We have been creating makeovers for those in-need for nearly 25 years now. However, this project has been one of the most dramatic because of the health crisis that threatened Elijah's life during the makeover week. Please watch the reveal video, comment and share. Design can truly change things......
Watch Full Screen by clicking on the 4-small arrows to the left of Vimeo above!
Please leave a comment and Design Gives Back will donate $1 on your behalf to The Bone Marrow Foundation to help others like Elijah and Isaiah. Commenting open until February 15, 2016 (extended upon request). Please share on Facebook and elsewhere. Just let us know how many comments you receive per your website, or Facebook page. Please also have them comment here. We will donate $1 for each comment we receive at any of these locations. Email us a link to your comments page on February 15, 2016, to be counted.
One Comment from You = $1 donation from us at Design Gives Back
We would like to thank all of our sponsors, donors and volunteers. The heroism and kindness of your gifts to the Daniel family will never be forgotten. See the video for the entire list.
This is an amazing video. I am emotional watching it. Congratulations to the family and volunteers for creating something so good.
Posted by: Steve H. | 11/29/2015 at 09:04 PM
We are grateful to all of our team and thank-you to the Daniel family for being open to the makeover process and desiring to share their story. The courage of sharing one's struggles results in transforming pain to beauty -- for ourselves and for all who read about or view the video. Inspirational stories like this one change individual struggles into human triumph for all.
Thank-you to the Daniel family for this inspiring journey!
Kelee Katillac
Design Gives Back, Founder
Posted by: Kelee Katillac | 11/29/2015 at 09:45 PM
I am brought to tears viewing this video, it is AMAZING in so many ways I'm at a loss of words to articulate how touching and inspiring this video truly is for me. Blessed is a word that comes to mind. I believe I am blessed with a gift to be a blessing to others and I'm able to do just that being a part of the Design Gives Back Team. Kelee and Steve, a thousand thank yous for being the 'miracle' makers! -Sher
Posted by: Sherry Mirador | 11/29/2015 at 09:49 PM
Very good story , family is my prayers .
Posted by: Elizabeth | 11/30/2015 at 12:43 AM
This video was absolutely amazing. I love to see good things happen to people that deserve it. It was very heart warming and inspirational to watch.
Posted by: James Jenkins | 11/30/2015 at 12:45 AM
Wow! This was so nice of you guys.
Posted by: Jaeauna | 11/30/2015 at 12:48 AM
The Daniel Family is in my prayers.
Posted by: Isaiah Colbert | 11/30/2015 at 12:50 AM
This video is so inspiring and it makes me want to change the world.
Posted by: William Samuels | 11/30/2015 at 12:51 AM
"Lord forgive us when we whine", We are your children and the world
is thine. Jehovah Rapha=Our God that heals...Jehovah Jireh= Our
God that provides (In the name of Jesus) truly blessed this family.
Design gives back (Kelee and Steve) and their team are truly Angels...God was in this to win it, and he did.
The video tells this Awesome story, filled with faith in God.
Prayerfully the Daniel's story will let others know that there is
No secret what God can do, what he did for them he can do for you.
May the peace of the Lord be with you. Marva and Donald D. Ford
Posted by: Marva and Donald D. Ford | 11/30/2015 at 04:27 AM
It has been a pleasure to get to know and photograph the Daniel family. Having a healthy son of my own who is the same age as Elijah really made these sessions extra special for me. Despite the difficulties that no little boy should have to endure, he is still has a wonderfully fun personality. He is sweet and caring and knows how to swing a foam sword. :-)
Posted by: Darla Peters | 11/30/2015 at 09:56 AM
What an amazing story. I love both of the rooms, and I love seeing the smile on Isaiah's face as he went into his room. It is so clear that both boys deserve something so special in their lives. This is a beautiful family.
Posted by: Terry Kottman | 11/30/2015 at 01:44 PM
I worked with Nakia and have prayed for Elijah (the whole family really) daily since I met her. They are an amazing family. Nakia was such a tremendous help to me when my son passed away. I am so glad to see them receive something like this - they so deserve it. Elijah, I love your room - yours too Isaiah.
