Thousands Gather To Help Make Boy's Garbage Man Make-A-Wish Day Possible

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) – Thousands of people in Sacramento made Tuesday a dream come true for 6-year-old Ethan Dean.  Thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Ethan got to be a garbage man for the day.

"I want to be a garbage man when I grow up," the 6-year-old told CBS13.  "I like to pick up garbage, I practice at home."

 Ethan has loved the garbage truck for years, according to his parents Erin and Ken.  It's been his passion through all of his medical struggles.  As a newborn, he was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a debilitating disease that often leads to an early death.

"He really is the epitome of what the world needs today," said Sarah Lindner, who has never met Ethan before. "I mean of all of the things that he could have chosen, he chose to actually be of service when he grows up and that's what we need."

Ethan started his day meeting the mayor of Rancho Cordova and getting a key to the city.  Along the way, he met firefighters, Sacramento Police Chief Sam Somers, Sacramento city council member Angelique Ashby and even mayor-elect Darrell Steinberg.

"At some point later today, he'll sort through all of his goodies and things and realize that the city of Sacramento is in his corner," Ashby said.

"It's a respectable job and if that's what he wants to do, we'll definitely support that," said Ken Dean, Ethan's father.

Sam Turman was Ethan's driver for the day.  In his 35 years as a truck driver with Waste Management, today was a first for him.  The day included stops at the Sacramento Bee and Fire Station No. 2, and the steps of the state Capitol.

"I hope this kid gets to live a long life because we need more like him," Lindner said.

Ethan got to have a VIP lunch after his big morning, complete with a garbage truck-shaped cake.