FC Dallas forward Carlos Ruiz made a teenager's dream come true when he visited the Children's Medical Center in Dallas last week, along with other players from the Guatemalan national team before their friendly against the USA at Pizza Hut Park.
Ruiz visited 17-year-old Edwin Coty last Friday morning and gave him an autographed jersey. The FCD forward shared some time with the boy, who suffers from a serious disease, and took some photos with him. Hours later, Ruiz returned with more members of the Guatemalan national team for a bigger surprise.
"I have seen Edwin's big heart, he likes soccer and knows most of the soccer players; for that reason I talked to coach Marlon Iván León and told him our little friend's story and he agreed to come to the Children's Medical Center," Ruiz said. "It is gratifying because Edwin's life is full of joy and I hope God keeps him in good health."
Coty used to play for the "Los Chapines" team in his Oak Cliff neighborhood. He has been a big soccer fan since he was a little kid. Coty knows nearly everything about all the Guatemalan players, especially "Pescadito" Ruiz, whose career he has followed closely.
Juanita Guerrero, Program Services Coordinator for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Dallas, was one of the people who contacted Marelba Gershman from the Children's Medical Center, in order to establish Ruiz's visit.
"We try to bring joy to the kids and today we gave Edwin a double satisfaction, because he got to meet all his idols," Guerrero said.
Make-A-Wish has served the community for more than 20 years.
"We are here to make true the dream of kids that are seriously ill. We know this way they can recover emotionally, and we hope that with God and doctors' help, a lot of lives can be saved," Guerrero said.
Coty is the son of Jose and Manuela, and was born Oct. 13, 1988. He has three brothers and came to the United States about four years ago. In 2005, due to his health, he was no longer able to attend school.
For more info about Make-A-Wish please call (214) 496-9474 or visit the headquarters located at 6655 Deseo Drive, Irving, Texas.
Luis Lara is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
