Allegheny Township boy doesn't let illness or coronavirus stop 7th birthday party

Seven-year-old Kohldon Haggerty had to put off his birthday plans the past two years because of illness.

But not this year — despite even the coronavirus and its social distancing restrictions.

Kohldon celebrated Saturday outside his Allegheny Township home with a bona fide parade, complete with police cruisers, fire trucks, balloons and flashing lights.

Shrine Clowns and miniature Model T’s made their way past a smiling Kohldon, who stood on the lawn of his Waco Drive home and waved to well-wishers.

Kohldon’s mom, Erin Wagner-Haggerty, said there was a steady stream of parade traffic that lasted 45 minutes.

Not a bad birthday bash that actually was Plan B. Kohldon was slated to have a more traditional party until temporary business closings and social distancing were ordered.

So Wagner-Haggerty posted a community request on social media, asking to create the biggest hoopla possible for her son.

“My goal (was) to get as many vehicles (as possible) with friends and family to drive by to wish him a Happy Birthday,” she said.

“I wanted people to be creative. Decorate their cars. Make signs. Blow horns. Stop and sing. Play a song. Bring others. Bring their pet(s).”

Shriners Clowns Captain Dennis “Radish” Schweinsburg said his members were “happy to participate in celebrating Kohldon’s birthday safely. Bringing a smile to a child’s face is what we do best.“

Shriners Recorder Bob Addleman said the request “hit me right where I live.”

“We like to say, ‘No one stands taller than when they stoop to help a child.’ Our guys gladly stepped up to volunteer their help. It’s a parade, It’s helping kids. It’s what we do.”

Kohldon’s mom said that after the spectacle, he remarked very seriously, “I’m a rich man, now.”