MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. - Fifteen-year-old Luca Orrico’s dreams are coming true after the Make-a-wish foundation of Missouri and Kansas granted his wish of a New York Yankees experience and meeting Aaron Judge.

“It's just a pretty special feeling,” Luca said. “I watch the guy every day, so just to be able to meet him is a dream come true.”

To make this dream possible, Kelsey Zwink with the Make-A-Wish Foundation said Luca's wish-granting volunteer shared the idea with the organization.

Luca's parents, Erin and Mike, said it's been a long road for their son after he was diagnosed with an inflammatory disease two years ago.

“Going back to the 12 day stay at Children's Hospital, which nobody ever prepares you to spend 12 days with your son in a hospital like that but the people were amazing,” Mike said.

His family says they appreciate the help and kindness from others.

“I feel like it is really what supported us in so many ways to get through difficult times and they all showed up for Luca on a regular basis,” Erin said.

Luca's parents describe him as a brave, hardworking and kind young man who finds joy on the field, whether playing baseball, basketball or soccer.

“At the start of it, I was really struggling. It was pretty hard and then every day I kept getting better, trusting my doctors; they helped me to just be who I am today,” Luca said.

Luca and his family are set to leave for New York on Aug. 20.