Lubbock mom honors son’s memory with ‘A Racecar for Your Pocket’ initiative

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD)- After losing her son Nickolas Wood in a motorcycle accident last year, Stephanie Johnson found a way to honor his memory and help children in hospitals.

Her initiative, A Racecar for Your Pocket, collects new Hot Wheels toys to donate to kids facing tough medical challenges.

Wood, who struggled with severe asthma, spent much of his childhood in hospitals. A small gift from his grandfather, Hot Wheels, provided comfort during difficult times.

"As a mom with a child that was always in the hospital, it was nice when somebody came in with something for him, just to give him a little bit of happiness in those times. Nick spent a lot of time in the hospital, especially around this time of year," she said.

Johnson's goal this holiday season is to donate 600 Hot Wheels to Covenant Children's Hospital. Her initiative has already donated cars to Cook's Children's Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House.

In addition to giving back, Johnson is using A Racecar for Your Pocket to raise awareness for motorcycle safety.

"Spread the word. Spread the awareness for motorcycle riders. Pray for them when you see them on the road, because there's somebody at home waiting to hear that bike pull up in the driveway," Johnson said.

They are accepting donations for this holiday season until Dec. 16. Information on how to donate can be found on the initiative's Facebook page .