A boy who has overcome great challenges got the ride of his life along with a parade and day in his honor on Saturday morning.
Caleb Schrelick, who will turn 5 later this month, was something of a local celebrity as a city proclamation declared Saturday to be Caleb Schrelick Day in Columbus.
Caleb, who likes big trucks, was made an honorary Walmart driver, complete with a work shirt bearing his name. But that was just the start of Caleb’s big day.
Beginning in an 18-wheeler from Columbus East High School, Caleb rode upfront in a big rig, the star in a parade with a police escort that proceeded on a route through downtown Columbus to the Walmart Supercenter at 2025 Merchant Mile.
There, Caleb and his parents, Sarah and Justin Schrelick, were joined by family, friends, well-wishers and co-workers of Justin, who’s an assistant manager at Walmart. At a party in Caleb’s honor, he was showered with affection — not to mention gifts — ahead of his fifth birthday later this month.
The parade was organized by Walmart Heart, a group of Walmart drivers and associates dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities.
Caleb, born weighing just 1.2 pounds, is living his best life despite the serious medical challenges he faces, such as hydrocephalus and cerebral palsy, which affects a person’s ability to move, as well as maintain balance and posture.
As the proclamation signed by Mayor Jim Lienhoop read, Saturday was a day to honor “a great little boy with a big smile and a great attitude.”
