Make-A-Wish delivers "Christmas miracle" to Okeechobee 12-year-old

Posted 12/21/20

When 12-year-old Michael Felkins was told by his parents that they were making a quick stop to shop for a pair of pants, he didn't think much of it.

But when they pulled into Bass Pro Shop in …

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Make-A-Wish delivers "Christmas miracle" to Okeechobee 12-year-old

Posted

When 12-year-old Michael Felkins was told by his parents that they were making a quick stop to shop for a pair of pants, he didn't think much of it.

But when they pulled into Bass Pro Shop in Port St. Lucie and saw a brand new pontoon boat with a bow on it, he couldn't believe it.

The Okeechobee resident has been fighting a battle against cancer and loves nothing more than getting away on family fishing excursions. Make-A-Wish approved and granted Michael's wish for not only a new boat, but also all the fishing gear and safety equipment his family will need to enjoy their time on the water.

"I thought it was just going to be a normal day," said Michael, "and after coming from the hospital we'd just go home. But this time they decided to go shopping. My mom was willing, so I knew something was up."

Michael's father, who shares the same name as his son, said keeping the boat a secret was hard to do.

"We were full of anticipation to come out," said Mr. Felkins. "We were able to keep the secret about coming here for this. Couldn't wait to see his face and it was definitely well worth the wait."

"It's going to be heartwarming see him out there and having fun," continued Mr. Felkins. "Being able to do it with the family just makes everything better. Life is about making memories with the ones you love."

Michael and his family plan to spend time on the pontoon boat this weekend with family members who are making the trip to Okeechobee.

Make-A-Wish South Florida has granted nearly 13,000 life-changing wishes since 1983 for children who have critical illnesses. The Southern Florida chapter’s territory includes 22 counties/four regions in southeast and southwest Florida, the Tampa Bay area, and on the Suncoast. It also includes the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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