Greg ‘Scores’ Big With His Hero, Michael Jordan

Greg’s life changed dramatically after leaving a ceremony where he collected an academics award. He was involved in a car accident, in which he suffered a severe spinal cord injury and a broken vertebrate. Greg, a major sports fan and athlete, suddenly found himself in a wheelchair and the lower half of his body paralyzed. In addition, he has suffered from various infections as a result of his condition.  

This brave teen is a huge basketball fan. He was on the All-Star team in high school and had hoped to go to college on a basketball scholarship. For as long as he can remember, Greg has looked up to Michael Jordan as in inspiration to play his very best.  So it was no surprise that when Greg was approved for a wish with Kids Wish Network, he asked to meet Jordan in person.

Greg’s Kids Wish Network wish coordinator immediately got to work… In addition to securing hotel accommodations at the Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago for Greg and his family, she also arranged for fun activities in the area, secured tickets to a Bulls game and of course, most importantly, arranged for Greg to attend a meet and greet with his hero!

Both nervous and excited, Greg was overwhelmed to actually meet Michael Jordan face to face. During the special group meet and greet luncheon, Greg chatted with Jordan and smiled for the cameras. The pair spent a great deal of time talking about basketball and at one point, Greg told Jordan that he was working hard in physical therapy and hoped to one day walk again and of course, get back on the basketball court. With that, Jordan challenged him to a friendly game in the future.  Greg was thrilled! Later, he and his family enjoyed settling back courtside to watch the Bulls in action.

Greg’s mother said that the entire wish experience meant the world to her son. “We will be talking about it for years to come! Greg talks about it to his friends and we have pictures of the event everywhere.” She said she was also incredibly thankful to Kids Wish Network for making the wish possible for Greg. “How in the world can we possible say thank you for such an incredible event? We are so grateful for such a wonderful experience. Your kindness to our son is so appreciated!”