LEWISBURG, Tenn. (WTVF) — Olivia walks out the back door of her home holding hands with her mom. The crowd of people from her community that stood by the little green barn knew what was about to happen.
At 25 years of wishes, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee and Tractor Supply celebrated Olivia, who battles cystic fibrosis.
Watch Olivia step into her art room for the very first time in the player above.
Tractor Supply Foundation's executive director Marti Skold-Jordan helped take Olivia's art from the kitchen table to a space she can call her own.
"The folks at Tractor Supply's Creative Department came out and painted this, and they brought all of the art supplies that they love and they knew that she would like. I love the rolls of paper that come down," says Skold-Jordan.
Olivia took it all in, hand-in-hand with her mom, and they both stepped into Olivia's Art Barn.
"When I saw the smile on Olivia's face today that is priceless," says Skold-Jordan.
It is a surprise that overwhelmed Olivia and her family with both art and heart.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at KIM.RAFFERTY@NEWSCHANNEL5.COM.
This is a beautiful story of chosen family, proving a father figure doesn't have to have biology in common to make a difference in a child's life. The story of De'Andre and Alex will remind you that our relationships help determine the course of our lives. And that being supportive of someone - through a meal, a shared experience or even swim lessons can make all the difference.
- Rebecca Schleicher