Posted by: Joyce | 11/30/2015 at 01:46 PM
This whole process was amazing, from beginning to end. It was life restoring for their parents, and a new start for the boys; I am sure of that. The makeover was completely amazing!! Both of the boys rooms were suited, made and built just for them and had their personalities all over them. Both the boys and parents have been through so much in these past years, to see them smile because of the hard work and kindness of others makes my heart smile. Thank you all so much for everything you put in for this deserving family. The rooms look amazing, the boys love it, and I know the parents are more than grateful. I know I'm grateful to see their smiles every time I come over, knowing that their rooms were made out of love, care and support!
Posted by: Kaulah Fielder-Bey | 11/30/2015 at 03:00 PM
Incredible what you do for others! The look on their faces was priceless! Thank you!
Posted by: Heather | 11/30/2015 at 03:04 PM
Those are amazing rooms for amazing guys. How wonderful to have wonderful people who make dreams come true.
Posted by: Anna Randolph | 11/30/2015 at 03:27 PM
A wonderful blessing for an truly amazing family!
Posted by: Ramona | 11/30/2015 at 04:45 PM
Thank-you Kaulah. That is exactly what it is about -- process. Expressing dreams, imagining, painting away the bad stuff, creating colors that renew, images the say" I am strong, I never give up...like a Ninja Turtle!" A room becomes then a school for life...a life lived with creativity and courage.
We appreciate your kind comments.
Posted by: Kelee Katillac | 11/30/2015 at 06:41 PM
This is an incredible service for the family. Thank you for sharing your time and talents to bring joy to those in need!
Posted by: Staci Mathes | 11/30/2015 at 07:58 PM
Thank you for supporting a beautiful family with a heart of gold. Ms. Nakia gives back to her community in tremendous ways and it is so heart warming to see her family lifted up in this way. You're an inspiration, Elijah!
Posted by: Kyla Pitts-Zevin | 11/30/2015 at 08:17 PM
These rooms are just beautiful. How wonderful to design a space around the boys' interests and focus on what they each created!
Posted by: Mary Rigan | 11/30/2015 at 09:34 PM
What an amazing story. A family filled with such strength and resilience.
Posted by: Sarah | 11/30/2015 at 10:42 PM
I am so grateful that we could assist with this project and are honored to be able to host the Daniel family at Residence Inn during the time when their home was transformed. We would like to invite you back as our guests for a weekend of your choice now that Elijah is out of the hospital. It was supposed to be a fun time for him too. We prayed for him and continue to pray for blessings for him, this family and for Design Gives Back. The rooms are amazing!!!
Posted by: Paige Southard | 12/01/2015 at 09:18 AM
Such an amazing and beautiful story. I love that I'm reading this on Giving Back Tuesday :)
Posted by: Lauren | 12/01/2015 at 09:46 AM
Amazing!!
Posted by: Jeff Miles | 12/01/2015 at 09:59 AM
A great inspirational story! Prayers to Elijah for continued strength and a full recovery!
Nice job Residence Inn Union Hill Team! Thanks for sponsoring this great space for Elijah!
Posted by: Dan Gudenkauf | 12/01/2015 at 10:02 AM
What an amazing story and project! I'm honored and humbled to have been a part of making a dream come true. Thank you for letting us be a part!
Posted by: Jeff Groves | 12/01/2015 at 11:49 AM
What a wonderful story!! I hope the space becomes a healing space for the family!
Posted by: Kim Perez | 12/01/2015 at 12:07 PM
This experience has been AMAZING and it has changed our lives!!!! Elijah loves his room and does everything in there. He only comes out when he has to and his health is continually improving! Isaiah loves his room, as well, and enjoys spending time in his newly designed and defined space. Both boys could not be happier!!!!
Posted by: Nakia | 12/01/2015 at 12:48 PM
This is the most wonderful video. I never thought of design as being so important to health. But, I can see that it is! Best wishes to the whole family.
Posted by: Deirdre W. | 12/01/2015 at 01:05 PM
Praying for the family and continued healing for Elijah. Also, hoping blessings for all the great people who helped make this happen for the family! Great job everyone!
