MELROSE, Mass. — Seven-year-old Ryan Feeney of Melrose got his wished granted Friday morning when New England Patriots Tight End Rob Gronkowski showed up in his backyard.
Feeney was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF1), a genetic disorder of the nervous system, at four months old. Since then, Feeney developed tibia dysplasia and received a below-knee amputation and is currently undergoing chemotherapy for an optic nerve tumor that has compromised his vision.
MORE >> PHOTOS: Gronk grants local boy's wish
Every wish represents a community of generosity & we're grateful to all in @CityofMelrose & beyond who helped grant Ryan's wish! #8000wishes pic.twitter.com/1SSTTkM618
— Make-A-Wish Mass RI (@MakeAWishMassRI) September 1, 2017
Feeney wished for a New England Patriots-themed football field in his backyard. Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island hosted a “tailgate” party for Feeney, his friends, family and community. Gronk and Pat Patriot, the Patriots mascot, made a special appearance. Feeney received a personalized Make-A-Wish football jersey, scoreboard, team benches, bleachers and a custom ‘Ryan Feeney Field’ sign.
— City of Melrose (@CityofMelrose) September 1, 2017
Feeney’s football event marked Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s 8,000th wish granted.
Cox Media Group
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