September 8, 2016 (Fonda, NY) – This Friday night the Northeast Crate Nationals hits the clay running at the great race place, as part of the KOD Sportsman tour. It’s EMT, EMS, Fire Services night, along with bringing awareness to Suicide Prevention and Stop Bullying. On hand will be a number of competitors, fans, crew, and officials. Albany-Saratoga and King Of Dirt Racing will honor a special young lady for an evening named Kaitlin Bowman who through spirit and courage is fighting to resist a fatal disease that effects less than 500 children worldwide.

Young Kaitlin was diagnosed with Late Infantile NCL also known as Batten Disease. Batten Disease is a fatal neuro-degenerative disorder that begins at childhood and can take up to two years for detection. A seemingly normal child can be subject to seizures, visual impairment, blindness, behavioral changes, dementia, and loss of motor skills such as the ability to walk, talk, or communicate at all.

“I’ve known Kaitlin for many years now. It’s heart wrenching to see a child go through what she’s had to endure since being diagnosed. It truly tears you up inside,” said Dean Seelow, owner of Dean’s Electrical Services.

Kaitlin’s family feeds off her unbelievable strength in facing Batten Disease head on, which is by no means an easy task. Kaitilin and her family will be honored guests of the King Of Dirt Racing Series and Albany-Speedway September 9th for the Northeast Crate Nationals, which it is planned to have Kaitlin visiting the winner in victory lane.

“I’m a big fan of doing things to support our troops both past and present. I also support our local fire, police, and EMT’s. These are all things most people take for granted and so are things like the ability to walk, talk, and live a long and healthy life. That’s something this young lady is fighting against. So when Dean brought it to my attention last year I took the time to learn about someone he cares about, her struggle, and welcomed the idea of honoring her spirit and fight. This young lady has tremendous courage at her age,” said Rob Hazer, KOD promoter.

Albany-Saratoga Speedway promoter Lyle DeVore said, “Absolutely love to have her. Anything for the kids, especially those fighting for their future.”

Young Miss. Bowman and her family will be guests at the great race place this Friday night in the turn four VIP tower. They’ll be treated to an entertaining evening of racing including the KOD Sportsman, Tom Clothier Trucking Small Block Modifieds, CRSA 305 Sprints, and Meltz Lumber Street Stocks.

Visit www.cometogetherforkaitlin.com for more info on Kaitlin, her journey, and ways to donate and help. There is also a section dedicated to Kaitlin’s Korner, which is an approved expansion to the town of Wilton Park & Recreation area with adaptive play structures and activities for children of all abilities.