This little girl’s Disney dreams come true, despite suffering from an excitement-triggered neurological disorder.
Poppy Ikins, from Norfolk, UK, was six years old when she was surprised with her dream trip to Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida, USA, to meet her favourite princess, Cinderella.
However, there were concerns over her fun-filled trip due to her epilepsy that is triggered by excitement.
Mum, Hollie Ikins, said: “Visiting Disney World is always a risk for us – Poppy’s epilepsy is triggered by excitement, so we have to be extra careful.
“Before she met Cinderella, we made sure she took her medication, hoping to prevent a seizure… and then the most magical moment happened.”
Hollie started to notice Poppy’s triggers were heightened on Christmas Day, birthdays, and any exciting events they did together.
After three years of fighting for a diagnosis and tests, Hollie was diagnosed with epilepsy and put on medication to control her seizures – which she takes twice a day.
Taking the risk, the family ensured Poppy was prepared to meet her favourite princess Cinderella.
The family’s wishes came true as the meet and greet went perfectly, describing the experience as magic and Cinderella as nothing but ‘kind and gentle’.
Poppy even received the ultimate magical experience as she danced and chatted to the iconic princess and even got a seat at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
Poppy, now nine years old, has visited the theme park many times across the years with her family, celebrating the special place that holds so many memories.
The emotional moment was shared to TikTok where over 5.4 million viewers were left overwhelmed by the heartwarming interaction.
Mum, Hollie, said: “Cinderella was beyond incredible. She was loving, kind, and so gentle with Poppy.
“She danced with her, chatted with her, and made her feel like a true princess. “Just when we thought the moment couldn’t get any more special, we had to wait for our table at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
“Since no one else was waiting, Cinderella came over and invited Poppy to sit with her, talking with her like they were best friends for what felt like forever.”
She added: “It was pure Disney magic, and a moment we will cherish forever.
“Our first-ever Disney World trip, and hands down, the most beautiful memory we could have ever wished for.
“Poppy was diagnosed at 6 after three years of us fighting for answers.
“Now she’s 9, strong, brave, and an absolute superhero!”