Jeff Burton will have some “miraculous” assistance this weekend when he competes at Talladega Superspeedway in his #99 Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center Ford. Mason Lindley, a five-year-old from Burlington, NC, who has battled against all odds in clinging to life, will be in Burton’s pit during the race. Mason’s amazing story is one that shows the face of courage and the truest champion. Burton, who, along with his wife Kim, has been a long-time supporter of Duke Children’s Hospital and is eager to get the message out to people about Mason and Duke Children’s. “Mason is simply incredible,” said Burton,” a 17-time NASCAR Nextel Cup Series winner. “Once fans learn of his battle for life, it will touch each and everyone of them. It is one of many heart-felt stories that need to be told. Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center is truly remarkable. Our hope is that we can help raise awareness and funding for this worthwhile cause.” Burton’s association with Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center began years ago after an associate sponsor invited him to visit kids admitted to the hospital. Since that time, Burton has continued his support through fundraising events, appearances, monetary donations, time and of course most importantly, visits to the hospital with Kim who has sat on the hospital board for the last four years. Through their efforts the Burtons have raised nearly $900,000 for the hospital to date. Duke Children’s is dedicated to providing the most advanced medical care, innovation in basic and applied “bench to bedside” research, leadership in the education of future health care professionals, and advocacy for children’s health. “Care. Advocacy. Research. Education. At Duke Children’s, we’re improving the health of children.” For more information visit www.dukechildrens.org or call 1-800-DUKEKIDS.(Pro Sports Management & Marketing PR)(4-22-2004)
