Firefighters with the Oak Forest Fire Department started a new program aimed at bringing smiles to the community they serve.
The Project Fire Buddies was launched three years ago, after the department realized more needed to be done for the children they meet on emergency calls that are battling challenging illnesses.
"I had an idea of these little guys, like let's bring a fire truck over and hang out. If they're healthy enough, we'll play catch if not we'll play a board game. We'll do whatever it takes," said Oak Forest Fire Department Firefighter/Paramedic Kurt Degroot.
Fire Buddy Pablo Flores was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer that forced him to have his leg amputated. He thought his soccer days were over but Fire Buddies gave him a chance live his dreams taking him to a playoff game for the Chicago Fire.