Make-A-Wish Greater VA Makes a Dream Come True in Strasburg

Her bright spirit conveys an unawareness of the challenges she has faced in her brief life, or at least a casual dismissal. Her positive attitude sets the tone for any environment she enters. Her name is Abigail Stallard.

A resilient family. L to R, Adriana Stallard, Gunnar Stallard, Devin Stallard, and Abigail Stallard. Royal Examiner Photo Credits: Brenden McHugh

On June 28, at the Town Park, the Strasburg community, including first responders, the mayor, and vice-mayor, came together to give Abigail an overwhelming vote of confidence as she anticipates a trip to Disney World, made possible by Make-A-Wish Greater VA. With emergency vehicles flashing their lights in solidarity with this brave young lady as she arrived at the park with her family, Strasburg demonstrated the lengths it would go to acknowledge a princess.

Strasburg first responders came together to support Abigail Stallard.

Her mother, Adriana Stallard, gave the Royal Examiner insight into her daughter’s background.

“Abigail is 4 years old and has faced more challenges in her short life than most people do in a lifetime. She was born prematurely and spent the first three months of her life in the NICU. She has a rare genetic condition called Cat Eye Syndrome (partial tetrasomy 22), along with several other complex medical conditions, including Pierre Robin sequence, hemifacial microsomia, hearing loss, and airway challenges. She has a tracheostomy and a feeding tube and has undergone numerous surgeries and hospitalizations.

Despite everything she’s endured, Abigail is one of the happiest little girls you’ll ever meet. She has the sweetest smile and loves making people laugh. She enjoys music, books, bubbles, and being outside. She loves all things Disney—especially Mickey Mouse and the Disney princesses.

This Make-A-Wish trip comes at the perfect time. Just a few weeks after we return from Disney, Abigail will travel to Boston Children’s Hospital for a major jaw reconstruction surgery that will require a lengthy recovery. We hope that this wish gives her and our family a chance to be together, make joyful memories, and let her be a kid before facing another difficult chapter.

Our relationship with Make-A-Wish has been incredible from the beginning. They have made Abigail feel special, and the kindness they’ve shown our family has been overwhelming. This send-off celebration is another reminder of how much our community has supported us, especially over the last six months.

Above all, we wouldn’t be able to do any of this without God. Through every diagnosis, surgery, setback, and victory, He has been faithful and has carried our family through every high and low. Our faith has been our foundation, and we truly believe His love, grace, and the support He’s provided through so many people have brought us to this moment.

Volunteers for Make-A-Wish Greater VA, Lisa Hockersmith (L) and Cheree Carter (R).

Of Strasburg, Vice-Mayor Ashleigh Kimmons (L) and Mayor Brandy Boies (R).

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this possible, including Make-A-Wish and our local community. We hope it reminds others that even in the hardest circumstances, there is still room for hope, joy, and a little bit of Disney magic.”

Perhaps there is a lot of Disney magic. With a departure date set for July 13, Abigail and her family would appreciate the prayers of the greater Virginia community.

Special thanks to Frank Amari at Anthony’s Pizza in Front Royal for providing the pizza. Anthony’s Pizza supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation.