At 13, Tanner should have been out riding his bike, tinkering with toy cars, or sketching dream designs of the vehicles he loved most. For as long as anyone could remember, cars had been his passion—the way their engines roared to life, the way sunlight glinted off chrome, the feeling of endless roads ahead. His eyes lit up at every classic, every sports car, every glimpse of horsepower and beauty.

But everything changed last month. A BMX accident left Tanner with a severe spinal injury. Suddenly, the boy who once dreamed of sitting behind the wheel found himself in a wheelchair, facing long days inside the Shepherd Center. Therapy became his new race track—grueling, painful, demanding more strength than most people twice his age could muster. With only the slightest movement in his arms, every small victory was worth celebrating.

When his family asked what he wanted for his upcoming birthday on August 22, Tanner’s response stunned them. He didn’t ask for presents, gadgets, or even a party. He wanted something much simpler, yet infinitely more powerful:

He wanted to see cars.

Not just one or two, but a parade—cars of all shapes and sizes, rolling past the garden where he sits each day, watching the world move while his own body fights to heal. He imagined the sound of engines humming, horns honking, strangers cheering. He dreamed of feeling surrounded by life again, connected to his greatest love.

Word of Tanner’s wish spread quickly. What started as a small idea within his family soon grew into something much bigger. Messages began arriving—notes of encouragement, prayers, promises of support. Car clubs shared his story, mechanics and collectors reached out, and people who had never met him pledged to show up.

Every time Tanner hears the words, “This is for you,” his eyes widen with disbelief. How could so many strangers care so deeply? Yet they do. Because Tanner’s story isn’t just about cars—it’s about resilience, hope, and a community’s power to lift a child in his darkest time.

Now, as August 22 draws near, the anticipation builds. His family hopes to make this the birthday he’ll never forget: a line of cars stretching down the road, honking, waving, and shining just for him. For a boy who once dreamed of driving, it will be a reminder that even if he can’t yet hold the wheel, the world is still cheering him on.

And the response so far has been nothing short of incredible. 🚗💛