Young dad dies suddenly with 72 holes in his lungs
Dylan’s friends knew he was sick and struggling.
But 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 love, Dylan shared a heartfelt message when his son was born: “Words can’t explain how much more meaning I have in my life with you here!”
Sadly, Dylan will not be able to celebrate more birthdays or see his child grow up.
The young father’s passing on March 22, due to a serious bacterial infection, was a shock even though he had been dealing with health issues for some time.
Family friend Cheyenne O’Brien remarked, “Even though the 28-year-old had been very sick in the weeks and days before he died, his family and friends were still stunned by his death.”
A rapid decline
Dylan’s health issues started getting worse in 2021 when a scan showed he had two holes in his lungs.
By the middle of 2024, that number had jumped to an unbelievable 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 if he hadn’t gone to the hospital so quickly, it could have been fatal.”
Dylan dealt with constant symptoms like a bad cough, reflux, tiredness, and mental health struggles. Even though over-the-counter medicines didn’t help, he looked for specialized treatment in early 2024 after a lung bleed put him in the hospital for three weeks.
Caitlyn explained how much treatment he was getting: “At this point, my brother was on so much medication and antibiotics that it filled an entire backpack.”
Still, Dylan stayed positive. “He was really sick but fighting for his health and hopeful about getting better,” Caitlyn said. However, doctors had warned that the seriousness of the bacteria in his lungs made it unlikely he would live past 30.
A family’s grief
Just a few days before he passed away, Dylan’s mom, Suzanne, took him and his puppy, Polar, back home to set up long-term care. Sadly, Dylan died just five days later. The family is still trying to understand how his health got worse so quickly.
Dylan passed away just days before he turned 29.
To help pay for the funeral, a GoFundMe campaign was started with a goal of AU$6,000, and it has raised over AU$4,600 so far.
Caitlyn wrote on the fundraiser, “Let this be a reminder that those you love can be gone in an instant. So, hold them close today and tell them you love them. There is a fragility in all of us.” She also said, “His memory and his story will be remembered by many who loved him, and he will be forever missed.”
O’Brien shared the same feelings: “Even though Dylan had been sick, this has really shocked his loved ones who now have to deal with their sadness and the stress of planning his farewell.” She encouraged, “To help Dylan’s family celebrate his life and give him the send-off he deserves, please donate if you can and share. Thank you from Dylan’s family.”
Dylan’s story is a sad reminder to appreciate every moment with those we love. His legacy continues through his son and the many lives he impacted.