Jai became an organ donor

Jai was likely the biggest Cronulla Sharks fan in Far North Queensland. Deep in Cowboys and Broncos territory, he proudly backed the Cronulla Sharks NRL Team, cheekily igniting rivalry with family and friends. 

‘I would send him to his dad’s, a Bronco's supporter, with any Cronulla Sharks merchandise I could access, and he would wear them with pride and huge cheeky grin,’ mum Sarah fondly remembers. 

Jai also loved Nutella sandwiches for breakfast, had an infectious laugh, a disarming smile and gave the world’s warmest hugs. He enjoyed playing soccer, Dungeons and Dragons and hanging out with his friends. 

Jai’s sudden passing from a cardiac arrest caused by undiagnosed Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome was a devastating shock to his family and community. Jai was unknowingly born with this congenital heart defect which can cause an extra electrical pathway and trigger unexpected episodes of rapid heartbeat.  

But his family knew Jai would want to help others. Sarah was the first to bring up organ donation with the doctor once they knew Jai would soon pass away. His final gift saved 4 lives and transformed many more through eye and tissue donation. 

‘Jai’s doctors and the DonateLife team were incredible. They supported us through every step with compassion and care,’ said Sarah.  

‘His legacy now lives on in all those people.  It’s a beautiful way for Jai to still exist in this world with us, helping others as he always did.’ 

Sarah is so thankful Jai was always given the opportunity to live a purposeful life, full of adventure, loving memories, fun and laughter.  

‘Jai was loved relentlessly; he always knew it. Somewhere there are parts of him out there living, breathing and experiencing life still today. In this way, he is never truly gone. 

‘The family still feel Jai very closely – they carry him in not just their hearts and minds, but in their DNA.’