IONIA — A young boy who passed away from cancer has inspired a movement to encourage others to spread acts of kindness in West Michigan.
Five-year-old Peyton Dennis died from a rare form of brain cancer in December, so the community of Ionia rallied around the idea of “Peying” it Forward in his honor.
That idea reached a family in Illinois who started a program called Pedals for Peyton.
It may still be snowing outside but five-year-old Hunter Schollaert is all smiles on his brand new bike.
“He got to ride it a little bit, the day that he got it outside and he shared with his sisters a little bit as well too,” Hunter’s Mom Britney Lopez said.
Hunter is the first kid to receive a bike thanks to “Pedals for Peyton,” a group inspired by Peyton Dennis’ life.
Each month, they will be donating a brand new bike to a child in Peyton's hometown of Ionia and their town in Illinois, with the help of the local police departments.
“Our local police department contacted us yesterday and they let us know, an anonymous family from Illinois, donated a bike in honor of Peyton Dennis. I personally cried because i was so honored they even chose my son to get it,” Lopez said.
Throughout his life, Peyton Dennis touched the hearts of many.
Now months after his death, his legacy has expanded further, with thousands inspired by him to share the love.
“Honestly couldn’t believe how much a little boy has made this great big change all over and it’s not just our little community it’s the whole state of Michigan, it’s reached outside the state of Michigan its, just amazing,” Lopez added.
According to the Facebook page, the family is inviting others to join in on the movement and to share it with others.
For more on Pedals for Peyton or how you can help "Pey" it Forward, click here.
