With the heaviest hearts, we share the news that Hugh Logan (Hughie), 27, passed away on Tuesday, July 30th, 2024. Hughie embarked on Bert’s Big Adventure’s annual 5-day journey to Disney in 2006; he was only 9 years old.
Hughie was born with Myotonic Dystrophy, an inherited disorder of muscle function. It is characterized by muscle weakness and myotonia (slow relaxation of the muscles after contraction). Myotonic dystrophy affects only 1 in every 20,000 people.
“Despite his non-verbal nature, Hughie’s love was always evident in his eyes, especially when he received a hug. His Grandparents, Sheila and Don, who made Hughie the center of their lives, were a blessing to him. We take comfort in knowing that Hughie is now with his beloved Poppa. The Bert’s Big Adventure family will forever cherish Hugh’s silent but powerful presence. Hughie has always been and will always be a greatly loved and cherished member of the Bert’s Big Adventure family” – Nurse Cathy Robinson
The Bert’s Big Adventure staff recently interviewed Hughie for the 20th Annual Legacy Book. He shared updates on his life and memories of his experiences with Bert’s Big Adventure throughout the past eighteen years. He specifically doted on his niece and nephew, stating that spending time with them was his favorite activity. He also particularly highlighted how much he loved going out to eat after doctor appointments! Hughie also loved the bond he shared with Candace, a fellow Bert’s Big Adventure 2008 kiddo. They had such a special friendship.
“To have a kid who is unable to communicate be able to look at me on Saturday, shake his fist up, and say, “Awesome!”…says everything.” – Melissa Carter discussing her time in the park with Hughie during the 2006 broadcast from Walt Disney World.
Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve.
It is with the most profound sadness that we share the news that 24-year-old Lacee Lallerstedt passed away on July 8, 2024. Lacee joined Bert’s Big Adventure and went to Walt Disney World with the organization in 2004; She was just 4 years old at the time.
Lacee was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a genetic disorder in which the loss of nerve cells in the spinal cord affects the part of the nervous system that controls voluntary movement.
During the 5-day trip to Walt Disney World in 2004, Lacee especially loved her time in the Magic Kingdom with her family.
Following the trip, Bert reflected on his experience:
“I got the honor of riding with Lacee in the parade. Here she comes in her beautiful new Cinderella dress to be the Grand Marshal, and it was awesome. She was waving at everybody on both sides. When the parade was over, Lacee was with her parents, and somebody brought over a glass slipper and gave it to her. I just lost it. Hanging out with her and all the kids as Grand Marshals in the Walt Disney World parade is something I’ll never ever forget and I’ll always cherish.”
-Bert during The Bert Show’s 2004 broadcast in Walt Disney World
Lacee was truly one-of-a-kind and loved music and her family. She held a special place in the hearts of the Bert’s Big Adventure staff and everyone who had the honor of meeting her. She was inspiring, kind hearted, and beautiful.
“Lacee was the cutest and sweetest 4-year-old girl you’ve ever seen when I met her two decades ago. In those few short days, she truly stole my heart. I remember thinking at the time, as the Bert’s Big Adventure Family Reunion Adventures program had not been established yet, that I may never see her smiling little face again. I remember how heartbroken I was thinking those thoughts, but that doesn’t compare to how heartbroken I am now. Rest in peace, sweet Lacee.”
– Dr. Tom McQuail, Bert’s Big Adventure Medical Volunteer
Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve.
With the heaviest hearts, we share the news that Linda Ceron, 22, passed away on January 14, 2023. Linda joined Bert’s Big Adventure and went to Walt Disney World with us in 2012.
Linda was born with spina bifida, which primarily led to disabilities affecting the use of her legs. In the month following her birth, Linda underwent three surgeries. In total, Linda bravely withstood 38 surgeries in her lifetime.
Linda held a special place in not only the hearts of the Bert’s Big Adventure staff, but everyone who had the honor of meeting her. She was inspiring, funny, caring, and sassy. Linda loved her family and made sure they knew it. She didn’t let anything get in her way of living life to its fullest.
