CONCORD, N.C. -- One NASCAR fan was treated to a huge surprise when he found himself talking to Jimmie Johnson on live TV.
Michael Palmer, an ER nurse in Michigan who has been on the front lines facing the novel coronavirus pandemic, was on "Lunch Talk Live" on NBCSN with Mike Tirico discussing his efforts.
A longtime Johnson fan, Palmer was shocked when Johnson joined their interview to thank Palmer for his selflessness and hard work.
"Oh my God, are you kidding me right now?" Palmer said in disbelief.
Johnson immediately praised Palmer for the work he is doing in combating the virus. He also expressed he can't fathom how hard it must be for Palmer not to see his son during this time due to the extremely contagious nature of the virus.
"You are such an inspiration to all of us," Johnson said. "I just can't imagine what you and your family are dealing with."
Palmer said he and his son have looked up to Johnson for a long time. He recalled a story from when the pair was at the 2017 Michigan race for Father's Day and his son ran up to Johnson to get a photo and got lost in the crowd. Palmer said Johnson made sure to find the young boy and take a photo with him, an act of kindness that wasn't lost on them.
"You went back and got him and brought him forward and told everyone to step aside," Palmer said. "I definitely teared up a little bit."
Johnson revealed some of his favorite memories were going to the racetrack as a young kid with his father and how he was in awe of the drivers. He keeps that in mind when he sees the young fans who are looking to meet him.
Palmer said he couldn't wait to tell everyone at work that Johnson popped in on his interview and they were able to talk.
"This is just a dream come true. Thank you so much," he said.