The road following Colin’s leukemia diagnosis has not been an easy one. At just barely two years old, countless days of treatment and recovery cast heavy shadows over the earliest chapters of his life. But amid the difficulty brought by his illness, Colin’s loving nature and huge sense of humor are still the first things that come to mind at any mention of the (now) four-year-old. His trials also couldn’t change the vision he had for his very own wish.

When Make-A-Wish New Hampshire notified Colin’s family that he would be receiving a wish, it was like a new page had been turned in his medical journey. The wish became more than a gift to receive—it was a bright light to look forward to, one he could help shape and plan. After a little discussion with his family, Colin knew exactly what he wanted this wish to be. But upon its livestreamed reveal at New Hampshire’s annual Breakfast for Wishes event, Colin’s brand-new backyard pool was beyond anything he’d dreamed.

Colin was ready for a swim right after his first glimpse of its clear, sparkling water. But first came a limo ride home fit for any celebrity—complete with a police escort. Cheers filled the yard as Colin’s mother helped him from the car. His smile only grew as none other than Batman and Spiderman came to greet him. After a couple high fives and hugs, Colin donned some shades and a bright blue innertube as he took to the pool for a swim.

When Colin was trying to decide on his wish, he knew he wanted something that he could enjoy with family and friends for years to come. The memories that accompanied his wish are just as lasting. Make-A-Wish New Hampshire thanks everybody who helps bring such wishes—and the hope they inspire—to life. For any kid with a critical illness, a wish is a seed of strength. It is a catalyst to keep swimming through the hard days for the hope of sunny ones beyond it.