8-year-old steps up for friend in wheelchair after insurance fails him: 'Get Kamden Rollin' again'

There are no barriers that can keep friends apart. If any obstacles should arise, they only enhance the friendship and make it stronger. For then-8-year-old Paul Burnett and his friend Kamden Houshen, things were the same. The duo met in kindergarten and have been inseparable, reports Good News Network. Unfortunately, Houshen had a tumor in his spine and needed surgery to have it removed. He was paralyzed after the surgery and required a wheelchair to move around. Meanwhile, Burnett befriended and stuck by Houshen. 

Their bond revolved around getting Happy Meals, doing everything from school together and playing with each other. Before the duo could begin third grade, Burnett noticed that his beloved friend was having trouble with his wheelchair. Houshen’s mom was tasked with having to carry her boy around since the wheelchair they had was heavy and bulky. The only option then was to buy another wheelchair. Houshen tested a lighter and more accessible wheelchair. Sadly, his insurance wouldn’t get him the same until a year or more later. Moving around was difficult for the boy, but what could an 8-year-old do? Quite a lot, as per Burnett.

The young boy took inspiration from YouTube videos and with the guidance of his parents, he set up a GoFundMe titled “Get Kamden Rollin’ again!” The energetic young boy shared a heartfelt plea on the page, explaining his bestie’s situation and his need. He wrote, “My friend Kamden was born with something on his spine and he can’t walk. He has been in a wheelchair since before I met him.” With help from his mum, Burnett set up the page and requested people pitch in to buy Houshen a new wheelchair. He asked people to help so his friend could move around without feeling burdensome. 

He observed his friend’s plight and was sure to bring it to light. “His wheelchair has fallen forward many times and that sucks. Also, he has a really hard time pushing it because it’s so heavy. But do you even know what’s worse than that? His wheelchair is too big for him to fit in his bathroom. He can’t even fit through the door and use the toilet without asking for help,” the 8-year-old mentioned. He shared pictures of himself with Houshen and people were moved. He immediately started receiving donations. Meanwhile, the boys went on a rocky road with Houshen’s health deteriorating, needing surgery and several other challenges.  

Burnett stuck with him throughout. He has been constantly sharing updates on the fund page. After many trials, Houshen was back in great health and could purchase a brand new wheelchair with the thousands of dollars raised. “We are happy to share the good news that Kamden has received his new wheelchair. He had emergency surgery and is currently recovering in the hospital. We are extremely grateful for your continued support and Paul is so happy to know that you have all been so amazing during this journey,” the update read. The page has raised over $23k so far. Even years later, Burnett continues to share updates of Houshen and the community is beyond helpful in donating for his treatment and well-being.