Classmates cheered as Carrigan Caston learned her dream vacation is finally coming true.
CIBOLO, Texas — There were tears, cheers and plenty of cupcakes inside a San Antonio elementary classroom Wednesday after a little girl battling leukemia received the surprise of a lifetime.
First-grader Carrigan Caston was surrounded by classmates at Wiederstein Elementary School when representatives from Make-A-Wish Foundation revealed she’ll be heading on a weeklong trip to Walt Disney World and other Orlando-area theme parks.
For Carrigan’s family, the moment felt almost impossible to believe.
“It’s unbelievable — kind of hard to comprehend,” her father, U.S. Army Maj. Brian Caston, said during the celebration. “This is a chance to celebrate, especially since she finishes her treatments in three months.”
Carrigan spent much of kindergarten learning from home while undergoing treatment for leukemia before returning to campus this school year.
Wednesday’s celebration transformed her classroom into a party filled with balloons, treats and gift bags as classmates joined in the excitement.
Ashley Garcia with Make-A-Wish said donations from supporters will cover every part of the family’s upcoming trip, including travel expenses.
One of the people especially touched by the moment was Jennifer Mills, Carrigan’s former homebound teacher, who helped her continue learning during treatment.
“There were good days and tough days,” Mills said. “I feel very fortunate to have been part of her journey.”
Carrigan and her family are scheduled to leave for their wish trip May 17.
