Clayton, an eight-year-old from Brownsville was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with the Hypodiploid rarity, which made this a very high-risk cancer. (only 2% are diagnosed with this kind).
Clayton loves the outdoors. Because of his weakened immune system, he cannot play with other kids. This was only amplified by the COVID pandemic, which keeps him from doing nearly everything. Yet, he can enjoy the outdoors with his family. His dream of his own camper would allow him to do just that.
A dream this of this magnitude is typically out of reach because of its cost. However, the members of the 16th Review Club of Brownsville, TN were determined to help raise additional funds to make Clayton’s dream a reality. They tackled the job of raising enough funds to offset the normal cost of a dream. They solicited local businesses and citizens of Haywood County and exceeded their goal. With the money they raised; plus, a generous donation from Carey’s Body Shop in Millington, TN, and the Johnson and Rotenberry families, enough monies were raised to cover the entire cost of Clayton’s Camper. A special thanks to Gander RV and Champion Power Equipment for the extra equipment needed for the camper.
On December 5, 2020, we granted Clayton’s dream (our second in 2020). Gander RV in Jackson, TN pulled out all the stops to make this his special day. Clayton arrived at the store blindfolded, not knowing where he was or what he was doing. His eyes grew in amazement when his blindfold was removed. His favorite spot is his bunk bed. He let us know his first trip would be to the “deep country” in his camper. We know he will make many lasting memories with his family enjoying the outdoors.
After granting Clayton’s Camper Dream, we received this message from his mom and dad…
“Dear Dream Factory of Memphis”
“WOW! That is exactly how we are still feeling! This cancer journey has been long, unfair, and draining on Clayton’s body. He has had to grow up so quickly. BUT all of that is behind him and because of the love and energy that you all have put into making his dream come true…he is ONLY looking ahead! He has dreamed of being outdoors for a long time and having a camper to make his adventurous dreams come true is something he has talked about since he took his blindfold off on Dec. 5th. He has told the story to everyone at the hospital. I am confident his recovery will now be even faster due to this amazing gift. The love poured into the camper will travel with Clayton on every adventure. We love you!
Love,
David and Natalie”