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Family humbled by special gift for boy

Dot’s owner thanks A Special Wish Foundation for trip.

Boy gets special wish: trip to San Diego Zoo

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By Dale Huffman, Staff Writer Updated 8:56 PM Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Robert “Bobby” Bernhard III is suffering from Duchenne, the most severe form of muscular dystrophy, and according to his father, Robert Jr., he was born with it but was not diagnosed until he was about 3.

“The disease does not affect Bobby’s mental abilities,” his father explained. “It is strictly muscular deterioration that will continue to get progressively worse as my son gets older. Bobby is able to walk but gets tired. So he has a wheelchair he can use to go from class to class at school.”

The summer vacation to California to visit the San Diego Zoo, arranged by A Special Wish Foundation, located at 436 Valley St., was set up by friends of the 10-year-old boy.

“Friends of Bobby Bernhard contacted us,” said Ilene Schnabel, director of A Special Wish.

Robert Bernhard Jr., who with his family owns Dot’s supermarkets, one in Kettering and one in Bellbrook, said he is “humbled and deeply appreciative” that his son was gifted with this trip.

“Our family had a garage sale in June with the proceeds going to A Special Wish,” the father said. “As a business, and as a family, we will continue to financially support this group that makes dreams come true for kids like our Bobby.”

Bernhard Jr. said his company has been involved in charity and community events since it was founded by his late father in 1951.

“We have always supported special school activities and the charities of our church,” he said. “I remember in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew, with the support of our customers, we filled a semi-truck with groceries to feed the victims down south.

“We feel it is important to give back to the community, and in view of this generous gift to our son, we will renew with diligence our desire to help others in any way possible.”

Schnabel said her organization also recently received a generous donation from the Mark Garbor Photography studios, of 400 S. Main St. in Springboro, which will help support Bobby’s trip, and future special wish adventures for other children.

She added, “We are so thankful that there are giving folks in our community who help us brighten the lives of children like Bobby.”

For information about the organization and its mission, go to www.aspecialwish.org.

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