“Linda’s ability to live life to its fullest and how courageous she was made you quickly forget about her disabilities. One example of her courage and love for her family was when her brother Benjamin fell and broke his arm while on the Disney trip. She ensured her parents focused on him by assuring them that she would be fine while they accompanied him to the hospital in Orlando. Linda made me, Dr. Michelle, call and check on him multiple times while he was there until she was satisfied that he was going to be okay. Her mom, Claudia, said it best when she said that Linda was a gift from God for 22 years. She will be greatly missed by all of us who were fortunate enough to get to know her.”
– Dr. Tom and Dr. Michelle (Members of Bert’s Big Adventure’s Volunteer Medical Staff)
During the 5-day trip to Walt Disney World in 2012, Linda especially enjoyed the visit to Cinderella’s castle and the presents and souvenirs she received.
Following the trip, Bert asked Linda’s parents what they took away from the experience:
“Seeing our daughter so happy and watching her become a star was priceless. Not worrying about Linda’s condition or the next surgery was awesome. It’s hard to be seen differently for having a child with disabilities, but everyone is the same on the trip. We all go through the same things. We understand each other. We are one.”
– Claudia and Carlos Ceron
With the heaviest hearts, we share the news that Malakai Walker, 10 years old, passed away on Monday, January 2, 2023. Malakai went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2022.
At age 8, Malakai was diagnosed with High-Grade Diffuse Glioma, a glial cell tumor found in the brain, but his family prioritized Malakai’s favorite activities.
He loved spending time with his family more than anything else. Malakai was one of 7 remarkable siblings – whom he adored. When asked about his hobbies, he said he loved spending time with his football team and making memories with his family.
Malakai was one-of-a-kind. He was strong, resilient, hopeful, and kind. He was always thinking about others and what he could do to make them feel special. Malakai reminded everyone at Bert’s Big Adventure about what is essential in life – to love with your whole heart, the power of positive thinking can get you very far, and always tell people how much you love them.
Malakai had quite a special gift in being able to write beautifully touching songs. During Bert’s Big Adventure’s trip to Disney, a group of families and staff spent the afternoon at the pool cooling off from the heat in the parks. Everyone was enjoying their time together when Malakai told Bert about a song he had written for his family. He proceeded to sing three songs he wrote about his family.
“I’ve met a lot of people in my life, and there are just a handful of people that I can say – I knew their kindness before they ever spoke. One of them was Muhammad Ali. You could feel his love, and you could feel your kindness. Malakai, I hope you know you have that. I knew how kind you were before I ever talked to you.”
– Bert Weiss, co-founder of Bert’s Big Adventure
On our last day in Walt Disney World, Bert asked Malakai if there was any advice Malakai wanted to share with the listeners:
“No matter what it is that you’re going through, no matter hard it is, you can get through it. Have hope and a good spirit.”
– Malakai
Malakai’s journey was documented through a community Facebook page, Malakai Strong. The most recent update reads, “To our family near and far (because that’s what Malakai called you) It is with great sadness that I let you know that our boy has gained his wings. No more seizures, no more pain. He is cancer free and with the angels. Thank you to each and every one of you for loving our boy. His job here in the physical is complete. Now he is doing what he always has done and that’s being our guardian angel. Love y’all”
Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve.
“One family. One fight.”
– Candice Walker, Malakai’s mom
With the heaviest hearts, we share the news that Zachary “Zach” Tuttle, 15 years old, passed away on Friday, January 28th, 2022. Zach went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2013.
At birth, Zach was diagnosed with Eagle-Barrett Syndrome, a congenital condition characterized by the absence of abdominal wall muscles. However, Zachary’s family prioritized activities like horseback riding and horse therapy so that Zachary’s wheelchair didn’t define him.
In 2013, Bert’s Big Adventure asked Zach what he wanted to be when he grew up, and he responded, “A weatherman. I like Chesley McNeil on 11Alive.” Zach’s father, Jason, told Bert that Chesley’s voice could stop him in his tracks and that he would be mesmerized the entire time Chesley was on his screen.
Hearing this, Bert’s Big Adventure and The Bert Show partnered with the gracious Chesley McNeil and the big hearts at 11Alive to make Zach’s meteorologist dream a reality. During the Bert’s Big Adventure Send-Off broadcast, Zach went live on-air with Chelsey and helped deliver the weekend weather on 11Alive. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
It was clear from the beginning that Zachary shared an immediate bond with Bert’s Big Adventure’s Chairwoman of the Board, Kristin Klingshirn. The two shared many special moments during the trip to Disney and throughout the years at Family Reunion Adventures.
