A Pleasant View family has turned their personal tragedy into a Christmas miracle for another local family.
After losing her son Liam in 2011, Mattie Mitchell's family wanted to do something that would continually honor his memory. Liam Changed the World, INC. was established as a non-profit organization in 2012 in order to help in-need families and spread kindness.
"There is no bigger hurt in the world then having to figure out how to go on without him every single day that I wake up. Realizing that I would miss every milestone was even more devastating," says Mitchell. "I have always felt like Christmas is a hard one- just feeling as if he should be there to open his presents, and he’s not. Four years ago I decided to change that."
Since then, the family has pulled off some amazing things for deserving children and their families. To date, their efforts have provided an abundance of holiday cheer to approximately 50 families-- and many more throughout the year.
This year, Liam Changed the World will be helping a 13-year-old Cheatham County boy who is battling Leukemia.
Along with help from the community, Mitchell and her family plan on having a Christmas parade on the street in front of his house on December 11 at Noon. The community is invited to take part in this parade by driving by in decorated cars, honking etc. Those who are interested in participating can find up-to-date information on the Liam Changed the World's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/liamchangedtheworldinc/?ref=page_internal.
And like many boys his age, this year's recipient would love a Playstation 5.
"We are still on the hunt for the PS5, but I’m hoping we get lucky on Black Friday," Mitchell says, optimistic.
Those wishing to donate to the cause should Venmo: Cheatham_surprise, or PayPal: liamchangedtheworld@gmail.com.
Leftover funds raised will go to help the family cover medical expenses.
"We also want to present the family with a check to help take some of the stress off this Christmas. The biggest thing is we just want them to know they are loved in this town, and have community support as they battle one of the hardest fights."
Liam Changed the World will be featured as Fox 17's Christmas story this year.
