Brett Lester, 18, has battled cerebral palsy, seizures, autism and scoliosis since birth, but that hasn't slowed down his love for the Jaguars. He watches every game he can on TV and his room is decorated with all Jaguars décor. With the team securing a postseason home game for the first time in nearly two decades, Dreams Come True reached out to the Jaguars Foundation to help fulfill Brett's dream of attending a Jaguars playoff game.
Upon hearing Brett's story, longtime season ticket member Chris Layton jumped at the chance to partner with Dreams Come True and fulfill Brett's wish. He invited Brett and his family to enjoy the AFC Wild Card game alongside he and his wife in his seats right at field level.
"Brett has been a huge Jaguars fan for years. His dream was to be on the field before the game to see the action up close," said Shelley Lester, Brett's mother. "With the help of Chris and Jill Layton and Dreams Come True of Jacksonville that dream was fulfilled. In addition Brett was able to meet several cheerleaders, David Garrard, Jaxson de Ville, and the NFL Commissioner during Sunday's game. It is a day that Brett will never forget, and we can't thank everyone enough. We look forward to cheering on the Jaguars for many years to come!"
"My wife Jill and I were very excited to be a part of helping make Brett's dream come true. He is a great kid and it was a fantastic day that ended in a big win," said Layton. "Thank you to the Jaguars, Dreams Come True, Brett and his family for allowing us to be a part of a special day!"
Dreams Come True is the First Coast's only locally-based organization dedicated to making dreams come true for children between the ages of 2 ½ and 18, who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.
"Every day we are committed in fulfilling our mission to ensure that every child from the First Coast who is battling a life-threatening illness has the chance to experience the hope and joy of a dream fulfilled, like Brett" said Sheri Criswell, executive director of Dreams Come True. "It is through the support of our community that more than 3,700 dreams have been granted since 1984. The Jacksonville Jaguars have been a vital partner in making Brett's dream a reality and we are thankful for their continued dedication toward Dreams Come True and the children in our community."
