Dream come true

FIRM friends. . . Jason with his new pal, wrestler Big Show

A DREAM came true for Royton teenager Jason Keevil who met his wrestling idols during a trip to America to celebrate his 18th birthday.

Jason, who has Downs Syndrome, travelled to Houston, Texas, to watch the WWE 25th anniversary celebrations with 76,000 other fans at the Reliant Stadium.

His trip was made possible thanks to Dreams Come True, a charity which helps fulfil the wishes of terminally or seriously ill children.

Jason, who attends New Bridge Learning Centre, Fitton Hill, was accompanied by mum Mandy, stepfather Kevin and stepbrother Gareth on the week-long trip.

Mandy said: “It was an absolutely amazing experience for Jason.

“He has always been fascinated with wrestling and got to meet all his favourite stars, posed for pictures with them and got their autographs — he was in his element.

“Before we went, we had a birthday party for Jason at home and we asked guests to bring money rather than presents and he collected £800 which he took to Texas for souvenirs and wrestling merchandise.”

Despite Jason’s condition, he is largely independent.

“He will stay at New Bridge until he is 19 and then try to find work — he wants to get his own place so he can be even more independent,” added Mandy.

Memories of the dream trip were almost lost when all images on the family’s digital camera were accidentally deleted.

“He was devastated but I found a recovery programme for the camera which found all the pictures so he can now look back on his time in Texas whenever he wants,” said Mandy.

For more information on Dreams Come True visit www.dctc.org.uk. If anyone can help Jason find a job or a voluntary placement, call Mandy on 07858-553 497.