JACKMAN, Maine — Since September, hundreds of Maine hunters have hit the woods for this year's moose season.
Three Maine youngsters with critical illnesses are also getting to experience the thrill of the hunt, something they had only dreamed about until now.
Aiden Palmer vividly remembers feeling incredibly tired while visiting a water park with his family.
He was just eight years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia, which attacks the body's bone marrow and lymphatic system. After battling cancer for two years with rounds of chemo and other treatments, the disease is in remission.
The now 10-year-old from Readfield is embarking on a dream—one cancer couldn't take from him.
"I hope to get a big one, but I am not looking for a record book one," Aiden quipped.
Aiden, Kellan Tilton of Detroit, and Christopher Mitchell of Island Falls, are hunting moose thanks to a new law. It expanded the number of moose permits given to nonprofits nationwide from two to five, stipulating that three Maine kids receive them through a state nonprofit. Moose Maine Kids, which allows kids of all abilities to explore outdoor activities, guides the week-long hunts.
"These kids don't have a fair shot at normal things. These 'dream adventures' are meant to be a vacation from being sick," Ron Greco, the nonprofit's executive director, explained.
A team of volunteers who are registered hunting guides teach the kids how to use a hunting rifle. They are given hunting gear, including orange hats and camo clothing. The youngsters learn about moose habitat and how to imitate a bull by raking the brush.
"It's one thing that lets other moose know they're there; it can be an act of aggression. It can let a cow know they are coming into heat," Travis Cutler, a registered hunting guide and Moose Maine Kids board member, said.
The nonprofit also provides accommodations for the kids and their families while they hunt. Aiden is also learning skills he can use outdoors throughout his lifetime.
"Hunting moose is more about listening than actually looking when you listen; you can tell when there is a moose," Aiden explained.
Aiden, who still takes medication to keep cancerous cells from coming back, hopes living his dream will inspire others battling health problems.
"You can still do some cool stuff," he added.
