Miami (AP) - When Dwyane Wade heard the plight of a South Florida woman whose nephew accidentally burned down her home - and ruined all the family's possessions - the Miami Heat star knew he had to do something.
So he replaced the house.
Wade presented Dawn Smith with the ultimate Christmas gift on Wednesday
- the keys to a new home, along with some furnishings, clothing and gifts to
make sure her family has a joyous holiday, something that didn't seem likely
just a few weeks ago.
"That's what I try to teach my kids," said Wade, whose foundation has
hosted several charity events this holiday season, mostly for needy children.
"It's not about what you're going to receive - it's what you can give to others
from what you've received."
Smith couldn't hold back happy sobs when she saw the home for the first
time. "A big time relief," Smith said, clearly overcome by emotion. "Thank
you so much. Thank you so much. Oh, God, thank you so much."
The NBA's leading scorer this season had a simple message: "Hopefully,
you'll like it."
Wade's other holiday events this year included a party for 350 children
on Monday, and hosting 100 kids at Tuesday night's Heat game against the Golden
State Warriors. He also donated $10,000 to each of three children's
organizations, but said he was particularly touched by his gift to the Smith
family.
"We can help this family have a new beginning," Wade said.
