On Saturday 7/23 the unimaginable happened… there was an accident and 3 year old Jackson was transported in critical condition to Comer Children's Hospital in Chicago.

As his dad explained on Sunday:

“On Saturday morning, Jackson was hit by a golf cart at an RV park in Marengo. He suffered multiple skull fractures, brain bleeds, and broken pelvic bone, just a horrible thing to happen to a 3 year old. At this point I think I've ran the gauntlet of emotions, I think everyone in our family has. Jackson has been a tough little dude from the minute he got into the ambulance on Saturday. Currently, his blood pressure is all over the place from dipping down, to go back to a more stable level, etc. We're not sure what the next 12-24 hours hold for our little Jackson and our family. I do want to say that I'm grateful for all the love and prayers going coming from everyone, it has helped my wife and I tremendously. This feels like a horrible nightmare and all I want to do is wake up from it. Whatever the outcome may be, I will always cherish the fun I had with Jackson. He has left an impression on my heart and soul.”

Jackson continued to fight until Monday when his little body could no longer.

We didn’t get the miracle that we were praying for, but we did get the miracle of having shared 3 amazing years of our lives with Jackson.

Jackson has an amazing family and so many people would like to know how they can help as they begin to navigate through this tragic loss. Currently donations to assist the family financially to allow them to take the time off of work that they need to grieve and support the 8 and 12 year old siblings would be so very appreciated. The family also has a PayPal account set up at @TheEvansFamily5 should you prefer that.

Jackson will be missed beyond words. “If I can take anything away from this experience it's that life itself is fragile, unexpected, and sometimes downright hurtful. For my friends who have children, hold your kids close to you, they aren't immune to life's crazy rules and the unexpected does sometimes happen to them. So cherish every minute, good, bad, upsetting, whatever it is, remember and cherish those moments. For my friends who may not have children, cherish and love those around you, for they too aren't immune to life's unexpected rules. I guess what I'm trying to say with this, whether you have children or not is to love and cherish every moment. I know I will with every memory I have a Jackson. I'm sure this won't be the last time I say this but he was truly my sidekick. He may have been a Momma's boy and he was but when it came to doing "Daddy" work, he was sleeves rolled up and let's go. Those memories I will never let go of or forget. Again, thank you for the kind words, messages and texts. Jess and myself truly appreciate all the support for everyone over these past few days and the upcoming ones. Be kind. Love. Cherish.” -Matt Evans