HUDSON, N.H. – Wednesday morning at Hills Garrison Elementary School had plenty of magic to go around and it all started with Bryce Flaven.
The fourth grader was selected among a large pool of applicants to receive a custom-built costume fit to his wheelchair through Magic Wheelchair, a nationwide organization that brings costumes to life. The organization has a chapter at the University of New Hampshire with students ranging in majors from occupational therapy, art design, engineering, and education who came together in Hudson to make Bryce’s dream a reality.
Donning construction costumes with the phrase “Magic Builders” on the back and hard hats, the UNH students arrived at Hills Garrison a little before 10 a.m. to meet Bryce and building administrators. Using a Paw Patrol theme (Bryce’s favorite TV show), the students put together a custom costume that fit around Bryce’s wheelchair with PVC pipe, cardboard, electronics, and light-up jack-o-lanterns that moved up and down along the sides of the structure. To top it all off, a special New Hampshire vanity license plate with “BRYCE” adorned the front bumper and an orange steering wheel completed the vehicle.
Once all the final touches were complete, Hills Garrison Elementary principal, Ms. Tufts, alerted the building over the PA system that it was time to begin a walking rally. Starting in the first-floor lobby area, Bryce and the Magic Wheelchair team made their way through the halls and were greeted by loud cheers from students, teachers, and building staff alike.
Bryce, his parents, and the Magic Wheelchair team paraded through the first floor, then made their way up to the top floor of the building where they were met with more thunderous applause. A trio of the UNH students trailed Bryce and held a festive banner that read “HAPPY HALLOWEEN BRYCE” to help everyone get in the holiday spirit.
The morning was capped with a photoshoot, as Bryce was surrounded by everyone involved in making the experience so exceptional.