Days after leaving the United States for the first time, wish kid Danielle was walking through a forest in Ireland with a hunting falcon perched on her forearm. She was also an honored guest at a 13th century Irish castle, and had enjoyed Waterford Crystal factory tour that’s usually reserved for foreign dignitaries.

Danielle’s wish would’ve been fulfilled even if her visit to the Emerald Isle ended after the crystal factory tour. She wanted to see its master artists blow, cut, inspected and engrave the crystal into the incredible vases, stemware and other shapes that make Waterford famous. But wish granters added falconry, stays at historic castles and more to make her wish experience the most memorable time of her life.

The creative wish was the result of a lot of thinking from 13-year-old Danielle, said her mother, Sue. They discussed the trip during Danielle’s recuperation from leukemia, and decided the trip would be a great way to celebrate her return to health.

Sue still isn’t sure what inspired Danielle’s interest in Waterford Crystal, but it was clear she had an incredible time during the tour. Danielle and her cousin, Megan, met the staff, and they guided her as she crafted her own piece from a glob of red-hot molten crystal. Danielle experienced each step of the process, right up to engraving her name with a diamond pen.

“They were amazing with her,” Sue said.

After seeing the Waterford artisans at work, Danielle began a surprising tour of Ireland.

Each day, Danielle and her family traveled to a different part of Ireland. They spent three of the seven days in picturesque castles throughout the countryside.

Danielle’s visit to Ashford is certain to live in her memory. She stayed at the Ashford Castle Hotel, a landmark dating to the 1200s, where she and Megan enjoyed one of the largest suites. The staff also treated the family to an hour-long falconry lesson in the nearby woods, a horseback riding adventure and spa treatments. Sue says it was a perfect way for the family to celebrate Danielle’s recovery; it’s been just more than a year since her last treatment.

“To actually leave the country and the doctors and the treatments was just a freeing experience for us all,” Sue said. “It was just one special thing after another. It was more than we ever anticipated.”