DENVER -- The Keil family has had their share of bad news this year.

During Staff Sgt. Matthew Keil's second deployment to Iraq he was shot by a sniper. The injury left him paralyzed from the neck down. Keil has been to Washington D.C's Walter Reed Hospital, the Tampa VA and Craig Hospital for treatment.

"It's been a crazy year that's for sure. Being injured in February, coming home and just doing all my rehab from February to September," said Keil.

Keil left Craig Hospital just a month ago. He's been at home waiting for better news about his condition.

In the meantime, Keil received a call that wouldn't improve his condition but would most certainly improve his spirits. The person on the other line gave Keil the ultimate opportunity: throwing out the first pitch at Saturday's World Series Game 3 against the Boston Red Sox.

"(My wife) started jumping up and down on the bed," said Keil.

Keil was quick to point out the honor is typically reserved for celebrities and presidents.

"I mean I am up there with the president of the United States, you know? He throws first pitches and now I get to too. That's crazy," said Keil.

His wife, Tracy, agreed.

"I just thought it was the coolest thing. I just couldn't believe it. Nobody gets to do this. I certainly couldn't believe it was Matt," said Tracy Keil.

Keil said he's tried to picture what it will be like but can't possibly imagine it. He said it's an honor,however, to be out on the field representing the United States of America, the Army, and everyone overseas.

The first pitch will be thrown at 6:22 Saturday p.m. The Rockies tell 7NEWS Keil will get to take home the ball.