Dallastown Man Meets Patrick Mahomes Before Heart Transplant

C.J. Adams fulfilled a lifelong dream of meeting the NFL star before receiving a new heart.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

C.J. Adams, a 27-year-old man from Dallastown, Pennsylvania, had the opportunity to meet NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes just before undergoing a heart transplant surgery. Adams, who has been a lifelong fan of Mahomes, was able to fulfill his dream of meeting the Kansas City Chiefs star through the efforts of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Why it matters

This heartwarming story highlights the power of community support and the impact that fulfilling a personal dream can have on someone facing a major health challenge. Adams' meeting with Mahomes provided him with inspiration and hope as he prepared for his life-saving surgery.

The details

Adams, who has been dealing with a serious heart condition, was able to spend time with Mahomes and even receive an autographed jersey from the quarterback. The meeting was arranged by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which works to grant the wishes of children and young adults facing critical illnesses.

  • C.J. Adams met Patrick Mahomes on February 10, 2026, just days before his heart transplant surgery.

The players

C.J. Adams

A 27-year-old man from Dallastown, Pennsylvania who was awaiting a heart transplant.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs and a lifelong hero of C.J. Adams.

Make-A-Wish Foundation

A nonprofit organization that arranges for the wishes of children and young adults facing critical illnesses to be granted.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Meeting Patrick was a dream come true. It gave me the strength and motivation I needed to get through my surgery.”

— C.J. Adams (Lebanon Daily News)

What’s next

C.J. Adams is scheduled to undergo his heart transplant surgery on February 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This story demonstrates the profound impact that fulfilling a personal dream can have on someone facing a major health challenge. The support of the community and organizations like Make-A-Wish can provide invaluable inspiration and hope during difficult times.