California High School grad to get wish from Tebow Foundation

Now playing football at Truman State, Barr will meet the Eagles quarterback

In this Nov. 20, 2014 file photo, Jaden Barr, then a high school senior, signs a football for one of his fans during a California Pintos' meet-and-greet with community members.
In this Nov. 20, 2014 file photo, Jaden Barr, then a high school senior, signs a football for one of his fans during a California Pintos' meet-and-greet with community members.

During his athletic career at California High School, Jaden Barr gained the nickname "little Tebow."

Barr, a freshman at Truman State University, Kirksville, shares traits with NFL player Tim Tebow, including a strong work ethic and a valued faith.

Later this year, Truman State quarterback Barr also will share a day with the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback.

Meeting Tebow was a long-time hope for Barr, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes after his freshman year in high school, said his mother Dana Barr.

A California resident, knowing Barr's admiration for Tebow, looked into the Make-A-Wish Foundation. When it was discovered Barr was too old for that organization's work, the friend then collected information about the Dream Factory foundation.

Barr met with the Dream Factory representatives, who then got him in touch with the Tim Tebow Foundation, Dana said.

Throughout the summer, the Barrs have been working with the athletes' organization.

Then, Tebow became busy after signing to play with Philadelphia. Barr, a Missouri Bright Flight recipient, was gearing up for academics and athletics in his first college semester.

The planned meeting is official, being promoted on the foundation's social media. But with busy schedules, it may be closer to Christmas.

The Tim Tebow Foundation outreach program, W15H, fulfills dreams of children with life-threatening illness who wish to meet the professional football player. The foundation has provided more than 50 children with travel, accommodations, dining reservations, gifts and customized activities in addition to one-on-one time with Tebow.

A humble sort, Barr felt because his illness is manageable, others were in more dire straights.

Likewise, his wish was not extravagant, his mother said.

He simply wants to work out with Tebow and learn about his exercise and diet regiment, Dana said.

Recently, Barr's story was posted on W15H media to encourage donations to support the program.

"I think he's excited to use this platform to promote awareness of diabetes," Dana said.

Barr also has been invited to work with the Global Ambassador for Team Type 1 Foundation Outreach Program to further awareness of the disease, especially in developing countries.

"Jaden, who has Type 1 Diabetes, has lived a life devoted to glorifying God," the Tebow foundation posted recently. "Since his diagnosis, Jaden has strived to inspire others to pursue their dreams no matter their circumstances."