Elliott's wish...
“I wish to be a fireman”
8 years old, Derby
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency (MoCD)
Wish stories
This wish experience reminded everyone that, just like Fireman Sam, bravery comes in all sizes.
Elliot's story
Eight-year-old Elliott lives with Molybdenum cofactor deficiency (MoCD) - type A, a rare and progressive genetic condition that affects only a handful of children worldwide. MoCD causes a toxic build-up of sulphur in the brain, leading to serious neurological damage over time. Sadly, there is currently no cure.
Despite being diagnosed early, Elliott has experienced many long-term effects of the condition. He is non-verbal, requires daily medication administered through a central line, and has a learning disability.
Even when times are tough, one thing that brings Elliott comfort is Fireman Sam. So, when his family found out he could have a wish, they knew exactly what would bring him joy, a wish ‘to be a firefighter’. They imagined a day where Elliott could step into the boots of his hero.”
Elliot's wish
After careful planning with the Make-A-Wish UK team and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, Elliott and his family travelled to the fire station for a very special day. From the moment he stepped inside, Elliott was treated like one of the crew, meeting real firefighters, riding in the fire engine, and even getting to hold the hose.
The wish experience reminded everyone that, just like Fireman Sam, bravery comes in all sizes. As Elliott’s mum reflected: “Elliott is non-verbal, and the fact that the wish was so tailored to him, made it even more special. The firefighters got down on his level and spoke to him directly. We were nervous that he might feel overwhelmed, but there was no pressure on the day, they just went at his pace to ensure he was comfortable. And Elliott just kept doing little happy dances."
“The experience boosted Elliott's confidence. He had a matching uniform to the team and even had his firefighter ID badge. We're unsure if he will ever be able to get a real job in the future, but this gave him that experience, and now his dream of being a fireman has come true.”
David Diggins, Group Manager at Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service said: “It’s been a real privilege to support Elliott’s wish. He clearly had a fantastic time, and a huge thanks goes to the fire crew on duty who gave him a real behind-the-scenes experience.
“The highlight was seeing Elliott’s strength, bravery, and resilience first-hand. He’s an inspiration to all of us.
“Opportunities like this are rare and special, and we’re proud to play a small part when we can.”
"We can't thank everyone enough who came together so quickly to make Elliott's wish come true. Everything was just so smooth and simple, and nothing we asked for was too much. The wish was a week before Elliott's birthday so the fire station has balloons and cake for him. This is something that will stay with him forever. He’s gone back to school and told everyone. The experience boosted Elliott's confidence. He had a matching uniform to the team and even had his firefighter ID badge. We're unsure if he will ever be able to get a real job in the future, but this gave him that experience, and now his dream of being a fireman has come true. It was so nice to have something that was that special. We don't know what the future holds, but a wish gives them that one chance to experience something that they're passionate about. That's why it's so important."
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