Hello to each of you; this week we have very sad news to share.

Our sweet Jett Trunnell ended his battle with cancer on Monday, Nov. 2 at just 15 years old. Jett and his precious family were the recipients of many prayers from those in our community and beyond. My heart breaks for this very special young man; he fought so hard to stay alive … to be here with his family and friends. Jett was so kind hearted, his love and compassion for everyone around him was unmatched. The last few weeks were extremely hard for Jett and for his family as he fought valiantly against Osteosarcoma.

“Make A Wish” reached out to the family to make plans in September for a special trip to Disneyland for Jett to meet Johnny Depp. Jett’s forever wish was ready to come true as he loved Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” and his wish had always been to meet Captain Jack Sparrow, as in Mr. Johnny Depp. Jett also loved riding that ride at Disneyland. Sadly, the call that would make his wish become a reality came after Jett had been admitted back at Stanford and he could no longer travel.

A huge thank you to the San Francisco 49ers for once again blessing our precious Jett with amazing gifts; Brock Purdy and George Kittle helmets and jerseys along with other gifts. Although our sweet Jett was very weak, he tried hard to smile and acknowledge his gifts. Jett was one of the most grateful young men I know.

As he continued to battle, his family sat by his bedside around the clock and Jett’s mom sent updates as often as she could.

A few weeks ago when Jett was still able to be alert, his Oakdale Police Department friends went to Stanford to visit their buddy. Our Modesto Fire Department has had the great pleasure of spending much time with Jett. Our Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office has spent many special times with our sweet Jett as well. Last Christmas, Jett rode in the Valley Home Christmas Parade with his friends from the sheriff’s department. After the parade, Jett enjoyed fellowship with community members and a heartfelt prayer in the little church in Valley Home. Sheriff’s Lieutenant and Pastor Brock Condit led community members in prayer as Jett enjoyed a delicious dinner plate piled high with Christmas treats.

As summer came, Jett would make several trips to Stanford but there were also special moments back at home.

On June 27, Stanislaus County Supervisor Buck Condit and his wife Kim were present at Dorada Park in Oakdale as Jett received a beautiful guitar. It was signed that day by Noel Haggard, Willy Tea Taylor, and the Boys from Bakersfield.

Jett very recently was blessed with a visit from one of his hometown heroes, retired Oakdale Police Officer Rick Plath. Rick and Jett share a very special bond; a bond many years in the making. Our thanks to Officer Plath for standing by Jett’s bedside; without a doubt Jett knew you were there. We also extend a heartfelt thank you to all who have prayed for Jett and his family and ask for continued prayers for his family so they may be comforted in this time of loss.

Jett fought so bravely; he will always be an inspiration to many of us.

As always, you may reach me by text or telephone at 209-985-5233.