DePaul Expressions Vol XXIV Num1

Giving Malachi the Gift of Color Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Whitney Showalter Photography

Imagine a childhood without color. You love play ing soccer, but your soccer ball blends in with the grass. You go to school, but your assignments are hard to read. You love being outside and exploring the world around you but most of that world exists in shades of greens and grays. This was 9-year-old Malachi’s reality until his parents found corrective glasses, and DePaul’s Bridge to Hope Fund helped them cover the cost. “We were very concerned about how this challenge might impact our family and Malachi’s future,” said Keigan, Malachi’s father. “We were very excited and grateful to learn that DePaul could help us and offset a large portion of that necessary cost. That gives us more room to be able to focus on what Malachi needs and not worry about the cost of treatment.” Keigan and his wife, Micaela, adopted Malachi several years ago. Their decision to become foster parents and then adoptive parents was driven by their shared belief that no child should live without safety, stability, and love.

“When you have a heart to help children and see one in need, it makes the decision easier,” said Micaela. “We have been able to share the love that God has shown to us.” Since becoming part of their family, Malachi is more outgoing, independent, and more secure. He’s also a big brother now to two siblings. Through DePaul’s Post-Adoption Program, the family has grown stronger and found a supportive community. “To see how far he’s come is nothing short of a miracle,” said Keigan. “To look back and see our family after this journey is such a blessing and a gift.” After years of overcoming obstacles together, Keigan and Micaela were heartbroken to find out that Malachi was struggling with color-blindness. Through testing, they found a path to treatment and a pair of corrective glasses. But it came at a significant cost. When DePaul heard about Malachi’s need, it stepped in with financial assistance through the Bridge to Hope Fund. Now the family’s world has one less worry and a lot more color. “These glasses have truly changed his life,” said Keigan.

“These glasses have truly changed his life.”

— KEIGAN

7 | SPRING 2026