Big rigs fight against cancer

WILLINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) -- The 13th annual Wishes on Wheels fundraiser for the Make a Wish Foundation took place on Sunday.

It's been a rough road for 8-year-old Zach Kirla of Deep River, since being diagnosed with cancer in 2008. On Sunday, the third grader got to pick his ride and he chose a fire truck.

"I picked a fire truck because I like the dogs that are sometimes on fire trucks," Zach said.

Fire trucks were among the most popular of 400 big rigs taking part in the fundraiser, granting experiences for kids with life-threatening illnesses.

News 8's Erin Cox asked Anthony Herzig what he's going to tell the kids at school tomorrow. "I got to ride on a fire truck," he replied.

"The truckers do it for one reason, the kids, we do this for the kids," said Keith Herzig of Wishes on Wheels.

The road trip was a real break for the kids and their parents.

"The kids love it and to see them smile, it's a wonderful thing," said Lee Kirla, a father of one of the children participating.

The big rigs are able to take over the road because state police literally shut down the right lane of a stretch along I-84.

There's some good news to report as well, Zach is now cancer-free.

"We are doing good, Zach is growing like a weed," said Kirla.

Kirla said they consider this to be a victory lap and kids get to help keep on trucking in the battle to get better.