In the words of Chad’s mother, Julie, Newfoundland “is not a big place.”

It’s not surprising, then, that in the course of treatments and activities for Chad’s cerebral palsy, he met Jeremy, who is just a couple years older than him.

After spending a week at camp together, Chad and Jeremy discovered they were both huge wrestling fans, and their friendship really started to grow. They started going to wheelchair basketball together once a week and visiting on weekends. The boys love sports and are always looking for activities they can both take part in. When their families heard that they could qualify for a Sunshine Dream, they said, “Why not?” The excitement and anticipation really brought the two closer together. A few months later, and Chad and his family were off to Hollywood to see the WWE Summer Slam – and so was his friend Jeremy. 

Chad’s favourite part of the trip was the ‘meet and greet’ session with his wrestling heroes: “We were not told who would be dropping by. The anticipation was electric while Chad watched, eyes transfixed on the door each time the knob turned! Five or six stars came to the room, Edge being a favourite. It was truly amazing and so exciting for everyone. Imagine the excitement for the young boys to look around and see these superstars - that have only existed on television - all around them!   

Being able to experience this trip of a lifetime with his best bud was a major element of what made this so special.  From planning the trip, to what they would say to the different wrestlers and then actually being there; Chad and Jeremy have built a stronger bond as friends.

 

While Summer Slam and all that that encompassed was no doubt the highlight, it is important to note that the entire trip was a dream come true. We have never had a family vacation before. We were able to visit Hollywood, Universal studios, Santa Monica beach and (most importantly) spend quality time together. The experiences we shared as a family while visiting Los Angeles are going to remain front and center in our memories. "