The Backstory
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You ever have one of those ideas where you think it’s super cool, but then you’re floored to find out others do as well? That’s what happened to us.
See, in 2005, our son was born with cancer. The tumor crushed his spinal cord leaving him with limited mobility in his legs. Three years later, he got his first wheelchair. And come Halloween, I made him a Wall-E costume that fit around his wheelchair. It was a huge hit. Since then, he’s challenged me to come up with even bigger and more elaborate costumes every year. Not only does he absolutely love this, but newspapers and websites began picking up his pictures and sharing them. That’s what put the wheels in motion. Requests quickly started coming in from all over the country, and Walkin’ & Rollin’ Costumes was born. |
And Now...
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Today, this non-profit organization is dedicated to building costumes for kids in walkers and wheelchairs, free of charge to the families, made possible due to the kindness of over 150 volunteers around the nation and donations to help cover the costs.
We’ve built almost 150 costumes for kids all over the nation. From Toy Story characters and modern-day superheroes to Star Wars-inspired and pretty princesses, we’ve covered the gamut in making dreams come true. We started with a Kickstarter campaign, but thanks to getting featured on the national and international levels, we now have companies and organizations wanting to sponsor and high schools wanting to build. We’ve even been featured guests at Comicons across the nation! |
Moving Forward
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We’re now creating a network of designers and builders around the country to help construct these costumes. Ideally, we’d be able to have an individual or team who can actually go to the child and perform accurate measurements and fittings in person. Better fit means better costume. Plus, this will help keep shipping costs down, as well.
While we’re both honored and pleased to be in such demand, we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why Walkin’ & Rollin’ Costumes chapters are forming nationwide. We’re continuing to look for donors and sponsors. And we’re seeking Angel investors to help with business and promotional expenses. We’re excited for what the future may hold. Come along with us. And help us make a child’s dream come true. |