Miles is a creative kid who loves to draw. When he was in the hospital, he got a Kindle and now he likes to record fun, little videos. No matter what medium he’s working in, he can always find a way to be creative.

When it comes to his struggle with leukemia, he’s been both resilient and positive. Even when he has a bad day, he tends to remain a very happy kid. His treatment is slated to last until 2027, but he’s expected to recover.

When he was at the hospital for treatment, Miles’ parents learned that he might be eligible for a wish. They were skeptical though and didn’t think their application wouldn’t go through. “I thought it was only for terminal kids,” Miles’ mom, Alicia said. “He was obviously sick, but not terminal.”

“I was really surprised when [Make-A-Wish® Idaho East Idaho Regional Director] Julie Thomas got a hold of me and told me that Miles was getting a wish. I was really excited. It was a nice highlight in the middle of all the insanity.  It’s nice that people would want to do that for us. Since he got sick, people have come out and offered help and wanted to do things for Miles. It’s been a really nice part of all this and has made everything a lot easier.”

Miles loves camping. When deciding on a wish, his first thought was to wish for a camping trip. However, Miles can’t take jaunts into the wilderness or travel much at all due to his illness. Alicia said that Miles would have plenty of opportunities for camping when he was feeling better, so he, instead, chose to camp at home.

He wished for a backyard makeover complete with a firepit. That way, he could spend time having fun outside while staying safe. His backyard makeover would include a pergola for shade, a swing, and a firepit to complete the at-home outdoorsman experience.

When Miles learned that his wish date was drawing near, he became very excited. He kept asking his mom “When is it coming?” He asked for weeks. “Is it tomorrow? Is tomorrow the day?”

The day of the wish finally arrived, and Miles wanted to watch the builder put it together. “I’m so happy. I’m so happy!” Miles repeated many times. The builder brought his grandkids to play with Miles while the pergola was being constructed. They were out riding bikes, but when they started putting the swing together the kids had to go indoors because the builder was drilling metal. Miles was not happy about having to go inside!

When the swing was nearly complete, Miles was able to go back outside. There was still one final screw to put in. The builder asked if Miles wanted to install the last piece. Miles was thrilled, and the builder showed Miles how to do it. “It was probably the highlight of the day,” Alica said.   

Alicia said that the wish made a positive impact on Miles. “He feels very loved,” she said. “Miles said that they gave me a pergola because ‘everyone loves me.’ I think it helps his whole worldview. He sees everyone as kind and nice and knows that there are good people on this earth who God will send to help. That lesson has hit for him.”