Roanoke Elementary fourth grader becomes a Texas Ranger for a day, creating lifelong memories

At nine years old, James Persson has faced challenges beyond what many adults encounter. 

While his journey has been filled with heartache, a recent experience sparked hope for his future. 

James, a fourth grader at Roanoke Elementary, was granted his wish of being a Texas Ranger for a day through Make-A-Wish, an international nonprofit organization that grants the wishes of children with critical illnesses. James has hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a severe congenital heart defect in which the left side of his heart is underdeveloped.

“We found out in utero at our 20-week ultrasound that he was going to be born with half a heart,” said Lindsey Persson, James’ mother. “They’ve done a process of three surgeries where the right side is doing what the left would have done. He has been successful through all three surgeries.”

His first surgery took place at just eight days old, and his latest was at seven. 

“They basically call him a miracle,” Mrs. Persson said, her voice trembling. “They didn’t expect him to be doing as well. When he was born, he was actually breathing on his own and we got to wait a few hours before they started any procedures.”

James learned he had been nominated by his father’s work colleague to have his wish fulfilled through Make-A-Wish. 

“My husband and I both got teary eyed because it’s something that is very special to him — something he’ll always hold on to,” Mrs. Persson reflected. “We didn’t expect it. We really didn’t. I think as every parent who has a kid in this situation, we just think of them as our kids and we adapt to the situation.”

In a video about his wish, James, a little league pitcher since age six, expressed his desire to learn from professional players to improve his swing. On the big day, however, he was so starstruck he forgot to ask for tips but enjoyed chatting with the players. He was assigned a locker with a personalized jersey and a duffle bag filled with Texas Rangers gear. 

The family experienced a VIP day, including a hotel stay, a chauffeured ride to the stadium, and a grand entrance where over 100 employees applauded him. They toured the lounge, locker rooms, and dugout before watching the game from a suite filled with James’ favorite foods. 

“The experience was one I know he will never forget, even though he doesn’t speak it with words as most boys don’t,” Mrs. Persson said. “I know he will never forget it. Just seeing his face — his actual expressions. Seeing what they had for him and how they treated him so nice and kind is something our family will never forget.” 

For James, meeting his favorite player, Adolis Garcia, stood out as the highlight. 

“He’s my favorite player,” James beamed. “I got my own locker, jersey, and a duffle bag full of goodies. Travis Jankowski even gave me a bat and batting gloves!”