Local Teen with Heart Condition gets Make-A-Wish Trip

Samuel Portis was adopted from China at 3 years old with a serious heart condition.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation granted him a wish Wednesday night that definitely put a smile on his face.

“We are sending you and your family to Costa Rica on March the 18th. In a week or so you will be heading for Costa Rica!” announced Scott McArdle with Make-A-Wish Alabama.

The 14 year old is headed to Costa Rica.
It’s a dream come true and a big surprise.

“A little overwhelming at first. But once I get to feel it, I’ll feel normal, I guess,” said Samuel.
It’s an all expense paid trip for the whole Portis family, which will include 8 children and two parents.

“One of the reasons I applied was that he is the most laid back selfless child, no matter how challenging we foster, and we’ve had some pretty challenging children in our home, he can get along with all of them. He never voices an opinion on where we are going to eat or vacation. He is just the easiest child. So I wanted to do something so special for him,” said his mother Joy.

The Make-A-Wish reveal party was decorated with a Costa Rican theme and even food that is characteristic of the country.
The trip will be tailored to meet Samuel’s needs and his wants, including seeing his favorite animal– monkeys! And going zip lining.

“To really have this so customized for him, just really is amazing. It will be a special memory for him and for us forever. We are very thankful,” said Joy.

“Just want to thank the Make-A-Wish Foundation for making my wish come true and everyone else’s that will have a wish,” said Samuel.