In an incredible partnership between local nonprofit Give Kids The World (an 89-acre whimsical resort offering critically ill children and their families magical, worry-free vacations) and kid-focused entertainment company Hasbro, two alumni GKTW children will have the awesome opportunity to act alongside their favorite super heroes! As part of the immensely popular YouTube series PJ Masks: In Real Life, Wish Kids Kellan Hoang and Madison Hendrickson got to write and star in their very own episodes!
We were so thrilled to be invited to a special screening of Kellan’s and Madison’s PJ Masks appearances. Thank you, Give Kids The World, for inviting us out!
Do you know the PJ Masks?
Originally airing on Disney Junior in 2015, PJ Masks follows the story of Connor, Amaya, and Greg – regular kids by day, and “baddie” fighting heroes by night! Using the power of their pajamas and animal amulets, the children transform into Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko. Parents and children alike are inspired and motivated by the show’s themes of inclusion, imagination, compassion, and teamwork.
A recurring part of the PJ Masks official YouTube channel, PJ Masks: In Real Life features the same beloved characters and themes – but with live actors! These wildly successful videos boast over 300 million lifetime views since the series premiere in October 2020. Now, let’s meet the newly minted stars – Kellan and Madison!
Kellan Hoang
A resident of Roseville, California, Kellan was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in 2019. Only four years old at the time, this brave hero is now cancer-free!
Madison Hendrickson
From Portland, Oregon, Madison has a condition called hypotonic cerebral palsy. Coupled with rare genetics, Madison’s situation is definitely complex! But even while battling this difficult illness, Madison actively chooses happiness and joy. You can watch her episode of PJ Masks: In Real Life here.
“We are excited to support real life little heroes and our friends at Give Kids The World. Together, we aim to empower families everywhere with the tremendous power of hope. Like the PJ Masks Madison and Kellan are strong and courageous, even through difficult times. We loved seeing their imaginations come to life as they crafted and acted out adventures in episodes of PJ Masks: In Real Life,” said eOne/Hasbro Entertainment Brand Marketing Senior Vice President Jessica Murphy.
A Special Screening of PJ Masks: In Real Life
To celebrate these new videos, Give Kids The World hosted a special screening featuring remarks from President Pamela Landwirth, live animal encounters, and even personal meet and greets with Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko! With an assortment of games, crafts, and giveaways; yesterday’s screening was a unique opportunity for Wish families and the media to dive into the world of PJ Masks.
Hasbro, A Treasured Partner of Give Kids The World
For more than 15 years, Hasbro Entertainment has provided steady and invaluable support to Give Kids The World Village. From the design and financial backing of important Village venues to monetary donations, Hasbro plays an important role in making dreams come true for these special families.
Watch PJ Masks: In Real Life and Support Give Kids The World!
Tune into the PJ Masks Official YouTube channel for additional PJ Masks: In Real Life videos, or visit pjmasks.com to learn more about these stories and characters!
“We are delighted to work with our wonderful partners at Hasbro and PJ Masks to showcase the stories and talents of our own little superheroes,” said Give Kids The World President and CEO Pamela Landwirth. “Children with critical illnesses face unimaginable challenges every day, and we appreciate the opportunity to create awareness for the courage of wish families and the tremendous power of hope.”
As a nonprofit organization, Give Kids The World depends on the generosity of corporate sponsors and the local community. Visit gktw.org to learn more about its important programs and how you can help inspire hope for these incredible children!
