Blue Jays Fan with Weeks to Live Fulfills Dream Trip to Spring Training
Wes Johnson, a 17-year-old Blue Jays fanatic from St. Thomas, Ontario, is packing his bags for a dream trip to see his beloved team at spring training in Dunedin, Florida. With only weeks to live due to a congenital heart condition, this journey represents a bittersweet farewell, made possible by a GoFundMe campaign that garnered support from Sportsnet broadcaster Jamie Campbell.
A Heartfelt Wish Fulfilled
Wes was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a condition that left the left ventricle of his heart underdeveloped. Despite multiple surgeries, medications, and years on a waiting list for a heart transplant, the emergence of protein-losing enteropathy and failing kidneys has left no further medical options. His mother, Jennah Johnson, emphasizes that the healthcare system did all it could, but a suitable organ donor never became available at the right time.
"We don't have enough donors for the organs that we require," Jennah said, advocating passionately for organ donation. "There just wasn't one of the right size or blood type that came in at the right time for him."
The Journey to Dunedin
The family, including Wes's parents, two brothers, and a friend, will fly into Tampa on March 7 and return on March 14. Wes plans to attend a game on March 10, wearing a Vladimir Guerrero Jr. jersey signed by the slugger during a visit to SickKids Hospital. Jennah describes the trip as a moment of pure joy, noting Wes's resilience and selflessness.
"He has worked so hard, graduated high school early, got his driver's licence, volunteered through SickKids, never complains," she said. "He's the best big brother you could ever imagine."
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
Wes recently held a celebration of life to say goodbye to loved ones while still alive, opting for positivity over a traditional funeral. He has even suggested that his family use funeral funds to take his brothers on a trip instead, showcasing his caring nature. Jennah reflects on his legacy, planning to write books and advocate for organ donation to prevent other families from enduring similar hardships.
"Wes' story doesn't end when he takes his last breath," Jennah said. "If anything, it's going to begin. There are some mountains we need to move, and maybe it will be Wes who helps us move them."
As February marks Heart Month, Wes's story serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for organ donors and community support in the face of life's toughest challenges.
