He could see it from afar...a shiny, big red bow. Not just tied around any ordinary present – this one was bigger…much bigger.
Jose was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. He tol
d Make-A-Wish® volunteers he wanted a new playground at his elementary school for all the students to enjoy.
“I thought the kids at school needed the wish more than I did,” Jose said. “My heart told me to give.”
On the morning of his 11th birthday, he arrives to school in a stretch limousine with a police escort. Standing around the playground, Jose sees his classmates, teachers, community members, donors and elected officials all cheering and clapping for him. Today is his day.
Jose looks up to see the playground of his dreams. He slowly climbs to the top, turns around and waves to all of his supporters who came out to see him. He cuts the big red ribbon and enjoys a celebratory ride down the slide.
The playground was named after Jose – a total surprise to him and his family.
It was a day to remember. No one will forget what he did for his fellow classmates and community.