CONCORD, N.C. – Thursday afternoon, Dale Earnhardt Jr., his wife, Amy, and Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick paid a special visit to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.
The visit kicked off with the unveiling of the newly-dedicated Dale and Amy Earnhardt Activity Room. The dedication is a gift from Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Nationwide.
“Having this room named after Amy and me means we will always be personally connected to Nationwide Children’s Hospital,” said Dale Earnhardt Jr. “It’s a fun room. It’s a room of joy and happiness and Amy and I are so thankful to the hospital and Nationwide for giving us this amazing gift.”
Following the ceremony, the Earnhardts enjoyed spending time with patients and their families at the hospital.
Earnhardt has been actively involved with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for many years. Recently, Earnhardt and Chevrolet auctioned a No. 88 Nationwide Chevrolet SS and a 1970 Chevelle co-designed by Earnhardt and Chevrolet. The auction raised $400,000 to benefit the hospital.
Hendrick, a first-time visitor to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, praised Earnhardt’s dedication to service.
“Well, he’s got an unbelievable heart,” Hendrick said. “He has a tremendous commitment to helping others. I’m very proud of him for the man he is and the heart he has and I think you’ll see a lot more of him here and other parts of the country when it comes to helping kids.”
Nationwide chief marketing officer Terrance Williams echoed Hendrick’s sentiments.
“It means a lot to those facing challenges to know that there are people who care and support their recovery,” said Williams. “We all wish Dale Jr. the very best as he enters retirement and are thankful that he and the No. 88 team are so willing to help shine a national spotlight on the hospital and the life-changing work they do.”