Suite Dreams for Alex; Cystic Fibrosis Sufferer Gets Bedroom Makeover
November 3, 2006 - Midwest League (MWL1)
West Michigan Whitecaps News Release
COMSTOCK PARK, MI - Life has never been easy for 13-year-old Alex Cruz. Born with cystic fibrosis, the Grand Rapids teen has spent his childhood in and out of the hospital, struggling to breathe. Because of his disease Alex, an avid sports fan, hasn't been able to play many of the games he's wanted to, Now, Klingman's of Michigan, the Whitecaps and the Suite Dreams Project are giving Alex his own sports mecca where he'll be able to relax and enjoy just about any sport he wants with a brand new room transformation.
The Suite Dreams Project is the brainchild of two Detroit women. Started in March of 2001, the program strives to bring comfort and joy to local children stricken with a serious illness by making over their bedrooms. The redecoration process is done completely by volunteers and most of the paint, furniture and other items are donated. So far, the Suite Dreams Project has transformed more than 50 bedrooms with designs ranging from a jungle safari theme to a rocket ship cockpit.
The Suite Dreams Project was brought to the west side of the state in 2003 by the Whitecaps and Klingman's. In that time, the partners have transformed six rooms for seriously ill children in the area. Designers from Klingman's work with the children to come up with themes that suit their needs and then the plan is implemented with help from Whitecaps front office staff. Klingman's also donates all of the furniture that is used in the room.
In Alex's case, Klingman's designer Kristen Welch met with the teenager and his family to work on the room's new look. Taking into account Alex's love of the sports, the new room will be full of baseballs, basketballs and other sports items, The walls have been painted a light blue to help make the room a tranquil place where Alex can relax. The existing carpet is also being replaced with new carpet courtesy of Stone Mountain Flooring, which will help Alex breathe better.
"I'm thrilled to be a part of this renovation," said Welch. "Not only is the room going to be a great retreat for Alex, but it's also going to be very functional for him. I truly believe the room will grow with him and help as he continues to battle his CF."
Alex and his family will see the completed room when it is revealed for the first time on Friday, November 3 at 4:00 p.m. Representatives from Klingman's, the Whitecaps and DeVos Children's Hospital will also be on hand for the reveal. Alex's house is located just off College Avenue at 437 Quimby NE.
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Midwest League Stories from November 3, 2006
- Reds Name Partial Field Staff for Dragons - Dayton Dragons
- Suite Dreams for Alex; Cystic Fibrosis Sufferer Gets Bedroom Makeover - West Michigan Whitecaps
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