Jaliah

For 13-year-old Jaliah, a trip to Disney wasn’t just a vacation—it was a powerful reminder that joy and magic still exist, even in the midst of the hardest battles. Thanks to Pretzel Wishes, that dream became a reality filled with wonder, adventure, and hope.

Jaliah has been facing a tough journey. She was first diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in February 2024 and remained inpatient from February through June, undergoing intensive treatment. Just two months later, her family received heartbreaking news—Jaliah’s cancer had returned. In August 2024, she was diagnosed with early relapsed Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and began treatment once again with immense bravery.

Recognizing Jaliah’s incredible strength and the need for a meaningful escape, Brianna Sargent, MSW, a Leukemia and Lymphoma Social Worker in the Division of Oncology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, nominated Jaliah and her parents to receive a Pretzel Wishes trip. That nomination turned into a life-changing experience.

From the moment Jaliah stepped into Magic Kingdom, her face lit up with pure joy. She spent the day riding her favorite attractions—TRON Lightcycle / Run, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and Space Mountain—over and over again, never tiring of the thrills and laughter.

Whether she was soaring through the stars, singing along with Princess Tiana, or racing through the digital world of TRON, Jaliah wasn’t thinking about hospitals or treatments—she was just a 13-year-old girl, completely immersed in the magic of Disney.

Every moment—every laugh, every smile, every ride—was a chance for Jaliah and her family to create new, joyful memories together.

At Pretzel Wishes, we believe critically ill children deserve more than medical care—they deserve magic, adventure, and the chance to just be kids. Jaliah’s story reminds us why this mission matters so deeply.

To Brianna, and to every compassionate professional who sees their patients not just as cases, but as children with dreams—thank you. Because of you, wishes like Jaliah’s come true. 💫