Birthday boy's trip with his grandpa is a memory to treasure

A 10-year-old's fishing trip captured the heart and soul of his mom's new book.

Every year for his birthday, Asa Hepworth's grandparents, Bibi and Papa, host a special birthday treat.

On the docket this time? Fishing with Papa.

Asa's relationship with his grandparents is special. According to his mom, Ebie, whenever it's time to visit with them, Asa can hardly contain his excitement.

"I often have to be careful not to tell him too early that he is going to their house, or he will sit in front of the window watching and waiting for them for hours," Ebie said.

On the day of the fishing trip, Asa woke his mom at 4:45 a.m. in their Boise, Idaho, home, excited as usual.

Asa has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a rare, incurable, life-limiting genetic disease that gradually weakens every muscle in the body.

"Because of that, it is deeply important to our family that while Asa is still physically able to do the things that make childhood special and memorable, we do them, and we do them 150%," Ebie said.

After two hours of double-checking he had everything he needed, including a tackle box he'd stocked with an apple and string cheese, Asa climbed into Papa's truck for a glorious day on the water.

For Ebie, moments like that are a reminder the little things can mean the most.

"Childhood is built in ordinary moments: fishing trips, packed tackle boxes, early-morning excitement, time with grandparents, and the feeling of being deeply known and wanted," Ebie said. "For a child like Asa, whose physical abilities may change over time, those shared experiences carry an even deeper significance. Fishing with his Papa is not only an activity. It is connection, dignity, adventure, and a memory he gets to carry with him."

The day was a huge success: Asa and his grandpa caught a bucketful of fish, and Asa even got to drive the boat.

Watch the video above to see Asa's birthday adventure with Papa.

Asa's story is at the heart of Ebie's first book, "Midnight Hallelujah," which releases during Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month. Much of it is shaped by what her son's life has taught her about hope.

"Hope is choosing to believe that even here — even in the uncertainty, grief, and limitations — there is still a beautiful life to be lived, love to be given, and joy worth reaching for," Ebie said.

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