Meet Charli

Meet Charli! This resilient 9-year-old from Rogersville, Tennessee has faced more in her young life than most. Between hospital stays, therapy sessions, and doctor visits, Charli has missed out on many typical childhood experiences due to living with Baraitser-Winter cerebrofrontofacial (BWCFF) syndrome.

BWCFF affects Charli’s physical development, resulting in her having to wear braces to support her feet and ankles. Despite the challenges that come with her diagnosis, Charli is always moving forward with a smile!

Charli finds comfort in her loving family, her pets, and her deep passion for University of Tennessee Football. She’s an enthusiastic Vols fan who dreams of attending a practice, meeting the players, and cheering them on at a game! Her excitement for the team keeps her spirits high, even during tough times.

Although Charli has faced more than her share of obstacles, she remains one of the happiest, most passionate kids you’ll meet. She rarely complains and always keeps a positive attitude. We’re thrilled to help make her dream of high-fiving University of Tennessee QB, Nico Iamaleava, during the famous Volunteer Walk come true!

Charli's Dream

Charli’s Dream experience started with the sweetest, most heartfelt send off at the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital which included the UTK Collegiate Dream Team, Smokey the mascot, cheerleaders, and UTK dancers! Previous UTK Dream Kid, Tate, also made a special appearance, welcoming Charli into the family of UTK Dream Kids. After, the crew enjoyed breakfast together followed by a manicure appointment where Charli and her sister left with the signature Tennessee orange. A shopping spree at VolShop followed by a stadium tour made for one special afternoon. Charli even got to see Nico’s locker as well as try on a Tennessee football helmet! As Nico’s number one fan, Charli was ecstatic.

After checking into our hotel, the crew made their way downtown for the homecoming parade. Charli was thrilled to once again see her cheer and dance friends as she collected lots of candy! The night wrapped up at the Cheesecake Factory – Charli’s favorite.

Saturday started with time at the local bowling alley followed by being front and center for the famous Vol Walk with previous University of Tennessee CDT Dreamers, Tate and Nash! Here, Charli got to high-five her favorite player, University of Tennessee QB, Nico Iamaleava! She was stunned as the joy radiated from every inch of her. Afterwards, we followed the team on to the sidelines and watched warmups. Charli once again got to see Nico and even got his autograph!

The cheer and dance teams saw Charli on the sidelines and immediately came over to her to welcome her to Neyland Stadium. Before the game started, we headed to our VIP seats to cheer on a Rocky Top victory!

Thank you to the University of Tennessee Collegiate Dream Team for going above and beyond in making Charli’s weekend so special. We know that we all will have memories to last a lifetime!

Dream Snapshots

Volvo
Thank you to our National Collegiate Dream Team Sponsor, Volvo Construction Equipment