Arctic Research & Rescue

Why did I build it? My inspiration for this set is very personal. A few years back, my best friend was diagnosed with cancer and needed to spend 6 months in the hospital. All he wanted to do to pass the time was build LEGO kits, so I tracked down every one I could find. He was cured, in part I believe, from the positive distraction of LEGO, but also in large part due to exhaustive research into cures and the dedication of the entire hospital staff! I decided to change careers and get into supporting research for cures at the very same hospital. I was inspired by my late-in-life introduction to LEGO and created this project to submit in October 2023. I wanted to highlight the nature of how research is always on the move, coming up with creative new approaches, working together as a family, and rescuing those finding themselves in need of help. However, shortly after submitting my project to LEGO Ideas in October 2023, I myself was diagnosed with cancer and was unable to promote my Arctic Research and Rescue vehicle. I am happy to report my best friend and I are now both in remission, and I am looking forward to my renewed LEGO Ideas journey. Please support my project and share with others when possible, and if not, maybe consider supporting research into cures.

What is it? This set features an amazing solar-powered arctic vehicle with working tracks, and it's also a cozy home and workspace for a team of adventurous characters. There are about 1,000 pieces, including some cool Technic parts and lots of regular bricks. It's not just for looking at—you can play with it too! The characters can go on all sorts of exciting adventures in their special vehicle. Captain J.J. drives the vehicle and loves fixing things. Dr. Tash is a scientist, and her dog Gretchy helps her with research and rescue missions. Aunt Edna, the expedition sponsor, is also a pro photographer. Talan is a funny writer who loves pizza, and C.R. Ash is a base-jumping snowboarder who sometimes needs to be rescued. Will he join the team permanently? There are so many adventures waiting to happen!

Why I believe this would make a great LEGO set: I think this would be a great LEGO set because it has wide appeal. It’s a fun build without being too complicated, and for display, it doesn’t take up a lot of space. It features a fully usable interior space, which is not common in many vehicles, but in a way, it also functions much like a building. The diversity of the characters, their stories, and many accessories make for lots of play options. Some sets look great but are really only for display. I wanted to create something that's not only awesome to build but also great for playing. It should be fun, interesting, and actually work when you're done building. It’s a set that’s fun for all ages, and hopefully, it helps us learn something along the way. My hope is that, together, we can inspire a better future for everyone.

Thank you,

Deverest