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'Never take things for granted:' Warner Robins community supports chronically-ill boy

11-year-old Jadarius Brown starts hospice care at home with failing kidneys, congestive heart failure, and a rare birth defect.

MACON, Ga. — The Warner Robins community is supporting a boy who struggles with congestive heart failure and other serious medical conditions. Jadarius Brown has been in and out of the hospital for last six months. That hasn't stopped his big personality from shining through.

The 11-year old is in his happy place when he watches mascots on television. Regina Forrest says the boy has had four open heart surgeries. He has Single Ventricle Heterotaxy Syndrome and failing kidneys. She says he tries to find joy where he can while his physical health declines. 

"My hope is just to give him the best life I can give him," said Forrest. 

Forrest says Jadarius is starting hospice care at home Friday so he can enjoy life outside of the hospital. She says doctors told her Jadarius needed a heart transplant. After further discussion and advice from medical professionals, Forrest says she decided against more surgery.

She says some GEICO employees made Jadarius a video with the company's mascot and his favorite song to lift his spirits. 

"Emotional help goes a whole lot further than money ever could go," said Forrest. 

Forrest says the boy's mother died in 2018 from heart complications. Forrest says it's been a difficult time because she stopped working to take care of him.

The boy has low oxygen levels and dietary restrictions. Forrest says she will do what she can to make sure he can enjoy the time he has left. 

"He taught me to live every day like it's your last and to never take things for granted," said Forrest. 

Forrest says Jadarius also has a moderate intellectual disability and autism. She says nothing has stopped him from showing her pure love.

Jadarius has his next hospital appointment in about two weeks. 

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