An extraordinary young boy from Seymour recently experienced a once in a lifetime trip to meet his racing idol, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., in Atlanta. 13-year-old Justin, who has spina bifida, couldn't believe it when his one wish to meet the NASCAR legend came true. Justin's special trip came courtesy of Kids Wish Network, an organization that grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses.

Justin was born with a neural tube defect known as spina bifida. Spina bifida is a condition in which the spinal column does not close completely before birth. In addition, Justin has hydrocephalus, which results in a build up of excess fluid around the brain. Justin has endured numerous surgeries throughout his young life and is confined to a wheelchair.

Not long ago, Justin's dad, Mike, was referred to Kids Wish Network by a relative. The charity contacted Mike and sent him an application. Before long, the family received the good news: Justin had indeed been approved for a wish. This brave boy knew just what he wanted to do: he wanted to meet his hero, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., in person!

Justin's Kids Wish Network wish coordinator, Madeline, quickly began working hard to make his wish come true. In addition to arranging for airline tickets to Atlanta where there was a race, she also booked hotel accommodations there, secured tickets to the race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway and most importantly, scheduled a special meet and greet with Justin and Dale. Justin was in for a truly amazing dream come true.

The big day arrived early for Justin when he and his family met Madeline in the Doubletree Atlanta Galleria hotel lobby at 7:15 a.m. on the morning of the race. The sleepy gang headed promptly out to the Atlanta Motor Speedway. As the sun rose, so did Justin's anticipation. He couldn't believe he would soon be meeting Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

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