Nash was diagnosed with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy, a condition that brings both physical and social challenges. Nash has been in a wheelchair since he was 10 years old, which causes him to navigate life differently than many of his peers. However, he has a great group of classmates and friends that he can count on, which helps him to cope with his diagnosis. Nash shares that there are moments when he prefers not to focus on his diagnosis, and while that can be tough for his parents, it’s also a reminder of his desire to live as fully and independently as possible. 

“It can be frustrating when I have to wait for someone to itch my nose or get a drink, or go somewhere,” says Nash. “My condition impacts my life on an hourly basis, but I feel I have a good attitude which helps me cope.” 

One thing that has offered Nash an escape from his diagnosis is watching the Minnesota Vikings, and particularly Justin Jefferson. He loves watching Justin score touchdowns every Sunday and Nash even brings the Vikings to the Super Bowl every year - in his Madden video game, that is. Choosing to meet Justin Jefferson for his wish was a no brainer for Nash. 

Going into his wish experience, Nash had no idea what to expect. He shares that he expected to do a meet and greet with some Vikings players and attend a practice and a game. However, his expectations were exceeded during his wish day: 

“I was blown away by the generosity and personal touches throughout the wish experience,” exclaimed Nash. “Jets Day was amazing!!!! Going to the practice field and being part of the huddle and run through was amazing. Being on the field being announced was so cool."

Nash thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience, but if he had to pick a favorite moment, it was spending the afternoon with Justin Jefferson. “The fact that the best wide receiver in the country would take time out of his busy life to spend the day with us was remarkable,” shares Nash. “It meant so much to see how he truly cared about us. Everything exceeded my expectations and it made me feel special. I love the Minnesota Vikings and football, so this was a dream come true, I felt like the Vikings included me in their lives too.” 

But the impact of his wish didn’t end on his wish day; people in Nash’s hometown saw him on television and, as Nash stated “it was kind of fun to be famous for a while. It truly helped my mood and my confidence that there are a lot of people who care.” 

After his wish day, Nash was chosen to represent his junior class at homecoming, he was confirmed at church, and he was featured on his school’s website for being the tri-caster to all of his high school football games. Nash also shared that he has not missed watching a single Vikings game since his wish day. 

Nash’s wish had a profound impact on both him and his family. His mom, Lisa, shares: 

“Our favorite part was experiencing it as a family and getting to be surprised and wowed along with Nash was a treat to us too. To be treated as special and make them forget about their issues for just a little while is great. Their mental health improves and the family can enjoy something together without having to adapt the activities. It meant so much to our family that we could forget about things for awhile and just enjoy each other.”