“Zach was encompassed in a special light. He spoke through his eyes, which were always full of wonder and love. He and his incredible hugs will be incredibly missed.” – Kristin Klingshirn
Zachary is survived by his incredible parents and his beloved sister, Samantha. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of this precious child.
“As I sit here still processing the events of today, all I can say is be kind to all, love like it’s your last day, enjoy the moment as it happens and forgive all grudges. My sweet Zachary taught me all of those things.” – Jason Tuttle
With the heaviest of hearts, we share the news that Ares Dobson, 13 years old, passed away on Wednesday, December 8, 2021. Ares went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2017.
Ares Dobson was 3-years-old when he was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type II, a condition characterized by progressive muscle weakness that put him in a wheelchair. His parents said their son doesn’t let illness or the wheelchair define him. They asked him what he’d be if he could become anything.
“I want to be a normal boy,” he said. “One who can run, walk and play.”
“It was pretty apparent when we met Ares that he had the heart of a Jedi already. We just made it official!”- Bert Weiss
For Ares to fulfill all his Master Jedi duties after the trip, he’d need no limits. Bert’s Big Adventure and The Bert Show partnered with Moe’s Southwest Grill locations in Atlanta to get Ares a waterproof all-terrain motorized wheelchair. His grateful parents said the unlimited access to everything – like beaches, mountains, and trails – changed his life.
Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of this sweet and loving child.
2003 – 2020
Bert’s Big Adventure 2011
It is with the deepest sadness that we share the news that 17-year-old Cesar Urbina passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2020. Cesar was only 18 months old when doctors diagnosed him with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that progresses rapidly. After numerous years of subsequent treatments and relapses, the cancer returned. Cesar, along with his parents, Arcedalia and Jose, and his two brothers, Oscar and Fernando, went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2011.
“One of my favorite memories of Cesar was from a night in Disney when we had a surprise dance party for the families. At the time, Cesar was a huge Justin Bieber fan and we asked the DJ to play one of his songs. I was so surprised to see how much Cesar’s eyes lit up at the sound of Justin’s music. He had been pretty reserved leading up to the trip, but he totally came out of his shell on the dance floor that night. It was awesome to see him let his guard down and just enjoy dancing with his new friends and family. Cesar was such a fun-loving kid. We’ll miss him so much.” – Molly Darby, Executive Director of Bert’s Big Adventure
2013 – 2019
Bert’s Big Adventure 2018
It is with the deepest heartache and greatest love that we share the news that 8-year-old LJ Tucker passed away on Monday, September 23, 2019, following the diagnosis of a rare terminal brain cancer, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), in April of 2017. LJ, along with his mom, Crystal; dad, Chris; and sisters Alyssa and Ariana went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2018.
The Georgia boy’s battle with the disease was documented on the Facebook group “Prayers for LJ Tucker.” It inspired nearly 3,000 supporters to follow along and created a wealth of awareness around the struggles of DIPG. The most recent update from the page reads: “At 12:15 on September 23rd, 2019, surrounded by his family LJ Tucker hung his Superman Cape up and Gained His Angel Wings. He is now dancing in the sky. Please keep Crystal and Chris in your prayers, as today is their anniversary. This Precious young man put up a fight like no other he truly earned the name Superman!”
“My last memory of LJ is of he and Kristin bellowing together with laughter after playing a practical joke on me. LJ was so charming and a true joy to anybody that took time to talk with him. Watching him drive the golden spike at the Atlanta United game while the entire supporters’ section cheered his name was a magical night. And the look on his face reading his own name on the Atlanta United scoreboard will forever be imprinted in my memory of him.” – Bert Weiss
“I met LJ on the 2018 Bert’s Big Adventure trip. It didn’t take long for me to discover that behind his big smile was an even bigger heart. I remember that he insisted on carrying my backpack around Disney one day. It was my job to make him feel special, but instead, he made me feel special. LJ, my heart is broken but I will always remember you with a big smile.” – Love, Dr. Michelle
1995 – 2019
Bert’s Big Adventure 2007
We are heartbroken to share the news that Jatiana Hunt, 24 years old, passed away on Thursday, February 28th, after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in January 2019. Jatiana went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2007.
