Ginger Wynn's son, Dakoyta, was born prematurely with a brain injury that causes cerebral palsy. Fourteen years later, he's endured a host of medical ailments as well as surgeries that have caused him to have to relearn to walk twice.
It hasn't been an easy road. Among other things, Dakoyta's disabilities have kept him from having the same interaction and playing the same sports as his peers. One thing that has given him solace is being able to play video games.
Ginger, a single and disabled mother, couldn't afford what he truly wanted for his birthday: an Xbox One.
That's where a new group of local gamers stepped in. Gamers of JC MO heard about Dakoyta and his medical struggles and decided to do something for the Fulton boy.
On Friday, a day before his 14th birthday, he not only got his new game system, but he gained a new network of friends.
Gamers of JC MO threw him a surprise party at Aqueous Vapor, their Jefferson City meeting place, giving him the Xbox One, six games and two controllers.
"It's just amazing to me," Ginger said. "My son was shocked. He said, "People really do love me, Mom!' He still says, "These angels came and brought me an Xbox.'
"I was just overwhelmed," she said. "Just so surprised and grateful. I do believe that blessings come to families that need it, when you pray and just ask God. There are good people in this world."
Kasha Zimmerman, who formed the Gamers of JC MO on Facebook just a few months ago, also spearheaded the effort to raise money for the special gift.
About 30-40 members of the group, which formed a few months ago for local video game players and Dungeons & Dragons-type gamers, met in person for the first time a little over a week ago. At that meeting, they collected more than $200.
Since then, they've raised more money and taken advantage of employee discounts at local stores to maximize their donations.
"I didn't cry until after the event," said Zimmerman, who was still holding back tears during a phone interview. "The look on his face was adorable. He just had the biggest smile on his face."
One by one, they brought Dakoyta a stream of presents and cards. Although the event is over, their relationship isn't. He's joined their Facebook group, and appears to have made lasting friendships.
Zimmerman said she was planning to head over to his house later on Sunday to help him connect to group members via Xbox Live.
"And he said he's going to teach me how to play Minecraft. I'm really excited about that," she said.