Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Ed Yeates reporting A 13 year old boy who got a special surprise from Make-A-Wish a year ago, returned an even bigger surprise today.
Last year, volunteers granted a wish and built Garrett Stewart his own backyard rodeo arena.
Once fighting for his life with a brain tumor, the boy decided that he would payback Make A Wish with something really special.
Today it happened! Leading the head of the grand parade, Garrett kicked off a two day roping event at Salt Lake County's Equestrian Park.
Laurie Stewart, Garrett"s Mom: "He's a much mature as a 13-year-old than most 13-year-olds - and it's something that has shaped him into a much different boy."
Because Garrett's brain tumor is in remission - his recovery holding strong..
Laurie Stewart, Garrett"s Mom: "He's got a lot to give to others because of this."
And a lot he will give back. All the money raised from this roping competition - goes back to Make A Wish.
Garrett Stewart: "It shows so much about what Make-A-Wish does - and they give so many sick kids wishes, especially me, and it's just great to help other kids."
Many people responded to Garrett's call. Along with the competition, saddles, blankets and more will be auctioned off through tomorrow.
For Garrett, this is just the beginning. He plans on holding an event just like this every year with proceeds upwards of $25,000 - all going to the Make-A-Wish foundation."
Garrett Stewart: "If I'm still here, I'm just going to keep roping and I'm still going to be putting on this event every year. Just more money coming into the foundation to help other kids grant their wishes."
Garrett's goal is lofty. He told us if other yearly fund raisers can get 40,000 to 50,000 dollars, there is no reason why his event, one day, can't do the same.
