Disney screens ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ ahead of release for terminally-ill fan

Disney granted the dying wish of a terminally-ill Star Wars fan by letting him watch “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” ahead of its United States release on Dec. 20.

Rowans Hospice revealed the unnamed man’s wish last Tuesday, Nov. 26 via Twitter. The organization, which is based in Hampshire, United Kingdom, takes care of patients with life-limiting illnesses.

“Can you help? We have a patient who’s a HUGE #StarWars fan,” the hospice said.  “Sadly, time is not on his side for the 20th Dec.”

“His wish is to see the final Star Wars film #RiseOfSkywalker with his young son,” the hospice appealed. “If you know ANYBODY who might be able to make it happen, please share with them. Thank you.”

In a follow-up tweet, the hospice said it was their “most desperate hour” and asked the film’s director J.J. Abrams and actor Mark Hamill, who plays Luke Skywalker, for help.

The plea did not fall on deaf ears, as Disney chief executive officer Robert Iger soon got in contact with the organization. Days later, Iger revealed that Disney had granted the dying patient’s request.

“On this Thanksgiving, we at @Disney are grateful to be able to share #TheRiseOfSkywalker with a patient and his family @RowansHospice,” Iger stated in a post last Friday, Nov. 29. “May the force be with you and with us all!”

Moments after, the hospice said they received a laptop that contained the said movie from a certain Disney representative named Jonathan.

“Our amazing patient has now seen #StarWars #RiseofSkywalker with his son,” the organization declared.

The hospice later shared the patient’s gratitude to everyone who played a part in granting his wish.

“During what is just a horrible situation to be in,” the patient was quoted as saying, “you have helped to make some wonderful memories and bring some joy to my family.” JB

RELATED STORIES: 

5-year-old cancer survivor donates over $11,000 lemonade earnings to children’s hospital

Boy, 7, shaves head in support of friend with cancer

Read more...