New Grand Island nonprofit honoring late toddlers memory

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) - Following the tragic loss of their toddler son, a Grand Island family is hoping their new nonprofit can help others in his name.

“He was always running over to the neighbors, playing, laughing, he loved his dog, he loved playing anything with the ball. He was a mama’s boy, he loved his mom. He was just a great little guy that got dealt a really bad deck of cards,” said Joe Vavricek as he reflects on the life of his son.

In December of 2020, little Jett Vavricek suffered a severe brain injury after chocking on a piece of food. For months Jett fought like the fighter he was, “During that time he demonstrated tremendous courage and fight, more than I can imagine looking back,” said Joe.

Sadly, after months spent in various hospitals, Jett passed away. His family and loved ones left devastated by the immense loss. But Jett’s parents Joe and Julie knew that through there tragedy they could help other, that’s when “Fighter Jett” was born.

“We are entering up upon the time of the Go Big Give event and hopefully we can get the word out and make it a success for him,” he said.

Fighter Jett is among dozens of participating nonprofits taking part in the this years Go Big Give fundraising event. They hope with the money raised they can help support children throughout the community in Jett’s honor.

“If there’s something we can do to help kids that need extra support, or things to play on, all these different things that we take for granted, whatever we can do to support them would be our goal.”

Saturday, April 23 would have been Jett’s 3rd birthday. The family plans on fishing and releasing balloons in his memory.

Go Big Give kicks off May 5 with pre-give starting April 25.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO FIGHTER JETT

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