When he was just 18 months old, Ethan Payne was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Between the hospital visits, breathing treatments and doctor’s appointments, Ethan stared playing guitar and singing. Music brought him hope and peace through the toughest parts of his medical journey.

Five years ago, Ethan’s wish to meet Luke Bryan—his favorite country singer—was granted. This special day changed the course of his life.

On the day of his wish, Ethan arrived at Luke Bryan’s concert a few hours before it started for a meet-and-greet session. He was starstruck and so excited to meet his favorite musician in person! That alone was a dream come true. Little did Ethan know, Luke had a huge surprise up his sleeve.

“After I played a song for him on my cheap guitar for him to autograph, he invited me on stage to sing two songs in front of 50,000 people. After we sang the two songs ‘Do I’ and ‘Here’s to the Farmer’, he gave me his very first ever show guitar. That night was absolutely insane,” said Ethan.

That night, the two began a friendship—and Ethan went on to further develop his musical talents. His wish inspired him to pursue a music career and become a singer and songwriter. He wrote his first song “Back in Time” when he was 14, and he started opening shows for well-established artists.

Now, Ethan is 18 and living in Nashville. He often thinks about how his wish changed the course of his life, and he advocates for Make-A-Wish however he can.

“I realized after my wish that it gave me strength to keep moving forward and conquer my disease. I feel that wishes actually do heal kids like myself with chronic illnesses. I choose to support and help raise money to help fulfill other kids’ wishes. I am a part of the Make-A-Wish family,” he shared.

Ethan encourages everyone he meets to get involved with Make-A-Wish, whether that’s through volunteering or donating.

“It’s a nonprofit organization that changes and heal kids’ lives. Make-A-Wish strives to make wishes come true for kids as a healing support during their treatment. It can build the physical and emotional strength to fight their illness. The organization is super easy to work with, and all the staff and volunteers work hard to make a memorable experience,” he said.

Thanks for being an awesome ambassador for Make-A-Wish, Ethan!