A teenager in Utah battling bone cancer received a dream car, a Ford Mustang, from his father as a bucket list gift. The teenager, Joseph Tegerdine, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2019 and had the cancer spread to his lungs in 2022. With limited time left due to his condition, Joseph’s father decided to fulfill his dream of owning a Ford Mustang since he wouldn’t have enough time to save up for one on his own. The gesture caught the attention of Ford Motors CEO Jim Farley, who offered both father and son the opportunity to drive a Ford Mustang Dark Horse on the track at the Ford Performance Racing School in North Carolina.
The Tegerdines traveled from Utah to North Carolina to experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of driving a Ford Mustang on the track. Despite Joseph’s increasing hip pain after radiation, he was determined to participate in the driving school and had a surge of energy and excitement for the experience. They were taught how to properly drive the specialty vehicle before getting a chance behind the steering wheel, which Joe Tegerdine described as an adrenaline rush and an incredible experience. Ford Motors even surprised them with custom helmets matching the pattern of their sports car for the driving school experience.
While Joseph Tegerdine just finished radiation on a large tumor in his lungs, he was also dealing with increasing pain in his hip where another large tumor was located. With no more treatment options left for his osteosarcoma, the family is cherishing precious moments like the driving school experience, knowing that they may be limited before Joseph passes. Despite his illness, Joseph is still participating in typical teenage activities like going to prom, where he plans to take photos in front of the Ford Mustang with his girlfriend. His father emphasized the importance of these moments as they navigate through this difficult time.
The CEO of Ford Motors, Jim Farley, expressed that the company was pleased to provide the driving school experience to Joe and Joseph Tegerdine. The Tegerdines were grateful for the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience together, creating lasting memories during a challenging period in their lives. Joseph’s father reflected on the significance of embracing joy and excitement amid uncertainty about the future, emphasizing the need to appreciate each moment spent together as a family. Despite the hardships they are facing, the Tegerdines are determined to make the most of their time together and create meaningful memories.
