Jet Feramisco had always been a young man with big dreams and an even bigger heart. As he looked toward the future, he imagined himself in college and even talked about becoming a State Senator one day. Those who knew him best saw that whatever Jet set his mind to, he pursued with passion, discipline and determination.
This determination shown through Jet’s work on the Quincy High School track team and quiz bowl. He brought passion and commitment to everything he worked at.
Two weeks before the start of his senior year of high school at Quincey High School, Jet’s life changed suddenly when he was involved in a bicycle accident that resulted in a devastating brain injury. In the midst of shock and heartbreak, his mother, Jamie, found herself holding onto a memory that now felt profoundly important. Not long before the accident, Jet had come home smiling after updating his driver’s license and choosing to register as an organ and tissue donor. When Jamie asked if he was sure, reminding him what a big decision it was. Jet answered calmly and confidently. If the time ever came, he told her, he wouldn’t need those gifts anymore and he would want them to help someone else.
Although the donation process was filled with sorrow for Jamie there were moments that are still deeply meaningful. Jamie will never forget Jet’s honor walk. Seeing people pause to recognize the profound gifts her son was giving was something she will carry with her forever. “Even in unimaginable loss,” she said, “there was hope.”
Jet was able to help others through organ and tissue donation. Jamie has received a letter from a mother whose son received a second chance at life because of Jet. Reading that note was both heartbreaking and healing. It was proof that Jet continues to live on through the lives he touched.
His impact didn’t end there. Many of Jet’s friends were moved by his courage and generosity and have since registered as organ donors themselves. His kindness continues to ripple outward, inspiring others to choose compassion.
Today, Jamie speaks about Jet often. She shares stories of his determination, his humor, and his belief in honesty and openness, including conversations about death and donation. One of his friends once told her that Jet would never want conversations about death to be taboo. And so she continues to honor him by telling his story, knowing that each time she does, his light reaches someone new.
“I am endlessly proud of my son,” Jamie says. “I am grateful for the 17 beautiful years I was given with him. Through organ and tissue donation, Jet’s kindness, generosity, and love continue to grow—touching lives, inspiring others, and offering hope.”
