WYOMING, MI - Make-A-Wish Michigan recently threw a party at 7-year-old Keegan Williams home to unveil an ice skating rink that put a smile on his face.
Keegan, a hockey lover who is battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia, wished for a rink in his family’s backyard in Wyoming. Griff, the Grand Rapids Griffins mascot, came out for the celebration and slapped around the hockey puck with the youngster.
“The smile on this guy’s face that we get to see or listen to, it doesn’t make the journey any easier but it’s a reward for what’s he’s been through so thank you‚’’ Raeann Elliott, Keegan’s Mother, said Thursday, Jan. 28 during the celebration.
Elliot said Keegan is scheduled to finish his treatment in April of this year. She said the treatment has been a “long road” and some days, weeks and months are harder than others.
“I’ve always considered myself to be a strong person, but (Keegan) is strong,” Keegan’s dad, Keith Williams said.
Keegan began ice skating when he was 3-years-old. At the rink’s unveiling, Make-A-Wish Michigan President and CEO Michael Hull read a proclamation written by Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll declaring January 28th Keegan Williams Day.
Griff showered Keegan with gifts including a hockey stick used in Griffins games, a jersey and other Griffins items before the two squared off on the ice rink.
“We’re just so thankful and so appreciative that everyone is willing to take the time out and come out and support him and help make this day possible,” Elliott said.
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