runDisney Celebrated Charity Spotlight: Make-A-Wish Central & Northern Florida

Make-A-Wish Central & Northern Florida is the celebrated charity of the 2024 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend.

Hi there, my name is Jordan White! Not only am I proud to be a Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida staff member, but I’m also proud to be running the Neverland 5K as part of the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend to raise awareness and necessary funds for an incredible mission.

I feel nothing but excitement as it combines two of my passions: runDisney and making a difference. Let me share why...

At 19, I found myself facing a diagnosis: a rare blood disorder and anemia. Being diagnosed with a critical illness is a journey filled with ups and downs, moments of fear and doubt, and the constant struggle to find the light in the darkness. I’ve had a glimpse at how hard it can be to navigate medical challenges which is how I found myself on a mission to give back and help create light in someone else's storm.

That's where Make-A-Wish comes in. Their mission is to grant life-changing wishes to children facing critical illnesses. It's about more than fulfilling a wish though. It's about providing an experience that instills hope, strength, and joy for these brave kids and their families.

My journey with runDisney began in 2021 when my mom and I decided to tackle our first race together. Despite her own health battles with cancer and lupus, she joined me with nothing but determination. Each time we crossed the finish line, I couldn't help but express how proud I was, not just for the insanely early morning wake-up calls but for her incredible strength.

Recently, we achieved a milestone by completing the Disney Princess Half Marathon – our first half marathon together. Around mile seven, I was hit with emotions. I couldn’t help but reflect on both of our journeys and how far we have both come. These runDisney races will forever hold a special place in my heart as something my mom and I are able to work towards and achieve together. (They tend to be some of my favorite moments of light.)

So, for me, running in the Neverland 5K isn't just about crossing the finish line – it's about running for wishes. It’s about creating moments of magic, one mile at a time. It's about giving kids the chance to experience the joy and wonder of being a kid, even during their toughest battles.

Whether you're a runDisney athlete, a Make-A-Wish supporter, or simply someone who believes in the power of wishes, there's a place for you in this journey to create a bit of hope and possibility.

Join me as we run for the children whose lives will be forever changed by the power of a wish.