“Jatiana and her family were a true Bert’s Big Adventure family. She was just a child when she joined our family in 2007. And for 12 years, she and her family immersed themselves in Bert’s Big Adventure. Her warm smile, kindness, and sense of ease will always be what I remember about her.”- Bert Weiss
“What I remember most about Jatiana is how much she cared for the people around her and how selfless she was. When we went to Disney in 2007 it was one of the coldest trips we ever had and Jatiana kept offering her jacket to others. I will always remember what a happy, optimistic, and loving person Jatiana was. We are all better people for knowing a beautiful spirit like Jatiana. Thank you for your love and friendship. We all will miss Jatiana so much.” – Nurse Cathy Robinson
2012 – 2018
Bert’s Big Adventure 2018
We are heartbroken to share the news that Braxton Dollar, 6 years old, passed away on Sunday, June 3rd, after his diagnosis of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). DIPGs are highly aggressive, cancerous brain tumors found in the brainstem. Braxton went to Walt Disney World with Bert’s Big Adventure in 2018.
The Carrollton, Georgia, boy’s battle with DIPG, as shown on the Facebook group “Battling for Braxton,” inspired many to follow his journey. It was on this community page that the family wrote, “Our hearts are completely shattered! Braxton left his broken body and went to heaven to be with Jesus this evening at 9:25 pm. He passed in a peaceful sleep while surrounded by family. #battlingforbraxton #dollarstrong #BraxtonLeviDollar #standingonfaith.”
Braxton told Bert’s Big Adventure he loved country music, John Deere, Monster Jam, and the Disney Pixar’s movie, Cars. In particular, he loved the character Mater. But most of all he loved being with his family.
“Braxton and I shared countless moments on this trip that will be imprinted in my brain forever. He had such positivity, and that positivity seemed to help fuel him and keep him going for those five days in Disney–he was the life of the party! One of those memories was at the grand finale of the trip, our dance party. Confetti comes down from the ceiling while the last song of the night is playing. All of a sudden you see Braxton hurrying to the dance floor, and he lies down on his back and starts making snow angels in the confetti. Then he started stuffing his pockets with confetti to take it back to his hotel room to enjoy later on. It was such an awesome moment,” said Bert Weiss.
Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of this sweet and loving child.
2011 – 2017
Bert’s Big Adventure 2017
“So, I look around, and there are three grown men and three boys all rocking gold nail polish that Karma has applied to all of our nails. Karma demanded that all the boys apply nail polish on the Bert’s Big Adventure trip and you just don’t say no to Karma. She’s way too adorable for that! That was Karma. She brought so much joy, fun, and life to our Bert’s Big Adventure families. Karma was put on earth to make other people smile and feel warm. We will forever remember her as the bubbly, carefree child running around bringing a little joy to everyone’s life.”
– Bert Weiss
2003 – 2017
Bert’s Big Adventure 2013
“Ziyonn’s smile was nonstop. That sweet kid was always smiling, and every time he came to a Bert’s Big Adventure event, everyone – families and staff, alike – would light up with excitement to see him and make their way across the room to be the first to talk to him. We will miss Ziyonn so much.”
– Bert Weiss
1993 – 2017
Bert’s Big Adventure 2005
Our Bert’s Big Adventure family is heartbroken to learn that 23-year-old Christopher Romero passed away on Monday, January 23, 2017. Christopher attended Bert’s Big Adventure’s annual trip to Walt Disney World in 2005; he was just 12 years old at the time.
“He was a light. I don’t know how to describe it any better than that. He was just a bright, shining light. You couldn’t help but look at Christopher and just be in a great mood when you saw him smile. He was such a special kid and we will never forget him. I’m so glad that he was part of the trip and so thankful for the time we had together.” – Bert Weiss
Christopher’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 28th at 2 p.m. at Henry Baptist Church. Please keep this sweet family in your thoughts and prayers.
2006 – 2017
Bert’s Big Adventure 2017 Honorary Family Member
William Reece Dodson, age 10, of Fairburn, Georgia, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2017, at his residence. He was born in Riverdale on April 9, 2006, to William Dodson and Jessica Pickering.
