A Pleasant Grove High School student received the surprise of a lifetime when the nonprofit organization Magic Moments gifted him a dream vacation to Orlando.

Kenneth Spencer, who battles sickle cell anemia, a chronic genetic disease, will spend a week in May visiting Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.The surprise took place at R.F. Bumpus Middle School in Hoover, where Spencer was invited under the pretense of being a guest judge for a student talent show. At the end of the event, the organizers revealed that Spencer was the true “winner” and would be going on the trip.

Magic Moments, which grants non-medical experiences to children in Alabama with chronic or life-threatening conditions, made the trip possible with the support of Hoover City Schools and Bumpus Middle School. The student government association at Bumpus Middle School contributed to the funding through a dedicated fundraising effort.

The event was part of Magic Moments’ mission to bring joy to children facing significant health challenges. In addition to granting wishes, the organization continues its support through its Beyond the Moment program, fostering ongoing relationships with the children it serves.

With the support of his community and Magic Moments, Spencer will soon embark on a memorable journey to the most magical place on earth.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sablevins@farmerstel.com.