NORTHLAKE, IL — A 15-year-old boy battling cancer in the Chicago suburb of Northlake got the surprise of a lifetime when a nonprofit and local business owners teamed up to transform his bedroom into a healing haven tailored just for him.
A Room Full Of Heart, Hope, And Healing
Gio Flores, a high school student undergoing treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, received a complete room makeover designed to uplift his spirits and reflect his personality. The surprise transformation was delivered by Special Spaces Illinois, a nonprofit dedicated to creating dream bedrooms for children facing life-threatening medical conditions.
The project was made possible through a partnership with local McDonald’s owner-operators Gianna Funkhouser and Nick Kory, who helped fund and implement the initiative.
“We live and work in these neighborhoods and care about the families here,” said Funkhouser in a statement. “We are proud to have been able to help bring Gio’s dream room to life.”
Designing A Space For Recovery
Gio’s new bedroom features:
- LEGO-themed wall art inspired by his interests
- Healing crystals for tranquility and balance
- A navy and gold color palette for comfort and warmth
The space was specifically designed to be both emotionally comforting and physically relaxing, offering Gio a safe environment to rest and recover as he continues treatment.
Community Giving At Its Best
The project underscores the value of community-led support systems, especially for families dealing with health challenges. Special Spaces has been active across Illinois, creating personalized healing spaces for children, but each transformation reflects local connections.
For Funkhouser, Kory, and the volunteer team involved, the effort was more than just about design — it was about bringing hope and comfort to a young person in crisis.
“This is more than a room — it’s a place of peace, strength, and healing,” said a Special Spaces representative. “And that’s what Gio deserves.”
Have you or someone in your neighborhood been positively impacted by community projects like this? Share your story or photos with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com and help spotlight the power of local kindness.
