First responders help make boy's birthday special

BRADENTON (FOX 13) - Jamie Sprout continues to defeat the odds. He has a mitochondrial disorder and was supposed to be on a ventilator by age 10. 

He loves first responders and wanted a first responder-themed birthday party. Today he celebrated his 12th birthday with several first responders from various agencies around the county, and even famed Sarasota circus performer Bello Nock.

“He’s just so grateful for everything we do for him, the police department, anyone. He’s just very thankful for life,” offered Marc Massella of Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue.

Jamie’s mother Nicole is proud of how brave and strong her son is. She is also very thankful for the first responders and how they have become a part of their family. 

“Very loved, they’ve been by our side pretty much since day one when we met them. We need anything, we call them, they’re there,” she said.  “The sheriff’s department has been a huge help and inspiration in more ways than one.”

There’s sheriffs and police here and everything, and I’ve got a table full of presents, so I think that’s pretty cool,” Jamie exclaimed.