For 6-year-old Cameron, some of the best things in life have a common theme – hockey. At any time, you can find Cameron talking hockey, watching it on television, watching his oldest brother play, or – most importantly – cheering for the players on his favorite team, the Los Angeles Kings. More than anything else, Cameron wanted to play hockey with the Kings, so he asked wish granters with the Make-A-Wish Foundation^® of Greater Los Angeles to make him a player.

After waiting six months to recover from surgery, the little athlete was ready to go when a limousine picked up his family for their trip to the Kings’ training center in El Segundo. With three brothers, three sisters, two parents, and a baby sibling due soon, Cameron boasts quite a home team himself. At the hallowed rink, the rest of the crew took their seats in the stands, while Cameron – decked out in his pads and skates – waited with his father on the Kings bench for his cue to take the ice. Team star Ian Laperriere made sure his young teammate was properly outfitted, as he skated up and presented Cameron with his very own team jersey. He even helped the awestruck boy slip into it.

With his last name stitched across his shoulders and #1 emblazoned on his back, Cameron the L.A. King hit the ice and dished out hip checks, slap shots, and passes. He weaved his way through the legs of Laperriere and veteran Derek Armstrong, and racked up goals on goalie Cristobal Huet. Laperriere took a particular liking to the new rookie, who reminded him of his own son.

At the end of the session, the team members invited Cameron and his cheer squad to the locker room for their customary post-practice Gatorade. In addition to cooling off with sports drink, the players signed autographs and posed for pictures. Laperriere extended a special invitation for the nine family members to be his guests at the following night’s Kings game versus the Columbus Blue Jackets at the downtown STAPLES Center. They eagerly accepted.

The next night, the Kings outmuscled the Blue Jackets in a 4-3 victory. Cameron’s new buddy scored two goals and demanded to keep the puck after the first score. Laperriere presented it to his new friend, along with the hockey stick he used that night, which he had signed by all of the Los Angeles Kings.

The whole experience inspired Cameron’s aunt to write a note of thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Aunt Lucy explained that Cameron’s relatives rejoiced in hearing about his happiness: “It certainly does his family’s hearts good to see the smiles on his face due to your efforts. You have truly given our Cameron and his family some wonderful memories … You have not only affected Cameron’s life, but all of us who love him so dearly. A million thanks to all of you who do so much for so many. You are all miracle workers in your own right!”