Posted by: Sheree Thomas | 12/01/2015 at 01:09 PM
Thank you for sharing your family's story! Beautiful family
Posted by: Joyce mendoza | 12/01/2015 at 01:18 PM
Once again, I am reminded of the many, many generous, caring people in this world who reach out to help others in need. I work with Nakia, and her faith and strength are so strong--so it is wonderful seeing her family--and especially Elijah--so happy!
Posted by: Sandy Palmer | 12/01/2015 at 07:34 PM
The video is filled with joy and helping others. The rooms are vibrant and beautiful....rooms for change in the lives of these deserving boys. It is an emotional and physical journey to wellness.
Posted by: S.O.Heiffus | 12/01/2015 at 07:37 PM
I love this video and the family so much. Words can't express how i feel about them. The Daniel family deserve all that they are receiving. Our prayers to Elijah & Isaiah to stay strong and keep fighting this battle
Posted by: Angela Reliford Johnson | 12/01/2015 at 07:46 PM
Such a beautiful experience for the amazing Daniel family! This video captured the grace, strength, and bonds within their family. Thank you for bringing joy through such fun and personalized designs. Just Awesome
Posted by: [email protected] | 12/01/2015 at 08:54 PM
Elijah you are truly a Super Hero!! What a wonderful example and inspiration for us all. Your family is incredible and the selflessness is inspiring. May we all pray for this young man and his family and be thankful for all the blessings we each have been given.
And a special tribute to Miracle Makeover for their program and all the countless hours committed to help people.
Thank you Kelee Katillac!!
Posted by: A. F. | 12/01/2015 at 09:19 PM
I am truly humbled and honored to have been a part of this process as the video director and editor. It is by far one of the most meaningful pieces I have ever created. Having an 8 year old by myself, I am reminded every day how life is a blessing and to cherish every moment. Thanks again to the DGB Team for letting me be a part of this!
Posted by: DL Gleason | 12/02/2015 at 03:29 AM
Thank-you Andy Fox and D.L. Gleason.
D.L., your poetic vision made the video an out picturing of the beauty of transformation in life; you showed us how negatives become positive and barrenness is flush with colors and new bloom.
Andy, and all of the team at Brainstorm and Bennett Packaging, you helped to create the "story" inside the room....the wonderful Pizza Shop and Car Wash graphics and other images remind Elijah everyday that what you imagine can become real and physical in your life! Indeed through creativity we have personal power..... and sometimes with the help of other kind souls.
Posted by: Kelee Katillac | 12/02/2015 at 05:47 AM
What an amazing family! So glad you got to shine some light in their world.
Posted by: Submitted by Ashley | 12/02/2015 at 05:56 AM
What an awesome room ! Must say I'm a ninja turtles and LeBron James fan myself... hope you and your family enjoy it as much as I enjoyed helping it all come together !
Posted by: Matthew Groves | 12/02/2015 at 07:18 AM
What a blessing for a family that has been through so much!
Posted by: Cheryl | 12/02/2015 at 09:57 AM
So insipring and awesome! Thank you for what you do and for sharing.
Posted by: Shary | 12/02/2015 at 05:49 PM
8 year old *boy myself not by myself. I have a lovely wife to share my two children with :)
Posted by: DL Gleason | 12/03/2015 at 12:00 AM
Beautiful story!
Posted by: Jacie Anello | 12/03/2015 at 09:58 AM
Nakia is a friend and coworker, and her family is sooooo deserving of some goodness and love. What an uplifting, caring thing to do to inspire both boys, and the whole family. Love this family, and YOU Nakia!
Posted by: Jill Reaka | 12/03/2015 at 10:43 AM
Just very touching... Overwhelmingly heart-warming... Amazing Grace by all for all... God's heart in service for others... Great job... Great work.
Posted by: Pat Dolan | 12/03/2015 at 12:40 PM
Great story and I would like to see more like it!
