For 15-year-old Dorian from Albany, NY, nature isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling. Whether sitting by a campfire with his family and friends or simply soaking in the landscape around him, Dorian has always enjoyed spending time outdoors. But until recently, it came with limits.  

That all changed when Dorian’s Wish was granted. He wished for a TerrainHopper, a rugged, all-terrain wheelchair built to turn rough, muddy, sandy, or snowy landscapes into wide-open possibilities. 

When Dorian and his family saw a picture of the TerrainHopper, they were in total disbelief. “This is unbelievable!” his mom said. “He is going to go crazy, it is beautiful.” The TerrainHopper is a vehicle of freedom designed to give individuals with mobility challenges access to the adventures they’ve only dreamed of. Whether it’s snow, sand, hills, or trails, the TerrainHopper makes the outdoors accessible again. 

And Dorian wasted no time putting it to the test, taking it places he could never go before! 

“We went out today and rode over so many things, he had a blast!” his mom shared. “We brought it to my brother’s, and he rode it in the snow at night. He loves it and can’t believe what he can do, and doesn’t have to wait on the pavement when we are on the grass or anywhere! He went through a huge puddle today!” 

From snow-covered backyards to bumpy trails and grassy parks, Dorian can now ride alongside his family. Camping, exploring, biking, hiking, he can enjoy time outdoors in every season. His TerrainHopper is a bridge to shared moments and freedom he never thought possible. 

Thanks to help from the Dake Foundation for Children, Dorian’s Wish came true. Based in New York’s Capital Region, the Dake Foundation is dedicated to helping children with disabilities gain access to life-enhancing equipment and opportunities. Their generosity and commitment made this life-changing moment a reality. 

Dorian’s Wish was about the journey: one where he no longer must sit on the sidelines, or where nature is no longer out of reach. Now, his journey is filled with fresh air, muddy trails, and campfires shared with the people he loves most. 

Thank you, Dake Foundation, TerrainHoper, and Hoppers for Heroes for giving Dorian the power to explore without limits and for making his Wish come true.