Cancer sufferer checks off bucket list item, thanks to Joey Logano

Hunt, who is battling stage IV osteosarcoma, attended Saturday’s Quaker State 400 as Joey Logano’s guest.

The 22-year-old from Whitehouse, Ohio was also able to express her gratitude to Logano for fulfilling an earlier item on her bucket list — a trip to New York City last month.

“It was a lot of fun,” Hunt told Motorsport.com. “We had a private tour. We went to Central Park a couple of times. We went to the Jimmy Fallon TonightShow. We went to see Wicked. 

“Joey flew us out on a private jet. It was just an awesome time. I don’t think there could be another trip like it.”

Hunt was originally diagnosed with the rare bone cancer at 19. That’s when her bucket list began. After extensive chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, Hunt was told she was in remission. However, the cancer returned last October. 

Earlier this year, Hunt and her family were informed that the cancer had spread. A tumor discovered in Hunt’s lung was determined to be inoperable. Still, Hunt continues to fight.

“The trips and stuff like this have been big boosters for my positivity,” Hunt said. “It’s given me something to look forward to. But honestly, the people that support me, my family, my friends and my faith is what has kept me going through all of this.” 

Hunt’s bucket list was brought to Logano’s attention via his assistant Katharine Dukes, who attended school with Jodi Rupp, Ashleigh’s mother.

“It’s cool she’s taking the opportunity to go and live life and not be down about it,” Logano said in an interview last month. "Obviously, it’s probably hard not to get down about it — and I’m sure she is — but it’s the least we can do is try to help out a little bit and give her a really cool experience.”

While the former high school basketball player is more of a spectator these days, Hunt continues to be a sports fan. Although Hunt attends Ohio State University, she proudly sported an Alabama Crimson Tide lanyard holding her NASCAR credentials on Saturday. Hunt’s father lives in Alabama.

“I have two college teams that I root for,” Hunt said with a smile. “I’m a Buckeye, but I’m a big Alabama fan. Two years ago when they were pitted against each other in the playoffs, I was just happy. I cheered for both of them.” 

A weekend to remember

On Saturday, Hunt was all in for Logano. She brought him a hat as a thank you gift. Hunt attended the drivers’ meeting prior to the race, where she met Dale Earnhardt Jr. and briefly discussed her experience at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital. (Earnhardt visited the facility on Thursday, prior to practice). 

“He does a lot for my hospital,” Hunt said. 

Hunt then watched the race from atop the No. 22 Team Penske pitbox. While she enjoyed the high energy surrounding the event, it was a rough outing for Logano. His evening lasted just 52 laps. Despite the driver’s misfortune, it didn’t cloud Hunt’s view of Logano. 

“Joey pulled out all the stops for us,” Hunt said. “He’s an amazing person. His wife is wonderful as well. I can’t thank them enough.” 

On Tuesday, Hunt tackles the next item on her bucket list — a family trip to Hawaii. 

“We’re going to Oahu for three days and then Maui for seven,” Hunt said. “It’s going to be fun. We’ll do the touristy stuff in Oahu. Maui will be more relaxing.”