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Make-A-Wish Foundation surprises Valley girl with trip to Disneyland

Posted at 8:36 PM, Dec 05, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-06 15:19:36-05

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is making one little girl's dreams come true by taking her to the happiest place on earth. 

Four-year-old Annabelle Slater of Gilbert was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect at birth. Over the past four years, she has already had two open heart surgeries — her first surgery took place when she was just two weeks old.

And those surgeries certainly won't be the last.

Annabelle's mother, Jennifer, said doctors are hoping to delay surgeries for as long as possible, giving the young girl a break from the poking and prodding; a chance at a life of normalcy. 

"Considering everything she's been through in life she's always happy and she has got a contagious smile for sure," Jennifer said.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes for kids battling life-threatening medical conditions. Annabelle, a fan of all things Mickey Mouse, requested a trip to Disneyland. 

Annabelle can't talk, but her smile speaks volumes. 

Rana Ali, a Make-A-Wish employee, said she's never seen a child so excited about a cartoon character.

"It's clear right off the at that Mickey is what she wanted," Ali said.

On Tuesday the Annabelle's family met at Sky Harbor International Airport for a five day trip to Disneyland; a trip that Annabelle is sure to never forget.