Meet AJ

AJ Knox Jr., an 18-year-old from Charlotte, NC was living a childhood similar to most kids his age. He loved playing sports, especially football, listening to music and playing Xbox. Then, AJ was involved in a tragic accident that turned his life upside down. AJ survived a car accident, which left him paralyzed, but ended fatally for his father. Losing his father was devastating and now the loss of the use of his legs has left him dependent upon a wheelchair. Although this situation has forever altered AJ’s life, his family is thankful he is still able to breathe on his own and has the use of his upper body.

In fact, AJ will be the first to tell you that he has much for which he is grateful. Before the accident, AJ loved being on a football field. Unfortunately, AJ’s legs will not carry him down the field again, but he will always be a fan of the game. AJ’s sports hero, running back Derrick Henry, is oozing with athletic ability and has made a huge impression on this Charlotte, NC teen. AJ admires Henry’s endless determination to be his best and his attitude has given AJ the encouragement to face his medical battles with positivity. We hope to show AJ that he doesn’t have to fight alone and  hat his biggest dreams are still possible!

AJ's Dream

AJ’s Dream was to meet Derrick Henry, and thanks to amazing people like you who support DO3, he got to do just that and then some.

On AJ’s first flight ever, he flew first class and had the most welcoming flight crew. Upon arrival at The Westin Nashville, we were greeted with nothing but love as well as lots of Titans swag!

AJ’s incredible day with the Tennessee Titans included lunch with the players, a private tour of the training facility, a full locker room tour, and his own locker with Titans swag including a personalized Titans jersey. AJ was able to spend time with Ryan Tannehill, head coach Mike Vrabel, NFL Network commentators, and of course his idol, Derrick Henry.

Special thanks to Coach Vrabel who invited AJ out to the field at the end of practice to lead the team out with an all-hands-in cheer. After practice, Derrick Henry spent time with AJ and his mom chatting about life and signing autographs.

AJ’s day ended with dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe Nashville and time at the Grand Ole Opry.

Special thanks to the Tennessee Titans, Derrick Henry, Jeremy Schutte, the Westin Nashville (especially Zachary), Oak Steakhouse Nashville, Hard Rock Café Nashville, Mike Vrabel, Grand Ole Opry, and Ryan Tannehill along with Dream sponsors the CLT Foundation and the Beers and Burpees Charity Event.

Lastly, special thanks to our photographer, Liz Wylie Photography as well as the Tennessee Titans photography team.

Dream Snapshots

Dream Reels