MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Some Shelby County students saw a chance to make a difference and they took it. Friday morning they made a young girl, battling a serious illness, very happy, and the joy spread throughout the crowd.

It was a morning of magic for four year old Alexa. She was a guest judge at Riverdale elementary School Friday.

What she didn't know, was that she was the guest of honor, thanks to the students and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

"It was incredibly exciting because I wasn't sure what was going to happen and it's just almost overwhelming it was so great," said Alexa's father, Scott Branum.

Branum says his wife called Make-A-Wish, hoping to fulfill their little girl's dream of going to Disney World. Alexa was diagnosed with a terminal illness about two years ago.

"We've come to grips with it. We understand what it is and now we're taking everyday one day at a time.

But Friday was a time for joy. The students wanted to get involved with Make-A-Wish after learning about the program.

They raised the $5,000 needed to grant a wish, planned the surprise presentation, and the entire student body packed the school's gym and put on quite a show.

There was singing, a piano solo, and the beating of the drum.

While Alexa looked on amazed, she was escorted to the stage with her parents in tow and dozens of students cheering her on. She was the belle of the ball.

"That so many people care about other people and other kids and kids with special students, it's just a wonderful feeling."

This day and this moment was all about Alexa, a happy little girl going to the happiest place on earth.

Alexa and her family leave for Disney World Sunday. As part of her Disney World Extravaganza she'll also visit Universal Studios and Sea World.