In October of 2019, Lisa and Matthew Vose received devastating news: their son Michael’s brain cancer, which he’d been fighting for over a year, was not responding to treatment as hoped. In fact the tumor had grown, and doctors worried that the four-year-old would not make it to Christmas.

Michael’s family wondered: Could Make-A-Wish Vermont create something similar to the Polar Express—the story of a child’s magical train ride to the North Pole—and could we do it right away?

Over just three days, a magical wish came together

Make-A-Wish Vermont staff and volunteers immediately got to work, sending urgent emails and making phone calls, gathering momentum and support for this special Wish. As more and more people heard about Michael’s condition, and his Wish to meet Santa at the North Pole, they stopped what they were doing and committed to help in any way they could.

Three days later, hundreds of Vermonters were involved and Michael’s wish was granted.

The Polar Express arrives at The North Pole in Bellows Falls, Vermont

Against a backdrop of red and yellow trees, Michael, his parents, and their extended friends and family climbed aboard a replica of the Polar Express.

On board the train—a Green Mountain rail car decked out for the holidays—Michael and his guests were served hot cocoa and cookies while costumed volunteers read the favorite story book to set the scene.

When the train pulled back up to the station, it had been transformed into the North Pole, complete with Santa and Mrs. Claus, their reindeer, and a handful of elves—all illuminated by hundreds of twinkling lights.

Inside, Santa spoke with each child, and handed out gifts. Christmas carols were sung, hugs were exchanged, and the Christmas spirit came alive.

A Christmas in October to remember

Several weeks later, Michael lost his fight with cancer. It was just one week before Christmas. Thanks to a community of caring people, Michael was able to experience one last joyful Christmas, and his family will always cherish the memories created that day.