I wish to be a firefighter

Samuel

11

cystic fibrosis

Samuel the firefighter after a successful wish!

A Wish Ignites Strength and Joy

In spite of his hardships with cystic fibrosis, Samuel remains bright and hopeful.

His determination and drive to continue fighting his critical illness are heroic and admirable. These are traits that the Tampa Fire Rescue Department thought to be particularly special. So, when they found out Samuel wished to be a firefighter for a day, they happily invited him to join their team.

I will never forget the look on [Samuel's] face and his bright smile.
local fireman
Samuel and firefighter
Samuel with firemen
Samuel straps in to the firetruck for a day's work
Samuel and his company head to check out a fire
Samuel tests out the fire hose
Wish kid Samuel

On his wish day, Samuel donned his uniform and eagerly hopped onto the firetruck, where his team gave him a tour and explained how all of their tools were used. From helping clear the debris of a mock car crash to a water rescue, he had the experience of a lifetime. The highlight of his day was putting out a large fire and making sure everyone was safe in the process.

Being a firefighter for a day helped give Samuel a piece of his childhood back that cystic fibrosis had stolen. Samuel’s team couldn’t believe how persistent and strong he was – just like an actual firefighter. Throughout the day, his joy was evident. One of the local firemen said, “I will never forget the look on his face and his bright smile.”