Posted by: Chux | 12/03/2015 at 02:40 PM
This process has been life altering in the most positive way. For years, I wondered if we would ever or even have the courage to change Essence's room. As a family, in some ways we felt changing her room equated to losing the last bit of memory that she ever existed in our home...no more pink. This process helped come to a better understanding that sometimes the best way honor the memory of someone is by doing what they would want if they were still here. She wants her little brother to have her room. Thanks to everyone....this truly was a labor of love and I reminded that every night put Elijah to bed. As for Elijah (the boy of few words), his room is his haven, get away, a place where truely relax in a place meant just for him. He loves it. I watched the video and cried. Our story was masterfully told.
Posted by: jesse daniel | 12/03/2015 at 11:49 PM
A really meaningful project. The video is so good! Thank-you for giving back to the world.
Posted by: Submitted by Michael | 12/04/2015 at 08:01 AM
Jesse, (father of Elijah and Isaiah) thank-you for your kind, rich comment. This is the meaning of everything we do at Design Gives Back. There is no greater outcome than all you have said....thank-you, thank-you, thank-you.
xo Kelee
Posted by: Kelee Katillac | 12/04/2015 at 09:31 AM
So touching! The NAIA is meeting with Be The Match on Saturday and will be sharing this story with them!
Posted by: Kristin | 12/04/2015 at 02:42 PM
Wow! This was an amazing story about a family who has been through a lot but has not gave up. I'm trying to hold back my tears as I write this comment. Nakia I think you are an amazing woman. I remember when you were pregnant with Elijah when we were in grad school. He is such a strong fellow. God has a plan for your family. Just keep Him first and you all will overcome any trials. May God bring you all peace and joy for the rest of your days.
Posted by: Myisha Watson | 12/06/2015 at 07:38 AM
That is such a blessing for such a deserving and strong boy. Elijah and family are in my prayers. I was truly touched by the video.
Posted by: Deshonna Carter | 12/06/2015 at 04:26 PM
Thank you for sharing your journey, I'm inspired by the strength of not only Elijah but by the entire family. You're in my prayers for sure. This is welcomed news especially during this time of the year. Keep strong and prayerful.
Posted by: Tyrone | 12/07/2015 at 12:02 PM
So Awesome!! Thank you for giving back to this amazing family! The video is so inspiring too!
Posted by: Lara Neenan | 12/07/2015 at 08:18 PM
OMG Nakia, this was as you said "amazing", I really appreciate you allowing us to share in this tremendous journey with you all.. GOD is "soo" good. I want you to know that you all are constantly in our prayers because as hard as it is for little Elijah to go through this, it has to be TRIPLE the pain for you and Jesse... We thank God also for foundations like, "Design Gives Back", because I had never heard of them until now but I am definitely passing this on, they did an excellent job with the makeovers, so much so that I wanted to move in myself (smile)...You are a strong woman Nakia but it's nothing but God's loving arms holding you up, so you hold tight to your faith in HIM and HE'LL see you through it all cause He said in His word "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5)..........We love you all and have a very blessed day!!!!!
Posted by: Tina | 12/09/2015 at 01:12 PM
Dear Nakia,
Thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful and transformative moment for your family. Your boys are so handsome and have grown so much!! Looking back when we met, I knew little about the historical and medical difficulties your family faced, however, it was clear how important Essence was in your world. You have done a beautiful job honoring her in your work and life.
I know you are a private person, so thank you so much for sharing this video, it is remarkable what you have moved through with your children and the strength you have continued to tap into. I admire your commitment to your family and the good things ahead.
And many congratulations to your professional success and certifications! So glad to know you are serving kids and families in need.
Posted by: Brijin | 12/09/2015 at 01:17 PM
Truly an amazing story! We will continue to pray for you and your family! God bless!
Posted by: Tiffaney | 12/09/2015 at 01:19 PM
Oh my goodness.. This was incredible and I'm glad I waited until I got home to watch! What a special thing for Elijah and Isaiah and all of you. Thank you for sharing it with me. I'm so happy to be working with Elijah and to get to know your family... You all are amazing!
Posted by: Mary | 12/09/2015 at 01:21 PM
Thank you so much for sharing that video with me it really shows how great people are.
Posted by: Christine | 12/09/2015 at 01:24 PM
Great video and great story! Thank you for sharing!