He is survived by: his parents; maternal grandparents, Carroll and Rob Longnecker of Fairburn; paternal grandmother, Laura Mullis of Palmetto; sister, McKenzie Dodson of Stockbridge; brothers, Parker Dodson of Stockbridge and Jayce Dodson of Hiram.
Reece was chosen to attend Bert’s Big Adventure this year, 2017. Please join the Bert’s Big Adventure family as we keep this family in our thoughts and prayers.
2004 – 2016
Bert’s Big Adventure 2014
“Austin was an inspiration to everybody at Bert’s Big Adventure. He was a sweet kid that fought so bravely. He genuinely touched all he came in contact with.”
– Bert Weiss
2007 – 2015
Bert’s Big Adventure 2015 Honorary Family Member
“One of the toughest kids I’ve ever met, Bert’s Big Adventure’s Lake Bozman went to heaven this morning. The smiles that he and his family wore for three hours as a contracted member of the Atlanta Hawks is forever how I will remember him and the joy his family shared together.”
– Bert Weiss
2002 – 2015
Bert’s Big Adventure 2014
“The thing that we remember the most was Anthony’s strength – emotionally and physically. Our most vivid memory of Anthony from the 2014 trip to Walt Disney World was him giving piggy-back rides to the staff members. He loved Goofy, WWE Wrestling and cooking. During this difficult time, please pray for peace and strength for his family; mom, Juliana; dad, Theo; sister, Jeanette; and brother, Nathan. Bert’s Big Adventure will always remember Anthony for his strength and smile. We will miss you, Anthony.”
– Stacey and Bert Weiss
2007 – 2015
“Although Jayla was unable to attend our Bert’s Big Adventure trip, we still consider her and her family part of the Bert’s Big Adventure family. The Myers’ faith and strength through their difficult battle was inspiring, to say the least.”
– Bert Weiss
1994 – 2013
Bert’s Big Adventure 2003
“Our hearts are heavy with sadness; however, we take great comfort in knowing that Haleigh was able to have her wish come true by going to see the beach with her mother.” – Bert and Stacey Weiss
1995 – 2013
Bert’s Big Adventure 2006
Shawn-Teek Tillery lost his battle to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy on
Tuesday, November 19th. Shawn was part of the 2006 Bert’s Big Adventure trip; we will truly miss his constant and uplifting smile.
1998 – 2011
Bert’s Big Adventure 2007
“It’s with sad hearts that we announce that Gunner Mitchell, of the 2007 Bert’s Big Adventure trip, lost his battle with Pulmonary Hypertension on Wednesday, October 12, 2011. Gunner loved Goofy! The Bert’s Big Adventure staff will miss this kind, gentle little boy. Our hearts go out to Gunner’s family and friends.” – Stacey Weiss
2000 – 2011
Bert’s Big Adventure 2009
“Matty’s favorite things were trains and, as his mom stated, Matty took his final train ride to heaven where he will have no more pain.” – Bert Weiss
2005 – 2011
Bert’s Big Adventure 2011
“Jessi passed away just weeks before she was set to take the Bert’s Big Adventure 2011 trip. Jessi’s mom told us that Jessi hoped that one day she could fly like Tinkerbelle and we believe she has had her wish fulfilled.” – Stacey Weiss
1992 – 2007
Bert’s Big Adventure 2006
“Even during Destany’s sickest days she always had a smile on her face when I would go to see her. Destany taight me a lot about faith and courage. Kids can teach you so much if you listen”
– Nurse Cathy
1994 – 2007
Bert’s Big Adventure 2007
“After James passed away I happened to meet a friend of his. He told me that when he was new to school and having a hard time adjusting, James was the first to step up and be his friend.” – Dr. Michelle
1995 – 2007
Bert’s Big Adventure 2004
“I will never forget sitting next to the pool with Christopher’s mom and grandmother as Bert wheeled him into the swimming pool for the very first time. The look on his face was priceless.” – Jenn Hobby
1992 – 2005
Bert’s Big Adventure 2004
“The one thing I’ll never forget about Bobby was his smile. Man, all that kid did was smile. It was so contagious. He’d light up the room when he was in it.”
– Bert Weiss
It is with the deepest heartache and greatest love that we share the news that our dear friend, role model, and Bert’s Big Adventure volunteer, Jason Rowell, passed away recently.