Tulsa Teen With Cerebral Palsy Becomes 911 Dispatcher For A Day

A 15-year-old teen who suffers from cerebral palsy had his dream of being a Tulsa 911 dispatcher come true Friday.

The Kids Wish Network, along with the Tulsa Firefighters Union, helped give Eric Ford an experience he will never forget with a tour that started at the Tulsa 911 Center.

While most 15 year olds are learning to drive, Erik spends most of his days on bed rest due to cerebral palsy, but Friday was different.

Eric’s grandfather, Ralph Cooks, said, "He's a great grandson. He never wants. He’s just happy."

Friday, the Kids Wish Network, along with the Tulsa Firefighters Union, gave Erik something he's always dreamed of but never asked for – the opportunity to be a dispatcher.

"We got you a name tag, just like everyone has,” they showed Erik.

He got to listen to a few calls then dispatched a few, himself. His voice went out over the radios, and firefighters responded.

“He did great! He talked, I didn't think he was going to talk," Erik’s grandfather said.

Cooks and his wife adopted Erik from foster care nine years ago.

Although, getting him all the medical care he needs has been challenging, Cooks said Erik has completely changed his life.

"We just come together, and got to be a family better, and everything is slow and it's been hard to get Erik things,” he said.

Erik has had one neck surgery and will have another surgery in February.

Cooks said they just take it one step at a time, but Friday was incredibly special to Erik. He was very appreciative of the experience, which Cooks said is nothing out of the ordinary for his grandson.

"If I could get some other grandchildren like Erik, I'd be alright," he said.

Erik's surprises didn't stop there. He also toured a fire station, had a big screen TV waiting for him when he got home and was also given gear to take home.

Erik is also getting a room makeover so his bedroom is more wheelchair accessible.