This spring, Kids with Disability Adventures (KWD) took another big step in its mission to bring joy, confidence, and outdoor experiences to children with special needs. What unfolded was more than just a weekend turkey hunt—it was a heartwarming showcase of resilience, generosity, and the healing power of the outdoors.
Two incredible young girls, Kinley (15) and Kendall (8), took center stage as they set out on their first-ever turkey hunts—an adventure made possible through the combined efforts of passionate sportsmen, local sponsors, and loving families.
Kinley’s Story: Strength Beyond the Chair
Just 10 months before the hunt, Kinley’s life changed in an instant. A freak accident at the gym left her paralyzed after breaking her back at the T10 and T11 vertebrae. She underwent major surgery—two rods and several screws—and spent months rebuilding her strength, physically and emotionally.
So when she arrived at the hunt, it wasn’t just about getting a turkey—it was about reclaiming a sense of independence and achieving something she never imagined possible.
“Being able to come and do this was one of the very first things that she’s been able to like get out and achieve something fun,” said Kinley’s mom. “She’s come a long way. She’s strong.”
Thanks to Compassion Mobility, Kinley was outfitted with an Action Track Chair, allowing her to navigate the rugged terrain with ease. She also received a complete camo wardrobe from King’s Camo and a personalized firearm.
On the morning of the hunt, Kinley waited patiently in the blind. The calling worked, and two toms appeared—one cautiously keeping his distance, while the other locked onto the decoys.
“Okay Kinley, right there. Aim it right on him. Just wait… okay… shoot!”
Kinley took the shot—and made a perfect hit.
“Good job Kinley! Good job!” cheered the guides, as the blind erupted in celebration. “She smoked him! Oh, she did a great job.”
For Kinley, it was more than a successful hunt—it was a moment that lifted her confidence and reminded her what she’s capable of.
Kendall’s Journey: Big Heart, Bigger Courage
Eight-year-old Kendall lives with congenital muscular dystrophy, a condition that weakens her muscles and earlier this year confined her to a wheelchair. But like Kinley, she’s a fighter—and she was more than ready to take part in her first turkey hunt.
Before the hunt, Kendall and her family were surprised with an incredible gift: a brand new wheelchair-accessible van, donated by the Wood family. After losing their wife and mother, Miriam, to cancer, they wanted to honor her giving spirit by paying it forward.
“We got a wheelchair van that it would mean the world to us if you guys would accept that as a gift,” said Nick Wood. “It would help us on our healing journey as we try to find meaning in our loss.”
Nick shared that Miriam had a special place in her heart for children. During her own treatments, she often got emotional when passing Primary Children’s Hospital.
“She was always looking for ways to help people around her… she’d choke up thinking about the kids and the struggles they go through.”
For Kendall’s family, the van was life-changing.
“This is something that I’m never going to forget,” said her father. “We literally were just talking about my truck falling apart… it hasn’t had AC in five years. He really hit a lot of different areas within me—because this is big.”
The Hunt: Adaptive Tools, Big Wins
On her first morning in the blind, Kendall was startled by the sound of the gun—but she didn’t give up. The next day, the KWD team introduced a push-button trigger system, allowing her to fire the gun with just a light press.
“We’re going to give power, then we’re going to give the safety, and then we’re going to tell Kendall to shoot the gun… push, and it fires the weapon.”
The team got into position well before dawn. As the turkeys hit the ground and worked their way up the canyon, the calling from the guides intensified. Then it happened.
“Here he comes, here he comes, here he comes… okay Kendall—push.”
She pressed the button—and hit her mark.
“YES! Good job girl!”
The joy was palpable. Hugs, high-fives, and beaming faces filled the blind.
“That thing’s cool!” Kendall said, grinning ear to ear.
For the volunteers, it was a powerful reminder of why they do this work.
“That’s a game-changer for these kids, it’s inspiring as an adult to see these kids overcome something… pretty cool to see these kids succeed with something they probably thought they couldn’t do.”
Powered by Love, Built on Community
These hunts were made possible thanks to the dedication and generosity of dozens of people and companies who came together to give these kids an unforgettable experience. From custom gear to adaptive equipment, mobility devices, and even transportation—every detail was handled with love.
“It’s neat to see people just step up to make a difference in somebody else’s life instead of your own,” one volunteer said. “What a way to give back.”
Support KWD Adventures
For many of these kids, it’s not just about the hunt—it’s about overcoming challenges, discovering new abilities, and feeling the excitement of achievement.
Your support gives them that chance.
Families walked away not only with wild game but with new confidence, hope, and friendships that will last a lifetime.
“They’re going to remember what they did. They’re going to remember how it made them feel. And that’s the most important thing.”
From all of us at KWD Adventures we invite you to support these incredible efforts, share these stories, and most of all—get out, explore wild places, and make unforgettable memories with the kids in your life.