Marty Lyons Foundation Grants Disney World Wish to Four-Year-Old at Fourth Annual Evening of Thanks Gala

The Marty Lyons Foundation recently hosted its Fourth annual "Evening of Thanks" Gala, which delivered an unforgettable moment of joy when four-year-old Ellie from Auburn, Massachusetts, discovered her wish to visit Disney World will be granted by the Foundation. The heartfelt surprise was revealed before more than 200 guests at the historic Bourne Mansion in Oakdale.

Ellie, who is courageously battling Opsoclonus Myoclonus Ataxia Syndrome, a rare neurological illness, was surrounded by princess characters when the Foundation announced her dream trip will take place in March 2026. The presentation was made possible through a collaboration with Creative Ministries Performing Arts Center of Oakdale and their “royal” cast of performers as well as students from Nassau BOCES, who combined, created a magical royal experience from start to finish.

During the emotional reveal, the Foundation crowned Ellie with the title of Princess of Courage in recognition of her remarkable strength throughout her treatment. Both Ellie and her older sister, Vivienne, received authentic princess dresses and handmade “Princess Casual Wear” created by the Nassau BOCES Fashion students, along with personal gifts from community partners such as JetBlue, Tanger Outlets of Deer Park and volunteers.

The Nassau BOCES students designed and constructed Disney-inspired costumes, programs, photo booth backdrop and props, stage backdrops, and custom centerpiece containers that transformed the gala venue. Upon entering the venue, guests were greeted by West Islip Girls Scout Juniors Troop 2555 as they handed out their handmade Rose Ornaments in honor of Ellie’s favorite princess, “Belle”.

Earlier in the afternoon, Nassau BOCES Cosmetology students welcomed Ellie at her Diamond Suite generously contributed by the Residence Inn East End Hotel in Riverhead, to style her hair and makeup in preparation for the evening's surprise.

"Every year, our Gala showcases our Foundation's enduring commitment to bringing hope, joy and strength to children and families navigating the most difficult circumstances. Through the dedication of donors, volunteers, students and our local community partners, the Marty Lyons Foundation continues its mission of creating life-changing moments for children like Ellie," said Marty Lyons, founder of the Marty Lyons Foundation and former New York Jets defensive lineman.
The gala also featured a tribute to Jessica, known as Pippy, another wish recipient who received her first Disney wish in 2002 and later received a second wish following a medical setback. In honor of her recent birthday, a cake created by BOCES Baking Skills students was presented to Pippy and guests signed a giant card created by Nassau BOCES graphics students to be delivered as a special surprise.

Marty Lyons Foundation also honored several longstanding board members for their years of contribution to the Foundation: Steven Kuperschmid, Warren Larkin, Don Gregory, and Bill Corbett, Jr.

Since 1982, the Marty Lyons Foundation has granted nearly 8,700 wishes. The organization, founded on Long Island, has expanded into a national organization with 11 chapters across 14 states.
For more information about the Marty Lyons Foundation, or to make a donation to assist in granting a wish, please visit, https://martylyonsfoundation.org/.