The much-anticipated day we had eagerly awaited all year finally arrived! Our families awoke to the sweet melody of their countdown clocks ringing, signaling the beginning of our 21st annual trip to Walt Disney World. It was go time!
The energy was absolutely electric as the 2024 Bert’s Big Adventure families arrived on the at the Hilton Atlanta Airport hotel in complete luxury, thanks to the meticulous planning of our dear friend Ally from Fur Bus!
After walking the red carpet, our crew caught up with one another and continued to build the bonds that started at Orientation before dining on a delicious meal from Zaxby’s! After dinner, we enjoyed a sundae party courtesy of Häagen-Dazs while we all jammed out to tunes curated by DJ Jobe and danced the night away! Our dear friend, Holland Musico of Balloonacy, once again donated her talents and lovingly decorated the space.
Thanks to the thoughtful Cindy Powers and the incredible folks at the Georgia Garrison: 501st Legion, we had the most amazing character volunteers to spend the evening playing alongside our kiddos! One of the night’s most memorable moments was when the Stars Wars Dusty Jawas surprised everyone with their Utinni Dance. The joy on the kids’ faces was truly magical!
As the night wound down, Bert and Kristin made a few major announcements …
SURPRISE! Every family received an Everywhere Belt Bag thanks to our loving Fairy Godparent Volunteer, Malachi Jones, and Lululemon. We also have to thank Carter’s Charitable Foundation, who donated custom goodie boxes that included emergency travel money should anyone forget to pack anything for the trip. The talented Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker at Atlanta Face & Body also graciously gifted every mom with an incredible self-care gift package valued at $1,400.
To everyone who donated to our Amazon Wish List – thank you SO much!
We would never be able to do this without the Hilton Atlanta Airport hotel! The hotel donates all our event spaces and generously provides a deeply discounted rate so that every Bert’s Big Adventure family can rest easy before Disney! They truly set the tone for a once-in-a-lifetime journey – THANK YOU!
Make sure to follow all the magical moments with the hashtag #BBA2024, or on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Last but never least, thanks to our photographers, including Amanda W. Coker, Cassandra Young Photography, Monarch Studio, and Sarah Esther Photography. Thank you to Aslyn Baringer Productions and Salt Run Creative for capturing these magical moments on video!
Remember, we couldn’t do all of this without YOU!
As we embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey, we invite our supporters to join us. Your contribution, whether it’s $5 or more, can make a monumental difference in the lives of these deserving children with chronic and terminal illnesses. Every dollar you donate to Bert’s Big Adventure between now and February 29th will be matched dollar for dollar by Zaxby’s. It’s not just a donation; it’s a BOGO good karma opportunity. Please donate today.
The day has finally arrived because tomorrow…. we head to Walt Disney World!