Posted by: Thomas | 12/09/2015 at 01:27 PM
Thank you for sharing this Nakia!! My heart is full of hope! You are an amazing person and you have a GREAT family!!!
I should have waited to watch but it is a feel good kinda cry!!
Posted by: Sarah | 12/09/2015 at 01:28 PM
Yep - waterworks city over here!! That was beautiful. I'm seeing a healthy improvement in Elijah, maturation in Isaiah, and beautiful memories of Essence. Thank you for sharing this, and may God continue to bless your family!!
Posted by: Patricia | 12/09/2015 at 01:30 PM
Oh my. What a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing it. The Daniel's story has always touched my heart and I loved seeing Isaiah. Thank you for sharing.
Posted by: Ann | 12/09/2015 at 01:34 PM
That is really cool - thank you so much for sharing! :)
Posted by: Sarah | 12/09/2015 at 01:36 PM
This is a lovely story. Thank you for sharing it with me. Your family will all way be in my prayers.
Posted by: Laquita Heny | 12/09/2015 at 10:19 PM
A deeply heartfelt project! Wonderful video.
Posted by: Submitted by Rick | 12/11/2015 at 08:09 PM
This is great! Good job to the entire team!
Posted by: Ashley | 12/14/2015 at 11:30 AM
I had no idea that this program existed until I met Elijah and Isaiah's Mother, Nakia. She warned me to have tissue handy when I watched the video, she was right, I cried because I did not know there were Angels like this team of designers, construction staff and all who joined together to provide support for the Daniel family. What a blessing you all are. You helped Elijah and Isaiah and their family move forward and you helped with their grief and loss. I will certainly spread the word about this program.
Posted by: Griselda Williams | 12/14/2015 at 12:55 PM
We live in Atlanta, Ga. and felt so blessed to be included in this
Amazing Ministry. May God continue to richly bless Design gives
back, The Daniel family and every Angel that made this happen.
The December article in Kansas City Spaces magazine is phenomenal.
The Motley-Rayner family. (Brandi, Tiyan, Jordan, Lauryn)
Posted by: Brandi Motley-Rayner | 12/14/2015 at 02:46 PM
I read Kelee's Kids Sacred Places book and it made such a difference in the way I view creativity. It can heal you! This video shows the power of creativity to heal Elijah and Isaiah. Beautiful.
Posted by: Submitted by R.D.N.Y. via email | 12/14/2015 at 02:47 PM
Really truly wonderful!
Posted by: Kimber Ito | 12/18/2015 at 03:24 PM
Tears of joy! What a blessing for your boys.
Posted by: Angela | 12/20/2015 at 04:29 PM
Amazing! This is a very special family that totally deserves this! Good work!
Posted by: Aimee Deschaine | 12/21/2015 at 10:24 AM
Such a touching story!
Posted by: Laura | 12/21/2015 at 09:14 PM
What a blessing to be able to use your talents in such a wonderful way. To give such a lift to these boys spirits is an insiration to all designers. May God Bless your efforts.
Posted by: Amal | 12/24/2015 at 12:03 PM
Thank-you to Mickey Coulter and Better Homes & Gardens Realty for supporting this makeover and Design Gives Back.
Posted by: Kelee Katillac | 01/16/2016 at 09:53 AM
I love when people use their talents to bless others!
Posted by: Sheree Collier | 02/15/2016 at 12:31 PM
This was a beautiful inspiring video, God Bless you all.
Posted by: Syreeta | 02/15/2016 at 01:58 PM
Simply Beautiful.
Posted by: Myisha | 02/15/2016 at 06:21 PM
Amazing video and great story!!
Posted by: Roxanne Moore | 02/15/2016 at 11:14 PM
This is remarkable
Posted by: Kynnedy Johnson | 02/15/2016 at 11:23 PM
This is such a kind and hopeful video project. Your work is amazing and that family is forever changed by it. Thank-you for putting light back into the world. Creativity is the means of changing negatives to positives and this makeover perfectly reflects that transformation.
(submitted by email and team posted)
Posted by: CreativeThought.com | 02/23/2016 at 10:18 AM