Every day, 10-year-old Grayson Cohen eagerly asks his mom if his sister, Jamison, can join him and their two other brothers for outdoor activities. Whether it's biking or kicking a soccer ball around outside their home in Potomac, Maryland, Grayson's request is always met with the same response: no.
Thirteen-year-old Jamison has a nervous system disorder that makes her allergic to sunlight and sensitive to UV rays. Despite her desire to join in, it hasn't been safe for her to be outdoors. The family's backyard, with its uneven pavement, posed additional challenges for Jamison's bike or wheelchair.
However, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic and homebuilder Van Metre, Jamison's wish became a reality. On a Thursday afternoon, Jamison cut the ribbon on her new backyard sports court, complete with UV shades.
Surrounded by family and friends, Jamison joyfully rode her bike around the court. Her brothers are already looking forward to using the space.
“I love it, and I’m glad that Jamie can play with us,” said one of her brothers.
Jamison is one of approximately 375 wishes granted annually by Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, according to Lesli Creedon, the organization's president and CEO.
The journey began in January 2023 when Creedon spoke with Glen Skutnik, the group president of investment properties at Van Metre. They discussed Van Metre's commitment to fulfilling one wish per year. Within minutes of the conversation, Creedon shared the details of Jamison’s wish with Skutnik.
“Together, we brainstormed ideas for Jamie’s wish,” explained Nikki Cohen, Jamison’s mother. “Ultimately, we agreed that creating a safe sports court where she could enjoy time with her brothers away from the sun would be perfect.”
The project, from conception to completion, took 18 months. Additionally, a pathway was constructed from the house to the sports court to ensure Jamison could easily access and enjoy her new space.
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Photo: Getty