“It Was Her Dream”: Teen Keeps Childhood Promise and Takes Grandma to Prom

May 7, 2026

For 14 years, a Wisconsin teenager kept a promise that began when he was just a toddler: one day, he would take his grandmother to prom.

And this spring, he finally made it happen in a moment his family says they will never forget.

Avant (left) with Svala / Source: WXOW, TOM HELLER, CNN

While most high school juniors arrive at prom with classmates or girlfriends, 17 year old Avant Williams walked into prom at La Crosse Central High School with someone who had dreamed of this night for decades — his grandmother, Svala Heller.

Heller grew up in Iceland, where prom traditions are not as common as they are in the United States. But after years of watching American movies and television shows filled with glamorous prom scenes, she always wondered what it would be like to experience one herself.

“I’ve always wanted to go to a prom,” Heller said. “Watching American TV and all that glamour that goes with it.”

Apparently, little Avant took that dream very seriously.

“Since I was like a little kid, my grandma’s been telling me she wanted to go to prom,” Williams said. “It’s her dream, and today I just feel like I should make that come true.”

And he did not treat it like a small gesture. Before the dance, Williams and Heller posed for photos alongside his friends, turning the night into a full prom experience complete with laughter, memories, and plenty of smiles.

Heller said every second of the evening felt special.

“We have such a special bond,” she said. “I’m just taking every inch in and just enjoying every moment.”

The night even included an unexpected bonus escort. Williams’ best friend, Ruben Smith, proudly joined the fun as Heller’s second prom date.

“No one gets to take their best friend’s grandma to prom,” Smith joked. “It’s special.”

For Williams, making good on a promise he made as a toddler meant everything.

“I’ve only been looking up to this moment since I was like 2 years old,” he said. “I love my grandma. She’s been there for me my whole life. I’m just happy I can make her dream come true.”