Wish Kid Becomes Honorary Firefighter, and Tennessee Adventures Await!
RADFORD, Va. (September 2024): Robert was full of wonder visiting the Radford Fire Department with his family. He was in complete awe of the fire trucks and firefighters he looks up to, wanting to be just like them when he grows up. Robert didn’t know it yet, but he wouldn’t have to wait.
Kids Wish Network reached out to the Radford Fire Department about this aspiring firefighter, and it was happening now! Robert joined their ranks as an honorary firefighter for the day, and they made it official presenting him with his own helmet and custom embroidered firefighter shirt, as well as a plaque to commemorate the meaningful occasion. Robert was also given a tour of the fire station, with lots of time to explore their fire trucks, ambulances, rescue boats and firefighter gear. His favorite activities were spraying water from a fire hose, and riding in their fire truck. It was a blissful time of smiles and giggles.
And there was another big surprise. The EMS Supervisor had everyone gather around to share some incredible news. Kids Wish Network continued to make Robert’s dream come true with a family trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee! He was embraced with support, and beamed with happiness.
Robert even appeared on the local news, having his meaningful story covered by attending reporters. It was so fun seeing himself on TV for the first time. He was also featured in a local news publication.
“I’ve never seen him so happy as he was at the firehouse,” said his mom Melanie. “He was so excited and loved every minute of it.” It was a special day to remember, and his family still has their much-needed getaway to look forward to. Tennessee adventures await!
Robert was born a triplet and premature. He had a brain bleed, yet complications didn’t show up until he was six months old. Testing revealed his diagnosis of cerebral palsy. He later began having seizures, and the right side of his body began going limp. He takes daily medication for his seizures, and has undergone injections for his cerebral palsy to loosen his muscles. Robert has had pneumonia several times from aspirating food.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Robert without the help of the Radford Fire Department, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.
Sponsors:
Radford Fire Department
https://www.radfordva.gov/204/Fire-Department
https://www.facebook.com/RadfordCityVa/?fref=ts
Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs. Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.
Every kid’s wish is worth the investment because every wish changes a life.
If you would like to sponsor a child’s wish, or if you know a child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness and may be in need of Kids Wish Network’s wish-granting services, please call 727-789-0008.