At just 12 years old, Jase Garland suited up and lived out a dream most kids only imagine, becoming a Carolina Panthers quarterback for the day. And thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, that dream came true in the most unforgettable way.
Jase, an Asheville native and die-hard Panthers fan, was diagnosed in January 2024 with a rare blood cancer known as myelodysplastic syndrome. The diagnosis led to a whirlwind of treatments, including a bone marrow transplant in May. “It was a really quick and scary process,” said his mom, Erin Garland. But she added, “He’s looking good right now, so far… I’m impressed. I’m very impressed by him.”
The Panthers came together in true team spirit to give Jase a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and they didn’t hold back. Jase signed a contract with the team, traded fist bumps in the locker room, lifted weights in the team gym, and even spent time with quarterback Bryce Young.
Play of the day💙 #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/BOHTfaUoy6
— ThisK2GotMeStarted (@Ceegocrxzy) August 3, 2025
Then came the big moment: on the field, Jase took a handoff from Young, made a jump-cut to the left, and trotted into the end zone for a picture-perfect touchdown. The entire Panthers squad rushed out to celebrate with him, wrapping up a day full of joy, inspiration, and football magic.
Through it all, Jase showed the same strength and spirit he’s carried since day one of his diagnosis. As his mom put it, “He’s had to be away from everybody for so long… but he’s taking this like a champ.”
For one unforgettable day, Jase wasn’t just a fan, he was a Panther.
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