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Keith McCord Reporting This is one of those stories that tugs at the heart a bit but still makes you smile. It's about a six-year old boy from Ogden who had a wish granted today.
His name is Daniel Zapata and his wish was to ride the "Thomas the Train" engine at the Heber Valley Railroad. Today Daniel, his family, and friends got an up close look at "Thomas”, and after a thorough inspection, climbed on board for a ride!
Daniel has a rare form of cancer called Neuroblastoma, which attacks the nerve cells of children usually under the age of 10. When he learned of his condition, Daniel had a wish to ride Thomas the Train and the "Make-A-Wish" and others made it happen.
Richard Tuhero, Daniel's Grandfather: “He’s got a lot of Thomas toys in his bedroom. Thomas sheets, a little Thomas everything.”
And during the train ride, Daniel received even more "Thomas" toys. Each year the Heber Valley Railroad brings in the "Thomas the Tank" engine for children to enjoy. Daniel had a ball!
Richard Tuhero: “I see his eyes light up like I've never seem them light up before. And the happiness on his face and the joy of having the chance to live the dream of his...words are indescribable."
It was a day of smiles for a family that has experienced this disease before. Last year, Daniel's eight-year old sister died of the same disease. A fund has been set up at Ogden's Key Bank for donations to help the family.
