UNION COUNTY, N.C. -- A community got together at Hemby Bridge Elementary School to hold a send-off party for a local boy who is battling a life-threatening illness.
Seven-year-old Jonathan Page packed his bags for Tuesday's flight, as he and his family are scheduled to meet NBA star and Charlotte's own Stephen Curry.
Jonathan's friends, classmates, family members and even local firefighters and sheriff's deputies came out to cheer on the boy who is off to meet his hero in San Francisco.
"It's kind of overwhelming," said Loree, Jonathan's mother.
Like her son, Loree is taking it all in.
"I think we're ready," she said. "Anxiety, of course, has taken over but I think we're ready."
When Jonathan was just 2 years old, doctors diagnosed him with Methylmalonic Acidemia (MMA), a rare disease that affects only one in 150,000 kids. A Jonathan got older, the condition forced him to lose most of his motor skills and dependent on a wheelchair.
The loss of motor has not limited Jonathan's love for basketball. He not only loves watching the sport on TV, he competes locally for the Rolling Hornets.
Loree calls his son the "little boy of hope."
"He's amazing," she said.
Dr. Dwight Bailey of Levine Children's Hospital said Jonathan's family is an inspiration to the community.
"They're an incredible family," Dr. Bailey said. "They are absolutely loving and giving."
"They think of everyone around them first and foremost," he added.
A local community, led by Dream on 3, came together to help Jonathan and his family meet Curry. Mike Dascal, the founder of Beers & Burpees charity event, said the former Davidson Wildcat is known for being great with the kids.
"He spends a lot of time with the kids," Dascal said. "He really takes the time to meet them and to learn about them. It's a great moment for the kids and I think Steph enjoys it as well."
"It's going to be awesome," Loree said.
Those interested in supporting Dream on 3 can click here for more information.