Dylan’s friends knew he was sick and struggling.

But no one could have guessed how quickly he’d be taken from them — and when you hear what was found in his lungs, the story gets even more chilling.

Dylan Jay Watts, a 28-year-old from Broulee on Australia’s New South Wales coast, was many things — but above all, he was a devoted father. Known for his deep love, Dylan shared a touching message when his son was born: “Words cannot describe how much more purpose I feel with you in my life!”

Tragically, Dylan won’t get to celebrate more birthdays or watch his child grow.

The young father’s death on March 22, caused by a severe bacterial infection, came as a shock despite his ongoing health struggles.

Family friend Cheyenne O’Brien noted, “Although the 28-year-old had been gravely ill in the weeks and days leading to his passing, his loved ones were shocked by his death.”

A rapid decline

Dylan’s health battles began to escalate in 2021 when a scan revealed two holes in his lungs.

By mid-2024, that number had skyrocketed to a staggering 72.

His sister, Caitlyn, shared with Daily Mail Australia, “I found out in July of last year how severe things had begun to get, that he had holes in his lungs and had been in hospital for three weeks after coughing up blood.” She added, “His doctor told him if he hadn’t got in so soon, that could have killed him.”

Dylan faced relentless symptoms — chronic coughing, reflux, exhaustion, and mental health challenges. Despite over-the-counter remedies failing, he sought specialized care in early 2024 after a lung hemorrhage landed him in the hospital for three weeks.

Caitlyn revealed the extent of his treatment: “By this point, her brother was on enough medication and antibiotics that it ‘filled an entire backpack.’”

Yet, Dylan remained hopeful. “He was severely unwell yet fighting for his health and optimistic about some kind of recovery,” Caitlyn said. Doctors, however, had warned that the severity of the bacteria in his lungs made it unlikely he’d live past 30.

A family’s grief

Just days before his passing, Dylan’s mother, Suzanne, brought him and his puppy, Polar, home to arrange long-term care. Tragically, Dylan died five days later. The family is still grappling with how his condition deteriorated so rapidly.

Dylan passed away just days before his 29th birthday.

To help cover funeral costs, a GoFundMe campaign was launched with a goal of AU$6,000, raising 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 added, “His memory and his story will be remembered by many who loved him, and he will be forever missed.”

O’Brien echoed the sentiment: “Although Dylan had been unwell, this has, of course, come as a shock to his loved ones who are now having to deal with not only their grief, but the stress of having to organize his farewell.” She urged, “To help Dylan’s family be able to celebrate his life and have the send-off that he deserves please donate if you can and share. Thank you from Dylan’s family.”

Dylan’s story is a heartbreaking reminder to cherish every moment with loved ones. His legacy lives on through his son and the countless lives he touched.