Janet Ramsdal, who lives in GEC’s Marano residence, celebrated her 49th birthday in a truly special way, spending a week with her parents in her favorite place to vacation, Walt Disney World. Janet is no stranger to the Disney parks and has been there over 30 times!
This trip was magical from the start, when before boarding, Janet approached George Gonzalez, the pilot of the United Airlines plane, and gave him a hug. Unbeknownst to the Ramsdal family, the pilot then arranged for the entire crew to welcome them onto the plane before anyone else. Towards the end of the flight, they announced it was Janet’s birthday and all of the passengers sang happy birthday to her. After everyone had gotten off the plane, Janet was welcomed into the cockpit, got to try on the pilot’s hat and jacket, and took pictures with the entire crew.
It was a great start to a trip that got even better once they arrived at her favorite attraction in Animal Kingdom, Festival of the Lion King, where she was treated like a queen. From their many visits there, the Ramsdal’s have become friendly with some of the staff and, prior to their arrival, reached out to Carmenza, a Disney employee who planned some extra special surprises for Janet. Carmenza arranged for VIP treatment for the family: the best seats, having Janet help lead a dance group and be in the parade in the show, having the audience sing happy birthday to her, and a private meet and greet with the entire cast after the show.
Recently, when at home with her family, they asked her to make her Christmas wish list. She wrote Festival of the Lion King. It looks like another trip to Disney is in Janet’s future!
