurant Week, which raised nearly $60,000!
BERT’S BIG ADVENTURE AUTO DONATION PROGRAM
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WALT DISNEY WORLD • MAGIC KINGDOM • ANIMAL KINGDOM • HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS • EPCOT
2016
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NEXT YEAR’S TRIP DATES:
February 15-20, 2017 Now Serving: Atlanta, GA Brunswick, GA Charleston, SC Copeland, KS Dallas, TX Dothan, AL Ft. Wayne, IN Grand Forks, ND Hot Springs, AR Hugoton, KS Huntington, WV Jamestown/Valley City, ND Macon, GA Mobridge, SD Myrtle Beach, SC Nashville, TN Pierre, SD
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PROUD STAR STEWARD SPONSOR OF
BERT’S BIG ADVENTURE