Living with several severe disabilities that affect his mobility and cognition, fifteen-year-old Logan has an insatiable passion for cars and driving. Logan’s jaw drops when he sees trucks or tractors, and he only gets more excited when he gets the chance to ride in them. As Logan will likely not be able to qualify for a driver’s license, it has become a challenge for his family to find ways to get him safely behind the wheel while enjoying the fresh air and social interaction of being outside. When he was younger, Logan enjoyed riding in his friends’ toy cars, but he has never had his own set of wheels - and as his friends get older and start driving, the need for a relatable experience is important to his mental health and happiness.
When Logan received his Shine Dream, a red Porsche ride on car, his eyes grew to the size of saucers, overjoyed with his new ride. With the help of Shine, he is able to enjoy the independence of a car from the safety of his backyard and neighbourhood sidewalks under adult supervision. Logan can now feel the freedom of being in his own driver’s seat, complete with a matching Porsche jacket and keychain. Although technically a ‘toy’ car, Shine ensured that Logan’s Porsche can hold adult weight, allowing him to enjoy his vehicle as he grows.
Reflecting on Logan’s Shine Dream, his mom shared that he now likes to go outside more because it means he gets to ride his car. He has been spending more time outdoors connecting with his brother and sister, driving around and honking his horn so his neighbours know he’s on an adventure. Logan’s friends take turns riding in his car and listening to music on the built-in mp3 player, but with giant “Logan” stickers on the doors of his Porsche, it’s very clear who actually holds the keys.
Shine works together with young people on a future-focused dream that builds confidence, independence, and optimism. As Logan wheels along the neighbourhood sidewalks and parks experiencing his newfound independence, he now sees himself as capable of achieving more of his aspirations.
