Usually when the Make-A-Wish Foundation sees a sports-related wish come across its desk, it’s to meet an athlete or coach in person, or attend a once-in-a-lifetime game. Not often does the child with a critical illness ask to get in on the television broadcast side of the business.
That’s what makes high school senior Kahlel Young so unique. The Seattle area teen had to miss his senior year of football because he’s been battling cancer for a second time. So, he figured he’d use his one wish to get his feet wet in sportscasting, and see what life could potentially be like in the future, after he graduates from college.
KOMO News opened their newsroom doors for Young and made him an honorary member of the news team. He read some Mariners and Seahawks news from the teleprompter, and was even surprised on-air with an appearance by 13-year NFL veteran and 9-time Pro Bowl Seahawks offensive lineman, Walter Jones.
That wasn’t the only former gridiron star who popped in. Norm Johnson, who was a kicker for the Seahawks from 1982 to 1990, stopped by to convince Young to turn away from his allegiance to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
After that, it was on to the radio booth, where Young gave an interview about his difficult battle with cancer. But, he also shared his dreams for the future.
“I should be getting my port taken out of my chest in about a month,” he said. “I’m going to be moving forward and beat cancer for the second time, and start playing football again.”
To end his first day on the “job,” he was greeted by the University of Washington marching band and former NFL quarterback Damon Huard, who gave him some Huskies gear.
“It’s probably the greatest day I’ve ever had,” he said through a non-stop smile.
You can’t argue with this”talking head.”
