Name: Vernon
Age: 15
State: MI
Up until a year and a half ago, Vernon was just like any other 14-year old boy. At that time, he was diagnosed with a progressive brain disease and within six months, was confined to a wheelchair. The illness does not affect mental abilities but causes major problems with balance, coordination and mobility.
Vernon’s only wish was to go to a Nascar race and meet his idol, Dale Earnhardt, Sr., in person.
For his wish, Vernon and his family traveled to San Francisco for a weekend of racing and a meet and greet with #3 himself, Dale Earnhardt, Sr.
Vernon not only got to shake hands with Earnhardt, but received an autographed photo, hat, and had a model car autographed. He even got to go behind the scenes for a first hand look at what racing is all about. The racing icon and the young boy share an interest in fishing and Vernon brought along a personally decorated fishing lure which he presented to Dale.
Meeting Dale Earnhardt was just the start. It was as though the whole city of San Francisco pulled together to make sure that this was a time that Vernon and his family would never forget. The travelers were treated to an in depth tour of Alcatraz and elegant lobster dinners at the Alcatraz Cafe and Neptune’s Palace.
Tags: Dale Earnhardt, Sr., Wish
