Beach Park girl gets special princess birthday

Little Oliva Vuckovich of Beach Park is one step closer to seeing a dream come true.

On Saturday, Dec. 17, Make-A-Wish volunteers worked with local businesses to throw her a princess-themed birthday party in advance of her wish being granted next year.

While Vuckovich prepares for her big trip to Walt Disney World through the Make-A-Wish Foundation in 2012, she took some time away from doctor visits and treatments to celebrate her 4th birthday.

Olivia was diagnosed with VACTERL syndrome at birth, a genetic condition that causes a variety of medical issues.

Wish granters Jenifer and Greg Dosch of Round Lake planned the party as a way of keeping up Olivia’s spirits and building anticipation for her big wish trip.

Included in the party was a 30-minute Disney Princess play performed by 12 actors and actresses from The Neighborhood Players/Round Lake Area Park District theater group. In addition, Olivia was visited by 30 of the 2011 Lake County Community Queens.

This happened as Olivia and her guests enjoy lunch at the Best Western Hotel in Zion. Other businesses contributing to Olivia’s party included Marvaela’s from Fox Lake, invitations by MinuteMan Press in Gurnee, Optic Light Photography to document Olivia’s special day, cakes donated from Lovin’ Oven in Round Lake, Chef Paul Catering in Gurnee and cupcakes donated by Bridal Cakes by Ann in Zion.

The Zion Jewel also helped as well as numerous gifts from friends, family, and volunteers to make this afternoon a birthday to remember for Olivia.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich their lives with hope, strength and joy.

For more than 25 years, the Foundation has worked with volunteers and generous supporters to share the power of a wish® with special children across Illinois. For more information or to find out how you can help, call (312) 602-WISH or visit www.wishes.org.