ROY, Utah– After months of uncertainty and an uphill recovery, 11-year-old Jayson Strong finally got to do something his family once feared might never happen again — celebrate his birthday surrounded by laughter, friends, and love.

A Birthday They Feared Might Not Come

Jayson was struck by a car while in a Roy crosswalk in April, suffering severe injuries that left him hospitalized for weeks. His recovery required relearning how to walk, talk, and move, a challenge that tested both his strength and his family’s faith.

On Thursday, his loved ones gathered for a surprise birthday party — a moment filled with joy and relief.

“We weren’t sure if we were going to have this birthday or not,” said Carlee Johnson, Jayson’s older sister, holding back tears.

When the lights flicked on and his friends jumped out yelling “Surprise!”, Jayson was mobbed with hugs and laughter. Moments later, he was running, chasing, and playing — living proof of resilience that his family once could only pray for.

From Hospital Bed to Backyard Games

Just months earlier, Jayson was still in a hospital bed, facing an uncertain future. His family watched as doctors and therapists worked to help him regain even the simplest movements.

Now, he’s back to playing basketball, football, and hide-and-seek with his siblings — the kind of moments they no longer take for granted.

“We play 1-on-1 basketball, play football, catch, sometimes catch with the baseball mitt, we play hide and seek — we do a lot of things. It’s been good,” said Chance Johnson, Jayson’s older brother.

“I’m just happy,” added Carlee, wiping tears from her eyes. “Super happy that we get to have this birthday.”

A Community Rooting for Jayson

The Roy community has rallied around the Strong family since the accident. Earlier this year, residents and local groups helped raise funds and offered support as Jayson underwent intensive therapy.

The driver involved in the crash was later taken into custody by immigration officials on unrelated charges, but the family has focused on healing rather than blame — cherishing every small victory along the way.

As Jayson blew out his candles, laughter filled the room — a powerful reminder that recovery is not only measured in milestones, but in moments shared with the people who never gave up hope.