Stratford Girl Gets Parade After Make-A-Wish Trip Postponed

STRATFORD, CT — Stratford recently came together to brighten the day of a girl whose Make-A-Wish trip was postponed due to the new coronavirus outbreak.

Daniela is a 7-year-old Stratford resident who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor and hoped to celebrate her birthday in March at Walt Disney World Resort with the help of the nonprofit, according to Make-A-Wish Connecticut, which did not provide Daniela's last name. When the trip was delayed, the Stratford community stepped in, participating in a car parade outside her house to show their support.

“The parade went off even better than planned,” said Make-A-Wish Connecticut spokeswoman Carin Buckman in an email.

The event included Stratford police, the town emergency medical service team and the fire department, as well as classic cars and a truck from Fire Engine Pizza Co., according to Make-A-Wish Connecticut. The parade took place near the Shakespeare theater property on April 29, marking the 40th anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish.

Make-A-Wish Connecticut grants nearly 250 wishes per year for children with critical illnesses.