When you wish upon a star: Dream comes true for local youth

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Since its founding, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has fulfilled more than 110,000 wishes worldwide, and now 5-year-old Abby Achtermann of Wilmington can be added into that number as her wish was granted this month.

Abby had the opportunity to travel to Orlando and experience the magic of Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, and Give Kids the World Village — a magical resort dedicated to housing wish kids and their families.

While in Orlando, Abby participated in dance parties, parades, and the option to eat ice cream at any time of the day. Abby was also able to enjoy many rides that were wheelchair accessible. Her wish provided a week with no limitations or medical worries.

Abby has a rare chromosome disorder that has caused limited mobility, speech impairments, and developmental delays. Amidst all of these ongoing medical issues — she is a joyful and loving girl.

Abby’s wish was funded by the Chi Omega Fraternity at Morehead State University. Both of Abby’s parents, Brent and Brooke Achtermann of Wilmington, are graduates of MSU.

The family was able to travel down to their alma mater for a night dedicated to Abby. A campus talent show was held and over $10,000 was raised for the Make-A-Wish foundation. Over 15 student organization performed to a sold out auditorium.

Abby is a preschool student at East End Elementary and a team captain for the Little Hearts Big Smiles 5K that is held in the spring at the LHBS playground.

Abby is a student at East End Elementary in Wilmington
https://www.wnewsj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2019/11/web1_News-Journal-Abby.jpgAbby is a student at East End Elementary in Wilmington Courtesy photos

The Actermanns, including Abby’s sister Elaina, a student at Holmes Elementary, enjoy one of the rides as part of Abby’s special wish.
https://www.wnewsj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2019/11/web1_abby-rides.jpgThe Actermanns, including Abby’s sister Elaina, a student at Holmes Elementary, enjoy one of the rides as part of Abby’s special wish. Courtesy photos

Abby’s wish was funded by the Chi Omega Fraternity at Morehead State University, from which her parents graduated.
https://www.wnewsj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2019/11/web1_follies-sign.jpgAbby’s wish was funded by the Chi Omega Fraternity at Morehead State University, from which her parents graduated. Courtesy photos
Dream comes true for local youth

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