Eli is a vibrant and imaginative seven-year-old boy from Chesterfield, Virginia whose life has been disrupted by a long and arduous battle with a serious illness. Knowing that Eli was responding well to music therapy as part of his medical journey, his parents worked with Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia to grant his wish of creating a music room in their house.

When the day to unveil the space finally arrived, Eli’s friends and family joined him to see his reaction. As his mom brought him into the room, Eli's eyes widened, and a smile appeared on his face. The walls were adorned with musical notes and colorful artwork while the room itself was filled with a variety of instruments, including a full-sized keyboard!

As he heard one of his favorite songs playing through a new speaker, he looked around to take everything in. The room was not just a collection of instruments, but a space where he could relax, unleash his creativity, and let his imagination soar.

Eli’s dad, a local paramedic, expressed his appreciation for the room and for the work of Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia.

Since the room was completed, Eli's music room has become one of his favorite places to be. It’s a space where he works with his music therapist, enjoys the sensory feeling of different instruments, and gathers with his family and friends. The room resonates with laughter, love, and the healing power of music.

Eli's mom, who put an incredible amount of time and effort into planning the space was so happy at our son’s reaction. "We're so thankful for you all helping us to make an absolutely amazing room for our warrior to just relax and be a kid," she said.