EDINBURG, Texas (AP) — The engine of a black 1971 Monte Carlo revved while hydraulics made the classic car jump as 5-year-old Fernando Cruz sat in the driver's seat Tuesday evening.
The McAllen boy diagnosed with leukemia in November couldn't see over the steering wheel, but his joyful shouts were heard from across the parking lot. Several area car clubs — owners of Corvettes, Mustangs and other muscle cars — joined with the Make-A-Wish foundation at the Edinburg Children's Hospital to support Cruz.
Louie Mendez, of Traditionals Car Club, sat with the boy bouncing in the front seat of his car.
"It felt great," he said. "It was awesome. It hit me in the heart to see him so happy there turning the steering wheel. He got excited when I hit the motor."
Cruz lost his eyesight after he underwent an operation recently, making part of his wish to hear one of his favorite things — cars.
