Fans of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” aren’t the only ones tuning in to see this house renovation. Dozens of Make-A-Wish volunteers from around the state and in Lubbock hosted watch parties as they anxiously waited to see Calan Copp’s dreams come true.
Calan and his little brother Lawson use a wheelchair and other specialized tools to get around every day.
“So both Calan and Lawson were born with very rare mitochondrial disorder that affects their ability to stand and walk on their own. It’s not only life threatening, but it affects all their major organs in their body,” said mom Melissa Copp.
Melissa asked Calan what he would have if he could have anything in the world.
“He told me he would love to one day have a backyard where he could play with all his friends with every ability. The home we were living in just didn’t have that capability,” said Copp.
At the time, Melissa and Jody Copp would drive more than an hour so their boys could play at a suitable playground and feel just like every other kid.
“Because we have had such difficulties being in and out of doctors their entire lives, Jody and I make every effort to make them happy when we got home. We never had the ability for them to be free in their wheelchairs and walkers. We’d drive an hour and a half to an abilities park so they could actually play outside, or we would actually take them to a nearby parking lot to blow bubbles and play chase so they could experience what it’s like to be outside,” said Melissa.
They just didn’t have the space for Calan and Lawson to play, Melissa said. Thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines, along with Tim Tebow, the family was able to secure the home of their dreams.
Chip and Joanna Gaines and Tim Tebow made sure the Copps had a house that was completely wheelchair accessible. The Make-A-Wish Foundation was eager to work on the backyard plans.
“It includes a race track that goes all the way around, and a play house and play area in the middle. They come out here every day. Even if it’s sprinkling, they still want to come out here so badly. They’ve wanted this moment their entire lives,” Melissa said.
Their daily playtime is a much-needed family break from all those doctor visits.
“Every three to four days, we were either in a hospital doctors office or having a test done. I knew there’s gotta be a better way. I knew make a wish could help us make that happen,” Melissa said.
For Jody and Melissa, watching their boys enjoy this space is more than they could have ever imagined.
“I can’t even tell you how amazing it is to just relax and watch your children play in their own backyard. We’ve never experienced that as parents because their risk of injury is so high. We’re just so thrilled to be able to watch them for the first time, and the joy on their faces, it’s just pure joy. It’s so amazing to see that,” said Copp.
If you’d like to get involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, just give them a call at 806-785-9474.
