Liam's Make A Wish Experience: A day we will never forget

Our family experienced a moment that will stay with us forever.

Thanks to Make-A-Wish, Liam’s dream of meeting his hero, Auston Matthews, came true — and it was everything we hoped for and more.

This day wasn’t just about hockey. It was about a little boy who has lived his entire life navigating Cystic Fibrosis — hospital stays, daily treatments, setbacks, and strength far beyond his years — finally getting a moment where he was simply a kid living out a dream.

When Liam met Auston, there was an immediate sense of warmth and genuine kindness. Auston took the time to truly connect with him — talking with Liam, encouraging him, and making him feel seen. One moment we will always hold close is when Auston told Liam he was a great artist, something Liam is incredibly proud of. Liam, full of excitement, told him, “We were waiting for you,” and Auston smiled and said he got there as fast as he could after practice.

For a child who has spent so much of his life waiting — for answers, for treatments, for his body to cooperate — that moment meant everything.

Liam also arrived that day proudly wearing and carrying custom gear created just for him by Guby Customs, with support from BladeTech Hockey. These weren’t just pieces of equipment — they were symbols of belief, inclusion, and community. To see Liam walk into that experience supported by people and brands who truly care about kids like him made the day even more meaningful.

Liam also shared a custom GOAT plush he had brought for Auston, and Auston’s genuine appreciation lit Liam up in a way only pure joy can. The entire experience was filled with laughter, connection, and moments that felt almost unreal — the kind that remind you why hope matters so much.

As a mom, watching my child — who so often asks “Why me?” on the hard days — experience a moment like this was overwhelming in the best way. It was a reminder that even in a life shaped by medical challenges, there can be extraordinary moments of magic, confidence, and belief.

This day wasn’t just a wish granted.

It was confidence built.

It was hope restored.

It was a memory that will carry Liam through the tough days ahead.

We are endlessly grateful to Make-A-Wish, to Auston Matthews, to Guby Customs, to BladeTech Hockey, and to everyone who helped make January 19th a day that reminded Liam — and all of us — that he is strong, valued, and never alone.