arts
Lauderhill boy receives special tour of MIA from Make-A-Wish Southern Florida
By Jayme Berezdivin at WSVN 7 News
· June 23, 2026
· 1 min read
An 11-year-old boy’s wish to become an airline pilot has been granted. Ryan McKenzie, a Lauderhill resident, suffers from heart disease. His parents said he has always dreamed of being a pilot. “Even though they say he can’t see well, he always seems to see the airplane and hear it, and he always sa
Key takeaway “Even though they say he can’t see well, he always seems to see the airplane and hear it, and he always says ‘airplane,’ and that’s the only thing he says, so airplane is a thing he’s always loved,” said Sherika Coley, McKenzie’s mother.
Why this matters in The Miami
Miami International Airport's role in granting Ryan McKenzie's wish to become an airline pilot is a testament to the airport's connection to the local community. As a major hub, MIA is often associated with the city's thriving tourism and commerce, but this story highlights its capacity to make a positive impact on individual lives. The fact that Make-A-Wish Southern Florida was able to facilitate this experience at MIA also speaks to the organization's strong presence in the region, which is home to a diverse population, including many families with children who may be facing serious illnesses like Ryan's heart disease. The airport's proximity to neighborhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood, which are known for their vibrant cultural scenes, is also a reminder that even in a bustling metropolis like Miami, there are still opportunities for meaningful interactions and community engagement.
About this story
Original reporting by WSVN 7 News . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSVN 7 News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: arts ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: WSVN 7 News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? An 11-year-old boy’s wish to become an airline pilot has been granted. Ryan McKenzie, a Lauderhill resident, suffers from heart disease. His parents said he has always dreamed of being a pilot. “Even though they say he can’t see well, he always seems to see the airplane and hear it, and he always sa
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by WSVN 7 News and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jayme Berezdivin at WSVN 7 News. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more arts coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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