BURLINGTON, N.C. – Albert Jeffries, or Al J, was officially welcomed home by the Burlington community on Saturday.
Al J finally returned home on April 7, after spending 127 days in the hospital. The 13-year-old received a life-saving transplant in March at UNC Hospital.Previous: Burlington boy thrilled to be home with new heart
Saturday, Mayor Ian Baltutis gave an official proclamation, declaring April 23, 2016 as “Albert Jeffries ‘Al J’ Day.” Hundreds of people packed into the Burlington Royals Baseball Stadium to celebrate Al J and his recovery.
“This is amazing. I did not expect all these surprises to happen. This is just, I feel like I’m dreaming right now. I really feel like I’m dreaming! This is crazy,” said Al J Jeffries.
Just more than month after his heart transplant, Al J is keeping up with the crowd, dancing and cheering.
“I can run, I can swim! I can do laps and laps without stopping! I can jump on this trampoline nonstop. I can do anything!”
Al J’s mother is inspired by his strength and amazed by how quickly her community became part of their family.
“This is my gift right here. Al J being home, feeling better and with the new heart. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate. I really can’t,” said Tina Turner, Al J’s mother.
She added, “I have learned that people have great hearts. I’ve learned that when a community comes together, they come together strong. I’ve learned to never underestimate the love of people.”
The Burlington community has wrapped it’s arms around Al J for the past several months. From fundraisers to countless get-well cards and prayers, Al J and his family are thankful for the love and support.
“The community is just so amazing. This supported me so much and I just thank them so much for doing all this. I really do,” said Al J.
Al J received several gifts at the party including a basketball hoop, bicycle and trampoline.