Thirteen-year-old Martin Mendez of Lompoc was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy three years ago.
Saturday the Lompoc Walmart granted his biggest wish through its Have a Heart program.
Martin was an honorary truck driver for the day.
He also received a washer and dryer for his family, a treadmill for his physical therapy and some signed apparel from his favorite Mexican soccer team.
However is favorite gifts were a keyboard and microphone, things he plans to use to inspire others.
Saturday was a big day for the 13 year old.
"It means a lot because they made my wish come true that I wanted a piano, to sing," Mendez said.
The Lompoc Valley Middle Schooler says he will use the gifts to make music for his family and spread his message of hope.
"I wanted to let all the kids know that they should not act different," Mendez said, "they should be the way they are."
Dozens of people from all over Santa Barbara County packed the parking lot to show their support.
There was plenty of singing and even some dancing, courtesy of Martin's classmates.
The turnout was overwhelming for the entire Mendez family, his father's heartfelt thanks brought the teenager to tears.
"He's more caring about his family needs more than himself," said Leona Echeverria, who works at the Lompoc Walmart, "it took me a lot to get what he needs himself."
After a few words from the mayor it was time for a ride around town in the Walmart big rig.
With the help of some Walmart Heart drivers, Martin was seated and ready to go.
A special day for a special teen, a young man who has already touched so many lives.
"I t doesn't matter if you have Muscular Dystrophy," the teenager said, "you can do whatever you want."
The event included a barbeque fundraiser which raised thousands of dollars to help the family with medical bills.
This is not the first time the Walmart Heart program has touched lives on the Central Coast.
Back in January it helped send a 3-year-old Santa Maria girl, and her family, to Disneyland.
MSNBC
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