Bert's Big Adventure children enjoy 2016 trip to Disney World

ATLANTA - Thirteen amazing local children enjoyed an unforgettable, free trip to Walt Disney World, thanks to Bert's Big Adventure. 

Every year, the non-profit organization provides a five-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Orlando to kids with chronic and terminal illnesses. The 2016 trip took place last month. 

Ahead of their special vacation, a huge send-off party took place near Atlanta's airport. It was a fun-filled morning full of music, Disney characters, face painting and a live broadcast of "The Bert Show," which is based in Atlanta.

Check out our photo gallery from the event! 

Following the send-off party, they flew to the happiest place on Earth! The families stayed at Disney's Polynesian Resort and kicked off the trip at the Living Seas at Epcot, where they were greeted by some special guests.

Day two of BBA 2016 was spent in the Magic Kingdom. The children, along with their families, had VIP access on Main Street and an exclusive view of Cinderella's castle. The girls were surprised with princess makeovers and the boys with pirate makeovers. 

The BBA trip included some other incredible experiences such as an animal-filled safari ride in the Animal Kingdom, riding on roller coasters, a dance party with Disney characters, fireworks and more.

BBA 2016 ended in emotional tears as parents read personalized letters to their children before the flight home. The letters were read during a live broadcast of "The Bert Show." 

“I have seen your face light up in ways I never thought were possible. I have seen huge smiles on your face for the last 3 days. I am so thankful for this magical time and this time I have been able to see you glow with happiness. I have had the time of my life with you Ashlynn, from Princess Elsa to the scary roller coasters, the smile on your face hasn't left," mother Rebecca Geringer told her 5-year-old daughter, who won her battle with leukemia. 

"It was a blessing to see all the smiles that come upon your face, the joy in your eyes," said Chassitty Hight. "You
deserve this baby boy.”

Hight's son, Nick, has stage three Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), also known as Brittle Bone Disease. It's a genetic disorder characterized by bones that break easily without or due to very minor trauma.

Click here to meet the other amazing BBA children. 

Bert’s Big Adventure was founded by Bert Weiss, the host of “The Bert Show,” and Stacey Weiss. It was established in 2002. To qualify for BBA, a child must be between the ages of 5-12, live in “The Bert Show” radio listening area, prove financial need and have never been to Walt Disney World. 

If you would like to donate, apply or nominate someone for Bert's Big Adventure, click here.