'They are just good people': Local builders help West Fargo family after loss of son
James Miller of West Fargo, died in August following a seizure. The 9-year old lived with pierpont syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. After James' death, the family scrapped plans for a small deck project to help James be outside. But Dawson Contracting of Fargo stepped up and went above and beyond for the family.
A West Fargo family is watching an incredible act of kindness unfold right in their own backyard thanks to some humble, busy local home builders. At first, the Miller family was hoping for a simple, sheltered deck for their son, James, who had severe disabilities. But even after a tragic turn of events, the local contractors kept a promise and then some. James left his family with "really, really great memories," said Danya Miller, his mother. When the Miller family speaks about James, there are smiles and stories.
"We really love this picture of James, it really captures his personality," Danya said of a photograph taken during a family trip. He was "a really genuine kid, who always had a smile," she said.
James Royal Miller. "We called him 'King James,'" Jason Miller, James' father, said of their much-loved boy. Not long after he was born, James was diagnosed with pierpont syndrome, a genetic disorder that caused seizures and a list of medical issues. But he was loved.
"Our world revolved around James. It was tough, but as a family, we all relied on each other," Jason Miller said.
A few months back, the Millers received several bids for a deck they wanted to build so James could spend more time outside. His condition had deteriorated. When contractors Matt and Joey Dawson of Dawson Contracting heard about this, they stepped up to offer their help with the project.
"And there was no 'nos.' They were always (asking), 'How can we, we can do that? We can change things,'" Jason Miller said of the Dawsons.
But things were about to change. In August, James, at age 9, died following a seizure. The family let the contractors know there was no need for any project.
"The night James passed, the next day I reached out to Matt Dawson to tell him James had passed away, so, basically, we don't need the project," Jason Miller said.
But the contractors went above and beyond.
"They showed up that morning with a sympathy card, and Matt and Joey came to James' prayer service. It was very touching," Jason Miller said.
But the Dawson crew had another idea, and for the last few weeks, they have been designing and building a four-season porch for the Millers.
At no cost.
The Dawson Contracting Crew from Fargo works on the Miller's project in West Fargo on Monday, Dec. 8.
That new porch should be ready by the end of January.
This story is from The Inforum and WDAY. Here is the link to the full story:
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