Wheelchair-bound boy, blessed by Pope, gets crowdfund donations

The family was by Michael’s side when Pope Francis kissed and blessed the boy on a tarmac at Philadelphia global Airport on the first day of his trip to the city on September 26.

The family of Michael Keating – the 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy Pope Francis blessed in Philadelphia last month – has raised more than $114,000 through crowdfunding for his care. “The current handicap accessible vehicle that was donated to them by a family friend is in need of a working ramp and has other maintenance issues”.

Kristin Keating, who has undergone two hernia surgeries from lifting her 70-pound son, said she reluctantly agreed.

The pope’s blessing for one boy has been felt by hundreds more around the globe. He’s saying that it’s going to be okay, and I’m here with you. Michael’s father, Chuck Keating, is the director of a local high school band that was chosen to play for the pontiff upon his arrival, NBC News reported, and the devoutly Catholic family was excited to be part of the festivities. One of the donors is Hollywood director JJ Abrams and his wife Katie, who gave $50,000. Chuck says he and his family are simply overwhelmed.

When they had a free moment at home Tuesday night – the day after a Washington Post story about the family mentioned the online fund-raiser – they saw how much money people had donated. Michael’s mother, Kristin, said it was “life-changing for our family”.

“I feel like so many more people now are keeping him in their prayers. It’s truly fantastic”, Chuck said.

The donations page, set up by friends and family of the ten-year-old, explains that all the financial support they receive will go towards his care and a wheelchair-accessible van.