Young Cancer Survivor’s Art Becomes Paint Scheme for William Byron’s No. 24 Valvoline Chevrolet

When Palmer Goforth was in the hospital undergoing treatment for blood cancer, drawing was his go-to activity. It became an outlet for creativity, hope and resilience. Now a survivor, the Charlotte-area 12-year-old can add race car designer to his resume, Valvoline Global officials announced in a press release.

Through a collaboration between Valvoline Global Operations, Blood Cancer United and Hendrick Motorsports, called Driving for a Dream, Goforth’s artwork has been transformed into a custom paint scheme for William Byron’s No. 24 Valvoline Chevrolet. Byron will drive this special car on Oct. 11 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

“Thousands and thousands and thousands of people are going to see my car on the tracks. It’s going to be awesome,” Goforth said. “I didn’t have cancer for no reason. I had cancer so I could impact others’ lives and then give joy.”

The unveiling of the design comes as September is recognized as both Blood Cancer Awareness Month and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

“This opportunity is something Palmer could have dreamed up—something to do with sports, art and palm trees,” said Brittany Goforth, Palmer’s mother. “Valvoline Global gave us an opportunity like this, and you think, well, it wasn’t for nothing. He’s going to get to share his story and he’s going to change someone’s life. And no, I wouldn’t have chosen this journey, but, man, it’s a really cool place we’ve landed.”

The Driving for a Dream collaboration is raising awareness and funding support for Blood Cancer United’s Dare to Dream Project, a groundbreaking initiative focused on transforming treatment and care for children with blood cancer, the release noted.

The Dare to Dream Project is a $175 million initiative to support innovative research, clinical trials, advocacy efforts and family assistance programs that help improve outcomes for children with blood cancer. Valvoline Global has committed to donating $1 million over five years to the project.

“At Valvoline, our purpose is centered on moving the world forward. Seeing Palmer’s resilience and creativity come to life on the No. 24 car gives that mission a whole new meaning,” said Michael Kirtman, chief brand officer at Valvoline Global. “Partnering with Blood Cancer United and Hendrick Motorsports allows us to take this inspiration off the track and drive real, meaningful support for the Dare to Dream project.”

“We’re thankful to Valvoline Global Operations and Hendrick Motorsports for helping bring greater visibility to the unique needs of children with blood cancer,” said E. Anders Kolb, MD, president and chief executive officer, Blood Cancer United. “That’s why we’re working every day to accelerate research and improve care, helping children gain more time to experience moments that matter—soccer games, NASCAR races, birthdays and graduations.”

Byron hopes the combined effort inspires fans to get involved.

“This is more than just a race car; when I get behind the wheel, it represents Palmer and others’ dreams,” Byron said. “To carry Palmer’s design and help shine a spotlight on the Dare to Dream Project makes this race especially meaningful. I hope fans see the car, learn about the cause and join us in supporting children and families affected by blood cancer.”

Enter the Race Against Blood Cancer

For a limited time, every $5 donation to Blood Cancer United entered through Valvoline’s Driving for a Dream website is a donor’s chance to win a trip for two for a premium race experience in Charlotte for the playoffs, the company said. Fans can also win one of 40-plus additional prizes, including signed William Byron posters, custom T-shirts and a signed piece of an official car. For more information, to donate and enter the sweepstakes, visit DrivingforaDream.com.

See the Custom Car Up Close

Fans can see this one-of-a-kind race car up close at Cars and Coffee, a free event presented by HendrickCars.com, on Sept. 19 from 8-11 a.m.