Make-A-Wish turns Bloomsburg University into Wild West
BLOOMSBURG, COLUMBIA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — It was a day of making wishes come true on the campus of Bloomsburg University, and in true team spirit, university athletes transformed the campus into a cowboy wonderland
Cowboy hats, carnival games, and farm animals to boot were brought to the Bloomsburg University campus on Thursday, to help reveal a make-a-wish for one special Synder County boy, named Levi.
Four-year-old, Levi Barben loves all things western and ranch, and this cowboy just got a big surprise.
He suffers from cystic fibrosis, a serious genetic disorder, that impacts Levi’s lungs and causes other health concerns.
On Thursday, Levi received his wish: a trip to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, surrounded by family, his pre-k class, and more than 100 Bloomsburg University student-athletes.
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When asked if was excited to go to Yellowstone National Park, Levi said, “Yeah.”
The school’s NCAA Division II Athletic Department is part of a national partnership of Make-A-Wish America.
They were selected to host the reveal after raising more than $10,000 in fundraising for the make-a-wish foundation. It’s the second time in two years they’ve been selected.
“For our student-athletes to step up to that has just been amazing,” said Dr. Michael McFarland, Director of Athletics, at Bloomsburg University.
Levi’s Ranch took lots of planning, but the student-athletes say it was worth every minute.
“I mean giving back not only to our community but to kids in general always feels good in your heart,” said Ben Ries, a Bloomsburg University Football player.
“It’s just a great thing to be a part of. It’s just really important to change people’s lives and I just want Levi to know how loved and supported he is through all of this,” explained Gracie Brosious, a Bloomsburg University Field Hockey player.
Levi’s family says they’re grateful for the support of the school community, as he continues his battle.
“It was pretty scary starting out but he’s doing really well and to have everybody here and this experience it’s just, it’s just a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Lacee Barben, Levi’s mom.
Levi’s celebration continued until 3:00 p.m. on Thursday and for more information on our local chapter of Make-A-Wish visit their website.
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