Axton Robertson first fell in love with Tom Brady during the quarterback’s time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Now, after years of admiration, the 12-year-old from Tennessee finally got the chance to meet his hero in person.

On Friday, June 20, during Fanatics Fest in New York City, Axton’s long-awaited wish came true — thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The nonprofit organization grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses.

“I’ve been helping with Make-A-Wish for a while, and it’s always just an amazing experience,” Brady, 47, tells PEOPLE. “There are a lot of people who deal with some difficult situations, so it’s great to hear their stories, wish them words of encouragement and make a fun day out of it.”

He continued, “Fanatics is doing some great things, and bringing so many of these wishes to Fanatics Fest is just special for everybody. Not only do you get to meet us, but I get to be a part of this whole experience — and the whole day is fun for everybody.”

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Tom Brady and Axton Robertson
Axton’s mom, Courtney, spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about her son’s excitement and anticipation. Axton, who’s from Tennessee, is obsessed with football and spends most of his free time outside playing football, basketball, swimming, and more.

“He looks up to him very much,” she said. “We didn’t really know how that was going to take place until just a few weeks ago, and he has been absolutely thrilled, looking forward to this.”

She added, “He was very nervous this morning — the anticipation has been building for a long time. We’ve known about this wish for about a year and a half, so the fact that the day is finally here is both exciting and nerve-racking.”

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Axton Robertson and Tom Brady play catch
For Axton’s family, the moment was especially emotional, knowing everything he’s been through during his cancer journey. He is currently in remission.

“He’s been through a lot,” Courtney shared. “So to see him get to experience something like this — and the generosity that’s being shown — it’s very well deserved, but we’re also very appreciative.”

As for Axton, the day meant everything.

When asked ahead of the big meeting what he planned to say to the NFL legend, he admitted with a smile, he had no idea. But he says that the day is one that he plans to cherish forever.

“He’s just such a good inspiration,” Axton said of Brady.

“I’m going to remember how it’ll be awesome,” he adds.

Read the original article on People