Dylan’s friends were aware that he was unwell and having a tough time.
However, no one could have predicted how fast he would be taken away from them — and when you find out what was discovered in his lungs, the tale becomes even more frightening.
Dylan Jay Watts, a 28-year-old from Broulee on Australia’s New South Wales coast, was many things — but most importantly, he was a loving father. Known for his immense affection, Dylan shared a heartfelt message when his son was born: “Words cannot express how much more meaning I feel with you in my life!”
Sadly, Dylan will not have the chance to celebrate more birthdays or see his child grow up.
The young father’s death on March 22, which was due to a serious bacterial infection, was shocking even though he had been dealing with health issues for a while.
Family friend Cheyenne O’Brien said, “Even though the 28-year-old had been really sick in the weeks and days before he died, his family and friends were still surprised by his passing.”
A quick decline
Dylan’s health problems started to get worse in 2021 when a scan showed two holes in his lungs.
By mid-2024, that number had jumped to an incredible 72.
His sister, Caitlyn, told Daily Mail Australia, “I found out in July of last year just how serious things had become, that he had holes in his lungs and had been in the hospital for three weeks after coughing up blood.” She also mentioned, “His doctor said that if he hadn’t gone to the hospital so quickly, it could have been fatal.”
Dylan dealt with constant symptoms like chronic coughing, reflux, tiredness, and mental health issues. Even though over-the-counter medicines didn’t help, he looked for specialized treatment in early 2024 after a lung hemorrhage put him in the hospital for three weeks.
Caitlyn shared how much treatment her brother was getting: “At this point, he was taking so much medication and antibiotics that it ‘filled an entire backpack.’”
Still, Dylan kept his spirits up. “He was really sick but still fighting for his health and hopeful about getting better,” Caitlyn mentioned. Doctors, though, had cautioned that the serious bacteria in his lungs made it unlikely he’d live beyond 30.
A family’s sorrow
Just a few days before he passed away, Dylan’s mom, Suzanne, took him and his puppy, Polar, home to set up long-term care. Sadly, Dylan died five days later. The family is still trying to understand how quickly his health got worse.
Dylan died just days before turning 29.
To help with funeral expenses, a GoFundMe was started with a target of AU$6,000, and it has raised over AU$4,600 so far.
Caitlyn wrote on the fundraiser, “Let this remind you that the people you love can be gone in a moment. So, cherish them today and tell them you love them. We are all fragile.” She also said, “His memory and story will be cherished by many who cared for him, and he will always be missed.”
O’Brien shared the same feeling: “Even though Dylan was not feeling well, this news has really shocked his family and friends who now have to handle their sadness and the pressure of planning his goodbye.” She encouraged, “If you can, please donate and share to help Dylan’s family celebrate his life and give him the farewell he deserves. Thank you from Dylan’s family.”
Dylan’s story is a sad reminder to appreciate every moment with those we love. His memory continues through his son and all the people he impacted.
