FREEHOLD, New Jersey (WABC) — A Freehold, New Jersey family is being recognized for their charitable work, sewing happy, colorful hospital gowns for children around the world with a surprise trip to Disney World!

It started as a small act of kindness towards her little cousin and has since grown into a massive initiative helping thousands of children around the world.

Giuliana, 14, from New Jersey, and her sister Audrina make personalized hospital gowns to bring a little cheer to children who need it most.

She was inspired by the hospital journey of her young cousin Giada, who was diagnosed with brain cancer before she was a year old.

“It was probably the darkest time of our lives, and learning that your child has cancer is something I never imagined,” Salvadore Demma Giada’s father said.

During Giada’s months in the hospital, her cousins ​​noticed her drab hospital scrubs and had an idea.

“I inspired them to do good things for people and make hospital gowns for children with cancer,” Giada Demma said.

She learned to sew and decided to make bright and cheerful pediatric gowns.

“I was just going to keep something small, just for a girl my aunt knew in the cancer community,” Giuliana said.

It was so rewarding that she continued to sew.

Giuliana has donated over 2,000 dresses worldwide.

Three years later, friends, family and strangers are helping her sew dresses for other children.

Their work took over part of the family’s basement, including donated machinery, fabrics and supplies.

“It feels really good and I feel like I’m doing something really special helping the kids at the hospital,” Audrina said.

“Some dresses went to Canada, England, Uganda and Ethiopia,” Giuliana said.

And now they are being recognized for their incredible work.

“It’s really heartwarming to see how focused, dedicated and passionate they are about helping other kids,” said Vanessa Demma, Giuliana and Audrina’s mother.

“We are very proud of Giuliana and Audrina and the commitment they have given to this charity and to this news that has spread around the world,” said Joseph Demma, the sister’s father.

Giuliana, Audrina and their cousins, including Giada, who is cancer-free, were surprised by the Disney Parks by going to Disney World for their charity work.

“They are doing a wonderful job setting an example for our children and all children around the world,” said Melissa Demma, Giada’s mother.

The girls hope their work will encourage more people to join this effort.

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