Zachary Ellis of Alton is a big sports fan.
He’s also faced big challenges at a young age. The 10-year-old was born with a kidney disorder and had to undergo multiple medical procedures before eventually receiving a life-saving kidney transplant in 2024.
And now he’s having a wish granted by Make-A-Wish Maine.
The nonprofit is fulfilling Ellis’ wish of having a sports-themed cabin in the woods, and sending him to this weekend’s University of Maine football game with VIP treatment.
“Zachary has an incredible passion for sports,” said Make-A-Wish Maine Director of Mission Delivery Sonya Purington in a press release. “After all he has endured, this wish is about giving him the chance to experience pure joy and to celebrate his resilience. We are thrilled to have UMaine Football partner with us to create a one-of-a-kind experience for him leading up to his wish.”
The cabin will be located at Ellis’ family home in Alton, according to Make-A-Wish Maine.
Ellis will be honored at Saturday’s Black Bears home game against North Carolina A&T. He’ll arrive on campus in a limo, receive a private tour of the newly renovated Alfond hockey arena, watch the football game and be recognized on the field during the third quarter.
Ellis plays baseball along with other sports and is an enthusiastic hockey and football fan, according to Make-A-Wish-Maine.
“His wish cabin will reflect those passions, offering him a place to relax, play, and dream big,” the organization said in its press release.
