By Shelby Grasser, Assistant Manager – Corporate Citizenship, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products
“You can do really anything to raise money for cancer. Anything in the world. You just have to do something. So get after it!” That was the message from Walker Beery (age 9) to kids all across the country, rallying them to get involved in the fight against pediatric cancer – a fight Walker knew all too well. Drawing from their son’s fight and spirit, our next Disney Magic Makers have dedicated their lives to raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research after Walker was diagnosed in 2017. Rather than letting the disease consume their lives, this incredible family you’re about to meet brought together kids & communities all across the country through bake sales, fun runs, bracelet sales and lemonade stands to raise funds and spread awareness for the cause. In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, meet Taylor and Angel Beery.
Walker Beery’s strength and story has inspired a community and kids across the country. Born in New Orleans, Walker loved sports, Mardi Gras and his friends & family with a zest for life. At age 7 he was unexpectedly diagnosed with brain cancer and passed on in Sept. 2021. While in the hospital for treatment, Walker told his parents he wanted to inspire other kids to help fight pediatric cancer. The group “Kids Join The Fight” was born from this act of kindness and has kicked off a grassroots movement of kids and families around the country. Fun runs, lemonade stands, bracelet sales and football clinics have popped up in all 50 states this year raising over $400,000 (with a goal of at least $1,000,000 by the end of the year) and critical awareness for pediatric cancer research.
Taylor & Angel, with the support, creativity and action of kids in communities all across the country, will continue to lead Walker’s charge through Kids Join The Fight.
We are proud to honor and highlight The Beery family as Disney Magic Makers. To nominate a local hero to become a Disney Magic Maker, visit DisneyMagicMakers.com by Oct. 1.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Enter the contest before October 1, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., who are 18 years of age at time of entry. Nominees must be at least 13 years of age at time of nomination. Limit 5 entries per person. See Official Rules for full details on how to enter, eligibility requirements, contest entry periods, prize description and limitations. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, Inc., 500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521.