BREAKING: A heartwarming story is unfolding in Hermitage, Tennessee, as a local car wash has turned an autistic boy’s unique birthday wish into reality. James Cortelyou, who recently celebrated his 5th birthday, had two very specific requests: a car wash-themed birthday party and an intricately detailed car wash cake made by his mother, Kate Cortelyou.
The journey to fulfill James’s dream was an emotional ride, documented in a viral TikTok video that showcases the extraordinary efforts of the entire community. After being turned down by multiple venues, Kate’s persistence paid off when she reached out to Washtopia, a car wash in her area. Owner Mike Logan embraced the idea wholeheartedly, stating, “When we first received Kate’s email, our immediate reaction was, ‘Absolutely, this sounds like a fantastic idea.'”
With the party set for July 15, 2023, the employees at Washtopia transformed their break room into a magical space for James. They created a giant welcome sign, provided free car washes for attending families, and even contributed a cake to the festivities. “They didn’t just say yes—they went all in,” Kate shared in her TikTok video.
Logan emphasized the importance of community spirit, saying, “Being an active and supportive member of our community has always been at the heart of who we are.” Their commitment to local children shines through as Washtopia frequently engages with schools and nonprofits, making this car wash party a perfect fit for their mission.
James’s fascination with car washes began when he and his mother would visit them daily, watching in awe from the outside. This passion led to creative play at home, where they built car washes using blocks and LEGOs. When he expressed his birthday desires, Kate knew she had to make it happen.
Despite initial setbacks—receiving responses like “we don’t do that” or “it’s a safety issue”—Kate’s determination never wavered. After reaching out to Washtopia, she poured her heart into her request, which ultimately led to a day filled with joy and laughter.
The party was a huge success, with James exclaiming, “This is the best day of my life,” a statement that has deeply resonated with Logan and the Washtopia team. “There’s no greater reward than knowing we helped create a memory like that,” Logan said.
The impact of this event continues to inspire, with Logan recently sending Kate T-shirts and goodies for her kids, reinforcing the bond formed during this heartwarming celebration. Additionally, Washtopia is now incorporating James’s story into their employee training, highlighting the importance of community engagement and support for children.
This story is a testament to the power of community and the lengths people will go to fulfill the dreams of children. As James looks back on his special day, it serves as a reminder of the joy that can be found in even the most unusual birthday wishes.
Stay tuned for more uplifting stories as communities come together to make dreams come true.
