Local teen receives Make-A-Wish trip to Dodger Stadium | News

MARION, Ill. — Growing up with debilitating kidney disease, Braxton Kincheloe persevered through many challenges in his life.

On Tuesday, he planned to throw out the first pitch in the middle of a Thrillville Thrillbillies doubleheader. But what he didn't know was the surprise that awaited him.

Thanks to Make-A-Wish Illinois, Braxton, a longtime Los Angeles Dodgers fan, was surprised with a trip to Dodger Stadium, as well as a Mookie Betts jersey.

“It all happened pretty quickly,” Braxton Kincheloe said. “I’m trying to process it, but it’s great.”

Braxton stood alongside his parents, Jesselee Kincheloe and Danielle Burford, while hearing the news via a video message from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.

Jesselee Kincheloe, an active-duty staff sergeant, donated one of her kidneys to Braxton two years ago. He made the trip from Tennessee specifically to go to southern Illinois to have Braxton's wish granted.

Despite all the adversity, Braxton was able to keep his head high and keep moving forward, making moments like Tuesday possible.

“He usually takes it better than we do,” Burford said.

While this won't be Braxton's first Dodgers game, it will be his first in Los Angeles.

“I’ve been to a Cardinals game, but it’s not the same,” Braxton Kincheloe said.