LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A local race fan has a special connection to a Formula 1 driver. They both were born with a rare disorder.
Anchor Tricia Kean spoke with a young lady as she showed off some special gear honoring her favorite driver.
AWESOME DRIVER
"It's cool because I have the same thing as a lit, awesome race car driver," said Hailey Dawson of Henderson.
She was born with Poland syndrome. People with the disorder typically have missing or underdeveloped muscles and, in Hailey's case, an underdeveloped hand.
The 13-year-old says kids at school sometimes ask questions.
"I tell them that I was born with it, and I can't change how my hand looks," Dawson said. "Sometimes I get stares, but that's okay."
FERNANDO ALONSO
Aston Martin Formula One Driver Fernando Alonso was also born with it. Hailey's mom says the family instantly connected to Alonso and hopes to meet him.
"She's never met anybody with Poland syndrome that's an adult. She's met some other kids, but nobody as an adult," said Yong Dawson.
So, in tribute to Alonso, the family commissioned UNLV to make this special hand for Hailey. The lead engineer on the project says from design to assembly, the hand took about two weeks to create.
"It's 3D printed, and then for this hand, it's just strung up with a fishing line. So when she bends her wrist, the fingers close down," says Maria Gerardi, lead engineer for Hailey's hand.
ASTON MARTIN
It's complete with the Aston Martin logo and distinct team color.
Hailey says she's excited to support Alonso, who doesn't let his condition stop him from doing incredible things.
"Driving is pretty scary," she said. "It's dangerous."
