Boy With SMA Becomes Carolina Panthers’ Coach For a Day

This heartwarming video from Make-A-Wish Central & Western NC is all about eight-year-old Jack Bolton, who was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) at birth. Having SMA doesn’t stop Jack from getting involved in the school football games at recess—the only difference is that instead of playing, he coaches.

Learn more about the faulty gene responsible for SMA

Jack’s parents John and Holly Bolton contacted the Make-A-Wish foundation in 2013, hoping to make Jack’s wish of being the head coach of the Carolina Panthers for a day come true. The NFL team was more than happy to oblige and head coach Ron Rivera took Jack under his wing. Jack got to meet all the players, write a pre-match speech and help Rivera with important coaching matters leading the team to glory.

Here are eight notable people who have spinal muscular atrophy.

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