WAUKESHA — Four months ago, a sudden brain bleed turned into a life-or-death emergency for 10-year-old Wesley Ulrich.
On Sunday, the Waukesha community came together at an event to not only celebrate how far he’s come, but also to raise support to help his family on the road ahead.
Family friends invited TMJ4 to the fundraiser, called “Warriors for Wesley,” at Fox River Church which included food, a dunk tank, and a silent auction.
The moment that drew the biggest applause, however, came when Wesley sat at the piano.
Wesley has always had perfect pitch, but his parents say his playing has soared since undergoing two brain surgeries in May.
“He’s amazing. Watching him play brings a smile to your face, especially knowing where he was and how far he’s come already,” said family friend Trisha Erickson.
Doctors diagnosed Wesley with an arteriovenous malformation, or AVM, after he told his mom it felt like “something blew in my head” during a trip up north.
The abnormal tangle of blood vessels ruptured, and surgeons operated twice to save him.
“He is truly a walking miracle,” said his mother, Laura Ulrich. “He’s gotten through a lot already, but we know we still have challenges ahead.”
Since leaving the hospital, Wesley has begun his first two weeks in fourth grade, where he meets with a reading specialist several afternoons a week.
His parents say the brain injury left him struggling with reading, sometimes making it feel like dyslexia. He also attends regular therapy sessions and physical conditioning to rebuild his strength.
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Even with those challenges, Wesley has found joy in returning to everyday life.
He recently played in a scrimmage baseball game, hitting a line drive in his first game back. He says playing piano almost daily also lifts his spirits.
Family friends organized the benefit and said the large turnout showed how deeply the community cares.
“The Ulrichs are a really special family. Today demonstrates just how many people love and have been praying for them,” Erickson said.
Wesley’s father, Kevin Ulrich, said the support gives their family strength.
“It’s absolutely incredible. This community has been so fantastic to our family,” he said. “We could’ve never asked for more.”
For updates or ways to help, you can visit the “Warriors for Wesley” Facebook page.
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