Thanks to Dream On 3, JC Booth Middle student Bowen Harbuck got the experience of a lifetime with an all-expenses-paid trip with his family to the 2025 NFL Draft where he announced a selection by his beloved Atlanta Falcons.
Dream On 3 is a nonprofit that makes sports-themed “dreams” come true for kids and young adults who are living with life-altering conditions. In partnership with Strack, Inc. and the Rosenberg Charitable Foundation, Dream On 3 arranged for Bowen to announce a pick of the Falcons at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
A year ago, Bowen had strep throat that became an infection in his bloodstream. His body went into septic shock, and he eventually had his right arm amputated.
His Dream On 3 bio reads in part: “Despite everything, Bowen is determined to return to his active lifestyle and continue playing the sports he loves. He is working hard to adapt to his new normal, relearning daily tasks and starting the process of getting a prosthetic. His positivity and resilience have been his greatest strengths, inspiring everyone around him as he takes on this journey with courage and determination.”
On the day of the surprise, Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders and mascot Freddie Falcon joined in the fun of the announcement, and star running back Bijan Robinson sent a pre-recorded message.
Robinson offered words of encouragement and praise to Bowen.
“I know some unfortunate stuff happened, but we’re going to bounce back even better than what we were,” said Robinson. “I’m a friend of yours now.”
Bowen received Falcons merchandise, including autographed jerseys, then he was whisked away to the airport in a limo with his family.
Capping off a weekend of fun activities, Harbuck announced the Falcons’ round 7 selection of offensive lineman Jack Nelson live at the draft in front of tens of thousands of football fans.
For more information on Dream On 3, go to dreamon3.org.
Posted 5/6/2025
