My new buddy, Nicholas
Hello,
I had a very busy week in the northeast and have returned to North Carolina. I must say this years Make a Wish event was another successful and rewarding experience. We had a perfect day for the 23rd annual Make a Wish Mother’s Day Convoy as the weather was sunny and warm. Many people came out to support the event by participating in the games, auction, fund raisers and many folks near and far within this community rallied along the truck parade route for a fun filled day… all to benefit these special children. On Sunday afternoon 336 trucks participated in the 28 mile convoy. I was fortuntate again this year to take a “Wish Child” along in the Cascadia.
The great weather allowed for many attendees.
Ryan Swanson, my friend and buddy from PA from previous events was not able to attend this year. Therefore, I sought out another child in which to take with me. The “Make a Wish” foundation matched me with a 7 year old boy named “Nicholas Cropper”. On Sunday, prior to the start of the convoy, I met with Nicholas along with his Mom and Dad. (Ed and Connie). Nicholas even brought his Grandma and Grandpa to the event. Through conversation with the parents, Nicolas was born with a severe narrowing of the aorta and a single ventrical heart defect. His heart was mixing the oxygen-rich blood from his lungs. With the oxygen-depleted blood coming back from his body, as a result, his lungs had to work twice as hard to provide enough 0xygen for him to survive. At a very youngage, Nicholas was rushed to Penn State Children’s Hospital where at two months of age, he finally received the surgery he needed to save his life. Today, doctors say he should live a full and happy life.Ryan and Nicholas both have similar heart issues and I found out on Sunday that the two families are acquainted with each other.
Clowns spread joy to the children.
Nicholas had a blast riding in the Cascadia and he especially enjoyed waving out the window As we drove past, the crowds cheered him on. He enjoyed blowing the air horn. I told him we’ll see if we can wear-out this air horn. As I looked over at Nicholas in the passenger seat, the smile on his face was priceless. These are the days when it’s great to be a truck driver.
The community displays its support for Make A Wish.
When we pulled into the Burle Industrial parking lot… we said our goodbye’s. My stomach was talking to me as I remember seeing lots of food being sold throughout the day. As I made my way to the food area, none of the vendors had any food or drinks left. This was an amazing thing since all money goes toward this charity. I still couldn’t believe they had “No” food left. Each year, they serve the famous local Chicken BBQ and many Amish baked goods are sold at the event. Well, it was time to head out and search the highway for some food.
It's easy to see why they sold out of all the food.
Cheers for Make A Wish.
Sunday was an amazing day for all and I hope if you ever get to participate in an event such as this, that you will take the opportunity as this is an awesome experience and I look forward to next year. Till Next time… be safe,
Henry
This picture sums up the meaning of the day.