Joey Paulin just turned four years old on April 12th:

His family says the Alabaster Fire Department played a big part in reaching that milestone.

"He's kind of like our little buddy," said Fire Dept. Lt. Ched Burton.

"We think a lot of them, they're like family to us and have been since our very first 9-1-1 call on June 12th of 2004," said Joey’s mother, Roseanna Paulin.

Joey has a rare condition called Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy that prevents him from developing muscle tone, walking, standing, sitting or talking.

"He's never spoken one word and yet he's touched so many lives, he's a special little boy," his mother continued.

Despite being on seven different medications, Joey's seizures are his biggest challenge; in fact, they are life threatening.

But the Alabaster Fire Department can make it to his house in just three minutes.

"And of course, the power of prayer is pretty amazing, because there's been two or three occasions where we didn't think he'd come home from the hospital," Roseanna Paulin said.

When the fire department called the Paulins, it was a big surprise: Joey Paulin will become Alabama's youngest honorary firefighter, and his birthday will be forever recognized by the City of Alabaster.

"I just can't think of a greater honor, we're so touched and this whole community has just been just wonderful with their love and support," Paulin said.

"We believe that our position brings strength, honor and character, and we feel like joey meets all the characteristics and traits we hope our profession upholds," said Lt. Burton.

The official celebration recognizing April 12, as Joey Paulin day in Alabaster will be Monday night at 6:30 at the municipal annex building.