Liam's Wish Brings Joy Every Day!
Seven-year-old Liam lights up when he’s outside. His smile speaks joy and his body visibly relaxes. With the sky overhead and the fresh air all around, Liam’s day becomes all about happiness and less about constraints from Allen-Herndon-Dudley syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that he’s experienced since before birth.
Liam and his mom enjoying the outdoors during winter.
However, being in nature is not a simple proposition for wheelchair users in Alaska. Rugged terrain and elements put a halt to easy travel—especially in winter. And, in the neighborhood where Liam lives, there aren’t shoulders on the road that are safe for wheelchairs.
In wintertime, the only safe option was to take Liam back and forth on the short driveway—or drive to an indoor track. Once covid-19 showed up, even the indoor track was off limits.
His mom Darlene knew that his quality of life would improve dramatically if he could safely enjoy nature right outside his home—and if he could get to the place in the yard where all his siblings like to play, sled and build forts in the snow.
That’s how the idea for Liam’s wish first took shape. He might not have verbally spoken his wish, but his family knew that his greatest joy arrived in nature.
Through the help of the community, Make-A-Wish was able to create this wish for Liam and his family.
With the ingenuity and generosity of Arctic Terra, a nature trail was built around Liam’s yard, winding in out of the trees and creating an outdoor safe haven for him.
The trail is perfectly carved for wheelchair use—and even has a little gazebo to shelter Liam from the outdoor elements. Jason Kersten, owner of Arctic Terra, says, “We are truly very blessed to be able to help Liam and grateful for the opportunity. Thanks again for all you do and the support you provide to so many people in need of a little light.”
In a time of extra limitation and isolation due to the pandemic, Liam’s pathway through the woods provides an extra dose of hope.
Your support of wishes took away the barriers that kept Liam from being in nature with his family. That’s a joy that’s bigger than words… bigger than dollars… and promises hope for every day to come.
Can you help make wishes come true to other kids like Liam by becoming a monthly donor?
Special thanks to Arctic Terra, Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 367, and wish-granting volunteers Jenny di Grappa and Brook Pigg.