Pablo Fernandez of the
Calgary Sun reports:
It wasn't Detroit Rock City, but a trip to L.A. to meet his music idol was the next best thing for a Red Deer teen. Fighting a deadly disease,
Vaughn Tayler's dream of meeting his idol
Gene Simmons came true, thanks to a foundation that grants kids wishes that are otherwise out of reach.
The 14-year-old was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth.
He started suffering seizures 11 years ago, became a huge fan of the band
KISS seven years later, and had one mighty wish come true last month when the
Children's Wish Foundation of Canada flew Vaughn and his family to L.A. to meet the legendary band's bass player.
"When he came into the restaurant, I recognized him right away, so I ran up to him and shook his hand," said Vaughn.
"He was like a normal guy, but fabulous ... I wish I could've stayed down there."
Vaughn, along with his mother
Yvette, his half-sister and stepfather, flew to L.A. on Dec. 13, for a one-week trip that included lunch with
Simmons and an afternoon with the rock star.
Vaughn also had a chance to visit
Universal Studios, Venice Beach and was given a tour of
McGhee Productions, which has recorded names such as
KISS,
BON JOVI and
AEROSMITH.
Yvette said
Vaughn has devoted a large portion of his life to
KISS and has read everything he can find about the band, and
Simmons in particular. He even gets into full
KISS regalia for Halloween, said
Yvette.
And because
Vaughn's second love is basketball, the foundation also made it possible for the teen to attend an
L.A. Lakers game.
Vaughn's bout with cystic fibrosis means he needs daily medical care and must consume an immense amount of pills. His struggle has left him with severe stomach aches, impaired hearing and brain damage. Those stricken with the genetic disease rarely live to be 32.
(Thanks:
Travis /
www.TRIBEOFBUDA.com)
