Let’s get out on the dance floor with Bert’s Big Adventure 2024 Kiddo, Eliora!
Before sweet and spunky Eliora was born, her dad, BJ, and her mom, Priscila, were at a routine ultrasound appointment when they were told their unborn child had a “lemon sign” on her skull. Later the same day, they were squeezed in for a second ultrasound appointment, where they were given a diagnosis of Spina Bifida.
Spina Bifida affects about 1,500 babies each year.
During the first month of fetal development, the backbones, spinal cord, and its coverings fail to develop normally in a patient with spina bifida. This most commonly occurs along the lower part of the back. The neurological damage is irreversible, leaving the child with permanent weakness or paralysis of the legs.
The family explored fetal surgery options and even traveled to a children’s hospital in Cincinnati for an evaluation. Ultimately, they weren’t a candidate and had to wait for Eliora’s arrival. Eliora was born and almost immediately transported to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Within the first three days of her life, she underwent two major surgeries. The first was to close her back, and the second was to place a shunt in her brain.
Eliora and her family (dad, mom, and her two brothers, Asher and Levi) have braved numerous challenges over the years, with health issues presenting many hurdles.
Eliora was in the hospital battling for her life after contracting bacterial meningitis in 2015. Shortly after, she had to undergo multiple back surgeries in 2018 and 2022 to remedy a tethered cord.
Eliora has had 20+ surgeries to date, with most of them being shunt revisions. Throughout it all, her family’s support has been invaluable. Their strength and resilience in facing these challenges together are truly commendable.
In the future, more surgeries await Eliora. She is truly a warrior.
After hearing about Eliora’s brave journey, we made it our mission to create some magical moments!
Thanks to our friends at KIDZ BOP and Georgia Amusement and Music Operators Association (GAMOA), we joined together to plan a VERY SPECIAL SURPRISE for Eliora at the Bert’s Big Adventure annual Send-Off Celebration in February 2024.
KIDZ BOP recorded a personalized video for Eliora, surprising her with 2 VIP Diamond Tickets to their upcoming show on Sunday, October 6th, at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta!
These premium tickets include an exclusive post-show Meet & Greet and photo opportunity with the KIDZ BOP Kids, a dance party and Q&A with the KIDZ BOP kids before the show, one KIDZ BOP autographed item, a specially designed KIDZ BOP gift pack, a commemorative KIDZ BOP Meet & Greet laminate and lanyard, a fast pass line at a designated concession stand, photos in front of the VIP backdrop to commemorate the evening, and an on-site VIP host!!
And that’s not all! This Daddy-Daughter Date Night will also include a luxury stay at The Hotel Avalon and a stylish ride to the concert on Fur Bus!
The Daddy-Daughter Date Night Finally Arrived!
On Sunday, October 4th, Eliora and her dad, BJ, woke up in style at The Hotel at Avalon, all thanks to the generosity of our friends at the Georgia Amusement and Music Operators Association (GAMOA))!
The father-daughter duo began the day with a delicious brunch at Superica, followed by a luxurious manicure at Lux Nail Lounge. Eliora chose a light purple polish with playful black and white polka dots. How cute!
After an afternoon filled with treats and pampering, Eliora and her dad were ready for the musical highlight of the day! To their delight, Michael from the Fur Bus arrived in a bright pink bus playing KIDZ Bop tunes, setting the perfect mood for Eliora, our popstar princess!
Their next stop was Ameris Bank Amphitheater for a VIP Pre-Show Dance Party and a special Q&A session with the KIDZ BOP Kids! Before the concert began, Eliora and her dad had some time to relax and share a few laughs.
Then, it was showtime! The two were captivated by the KIDZ BOP Kids’ energetic performance and even participated in a Daddy Dance Off! During intermission, Eliora made a surprise appearance on the big screen!
The excitement didn’t stop there. After the show, Eliora enjoyed an exclusive Meet & Greet and photo session with the KIDZ BOP Kids, capping off an unforgettable evening.