Massachusetts Man Who Spent Birthday in ICU Has One Simple Wish

There are some birthdays that feel a little more meaningful than others, and for one West Wareham family, this year’s celebration is about so much more than cake and candles.

On June 13, Jared Rousseau will turn 26 years old, and after everything he has been through over the past few years, his family is determined to make sure this is the birthday he’ll always remember. Last year, Jared spent his birthday in the ICU, a place no family ever wants to be, but today, he’s back home, healthy, smiling and enjoying the simple things in life again.

Family friend Kelsey Duffy shared that the difference between last June and this one is nothing short of remarkable. These days, Jared is bowling with his cousins, taking trips to Target, getting ready to welcome a new puppy named George into the family, and like any big-hearted kid at heart, still has a soft spot for Elmo.

A Birthday Worth Celebrating

There’s another reason this birthday means so much. Jared never really had the chance to celebrate turning 21 because the pandemic put those plans on hold, making this the first big milestone birthday his family can truly celebrate together.

READ MORE: Massachusetts 10-Year-Old Turns Injury Into Mission to Help Kids With Cancer

His mom, Cheryl Rowe, has helped organize what she’s calling Jared’s “birthday casino adventure,” a trip to First Light Casino in East Taunton on Saturday, June 13. Along with his mom, dad, aunt and cousins, some of the incredible nurses who helped care for Jared during his lengthy hospital stay are planning to join the celebration, a full-circle moment that speaks volumes about the bonds formed during difficult times.

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A Community That Has Always Rooted for Jared

Many on the SouthCoast may already know Jared’s story. Over the years, he has touched countless lives with his infectious personality and kind heart, even finding ways to give back to others despite facing his own challenges. His family friend said seeing him healthy, happy and simply enjoying life again has been the greatest gift of all.

Wareham Man, Jared Rousseau, Birthday Cards

If you’d like to help make Jared’s birthday a little brighter, his family is inviting anyone who wishes to send him a birthday card. And if you happen to be at First Light Casino on Saturday morning, don’t be surprised if you spot a crowd gathered around a young man with a huge smile on his face. After all he’s overcome, it’s safe to say this is one birthday celebration that’s been a long time coming.