Arlington Heights boy with rare disorder has dream weekend, courtesy of the Chicago Bears
An Arlington Heights first-grader with a rare genetic condition enjoyed a dream weekend, courtesy of the Chicago Bears.
Will Thieman of Arlington Heights was named the Bears' Champion of the Game during Sunday’s victory over the Cleveland Browns at Soldier Field.
The Champions of the Game program honors inspiring individuals, often children or teens facing serious health challenges or showing remarkable resilience.
A student at Windsor Elementary school, Will, 7, has MYT1L syndrome, a rare genetic condition discovered in 2018 — the same year Will was born. The syndrome causes cognitive disabilities, autistic characteristics and developmental delays.
Will walked onto the field with his 9-year-old brother Sam and with team mascot Staley as his name appeared on the stadium's big screen.
Will’s mom, Kristene Thieman, called it the most amazing experience.
“Everybody was cheering for him,” she said. “I was on the sideline crying. It was so sweet.”
Will was diagnosed at age 3 after genetic testing. His parents were told the condition was so new that doctors couldn't provide much information beyond directing them to find support communities online.
Will attends Windsor's instructional program and receives multiple therapies several days a week. His mother stays home to manage his schedule and appointments.
The experience was made possible through Uplifting Athletes, a national organization that raises awareness and funds for rare diseases through sports. The program started at Penn State and has expanded to professional organizations. Bears offensive lineman Ryan Bates, an ambassador for Uplifting Athletes, brought it to the Bears when he joined the team.
The football game was the cherry on the top of what proved to be an incredible weekend for the family.
It began Friday at Halas Hall in Lake Forest, where they watched practice from a viewing suite and also met players. Will was invited to break the huddle after practice.
“He got so nervous, he stopped and froze and sat down on the ground,” his mother said. “All the players were like, 'Hey, Will!' And they were like, 'It's OK, we'll come to you.' They all came over to him. It was the nicest thing in the entire world.”
Bears wide receivers Rome Odunze and DJ Moore signed autographs and chatted with Will and Sam.
Quarterback Caleb Williams asked Will how many touchdowns he should score on Sunday. Will's answer: four.
“Four it is,” Williams said.
Despite the frigid temperatures at Soldier Field on Sunday, the family came prepared with hand warmers and layers. The Bears organization provided a close parking pass and kept the family warm in the tunnel before their on-field presentation during a first-quarter TV timeout.
“We walked in and you would have thought we were the most important people on the planet,” Kristene said. “Everyone looked like they dropped everything they were doing for the day to welcome us.”