Stacey Caldwell knew Alija was an exceptional drummer and wanted her to excel after hearing her story. A talented young man had lost his drum kit in a devastating house fire and was playing with a paint bucket.

“This new friend from Wilmette asked if he could play something. Says he’s never had drum lessons and lost his drum two years ago in a house fire. I’m on a mission to find this guy a drum kit. Please let me know if you have one you want to get rid of. Looks like I need to up my game.”

He continued by saying to the talented boy. “Every time I see you in the hall, you have a smile on your face. You are very humble and I was very impressed by that as much as your talent.”