Hawke's Bay Today News Editor James Ford. PHOTO / File.
Tyler Holdsworth's story on page 4 of today's paper is as tear jerking and inspirational as any.
The 18-year-old is one of 20 in the world who have Timothy Syndrome - a severe cardiac arrhythmia.
It develops spontaneous genetic mutations that interfere with calcium channels.
Read more: Hastings teen's dying wish to thank US benefactors fulfilled
Initially Tyler had a life expectancy of five years, but he has bravely defied the odds.
He also has Long QT Syndrome, a disorder of the electrical activity of the heart, which can result in blackouts and death.
But through the generous help of the online community and a Havelock North High School mufti day, one of Tyler's lifelong dreams will be realised as he heads to LA.
Another heart-warming touch was added to Tyler's story by Hastings House of Travel's Jenny Nilsson, who presented his grandmother, Brenda, with a free ticket to join him.
Tyler's grandmother has cared for him since his mother passed away when he was 6 and had been saving to purchase her own ticket.
Now the extra cash means the pair can go to DisneyLand.
In the midst of such a sad story, the kindness of those that who Tyler, and strangers too, is enough to renew anyone's faith in the goodness of others.
It is difficult to come to terms with someone so young talking about their bucket list.
Hopefully this trip will be one to remember for Tyler, I wish him all the best on his travels.
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