Star Wars Enthusiasts Unite for an Inspiring Sendoff at Portland Airport
On Star Wars Day, a galaxy of kindness enveloped Portland International Airport as nearly 20 costumed Mandalorians, Rebel pilots, and a lone Stormtrooper gathered for five-year-old Raiden Pham’s celestial send-off. This interstellar celebration marked the beginning of Raiden’s Make-A-Wish journey to Disney’s Aulani resort in Hawaii, providing a joyful escape from his battle against an ultra-rare genetic disorder. Orchestrated by Make-A-Wish Oregon and local Star Wars clubs, the event transcended cosplay, highlighting the resilience and unity of the Pham family, who have tirelessly raised over $1.3 million for research into UBA5. As lightsabers shimmered and smiles brightened the terminal, Raiden’s father captured the magic of the moment with a heartfelt, “May the 4th be with you.” Yet, amidst this galactic celebration, what challenges and triumphs will the Pham family encounter on their extraordinary journey?
#StarWarsDay #MakeAWish #Portland #FamilySupport #GeneticDisorderAwareness #MayThe4thBeWithYou
Quick Takeaways:
- Portland International Airport marked Star Wars Day with a spirited sendoff for a young traveler.
- Nearly 20 costumed volunteers gathered to support a five-year-old child living with a rare genetic disorder.
- The effort was part of a Make-A-Wish Oregon event, in partnership with local Star Wars fan groups.
- Raiden Pham and his family were headed to Disney’s Aulani resort in Hawaii.
- The Pham family has raised over $1.3 million toward research and treatment for Raiden’s condition.
A Galactic Sendoff at PDX
On May 4th—Star Wars Day—Portland International Airport turned into an unexpected celebration of fandom and family. Nearly 20 volunteers arrived in costume, portraying Mandalorians, Rebel pilots, and even a lone Stormtrooper. Their mission? To give five-year-old Raiden Pham a tribute worthy of a Jedi as he headed out on a special Make-A-Wish trip.
An Important Departure for a Resilient Family
Raiden and his family were flying to Hawaii to visit Disney’s Aulani resort, a brief escape from the challenges they face every day. Raiden lives with an ultra-rare genetic disorder known as UBA5. The disease’s rarity means treatments are limited, making community support and awareness especially meaningful.
Bringing Star Wars to Life with Local Volunteers
Make-A-Wish Oregon worked with local Star Wars-themed groups to organize the surprise. It wasn’t only about the costumes or lightsabers—it was about bringing people together to show care and solidarity. Airport travelers and staff watched as Raiden walked through a corridor formed by fans holding glowing lightsabers overhead.
Mission: Hope
This event wasn’t just a celebration of a beloved movie franchise. It called attention to the Pham family’s wider effort. They’ve raised over $1.3 million to support research into Raiden’s condition, showing what’s possible when determination meets community support.
As Raiden made his way toward his gate with his family beside him, his father turned to the crowd and spoke four simple words that perfectly fit the moment: “May the 4th be with you.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Star Wars day sendoff for the child with a rare genetic disease?
The Star Wars day sendoff was a special tribute organized for a young child battling an ultra-rare genetic disease, where community members and Star Wars fans dressed as Star Wars characters to honor and uplift the child’s spirits on May the 4th.
Why did the child with the rare genetic disease receive a Star Wars-themed farewell?
The child was a devoted Star Wars fan, and the sendoff was organized to celebrate their love for the franchise while also offering comfort and joy during a very difficult time for the family.
What is an ultra-rare genetic disease in children?
An ultra-rare genetic disease is a health condition caused by mutations in a person’s genes, affecting very few individuals worldwide. These diseases often have serious, life-limiting symptoms and can be difficult to diagnose or treat.
How does the community support children with terminal illnesses?
Communities often come together by organizing events, fundraisers, and special experiences like themed sendoffs to bring joy and show support to children and their families during critical times.
When is Star Wars Day and why is it celebrated?
Star Wars Day is celebrated on May 4th each year, inspired by the phrase “May the Fourth be with you,” a play on the iconic line from the Star Wars films. Fans worldwide celebrate by dressing up, hosting events, and sharing their love for the franchise.
Can themed sendoffs like Star Wars Day help families cope with illness?
Yes, themed sendoffs can offer emotional support and cherished memories for families dealing with serious illnesses, allowing them to create joyful moments during heartbreaking times.
How can I help families with children who have rare diseases?
You can support families by donating to research foundations, participating in awareness campaigns, offering emotional support, or helping organize experiences that bring them hope and joy.
Filipino Translation:
Pag Star Wars Day, parang naging galaxy talaga ang Portland International Airport! Halos 20 fans pumorma bilang Mandalorians, Rebel pilots, at may isa pang Stormtrooper, para bigyan ng super cool na send-off si five-year-old Raiden Pham. Kasama ng pamilya niya, pupunta sila sa Disney’s Aulani resort sa Hawaii — wish nila ‘to through Make-A-Wish, and syempre, pahinga na rin from fighting his super rare genetic condition na tinatawag na UBA5.
Ang event na ’to, na inorganize ng Make-A-Wish Oregon at mga local Star Wars fans, hindi lang basta cosplay. Yung pamilya ni Raiden, naka-raise na ng over $1.3 million para sa research at treatment para sa condition niya — grabe ‘no? Ramdam mo talaga yung suporta at good vibes galing sa community. Habang dumadaan sila sa crowd na may hawak na lightsabers, ang dad ni Raiden pa nga ang nagsabi, “May the 4th be with you.”
Child with ultra-rare genetic disease gets Star Wars day sendoff was first published here.
