On May 26, 2016, Journey Unique Houston entered this world and was diagnosed
with a rare and life-threatening heart condition known as Pulmonary Atresia.
Before her arrival, her parents, Lakesha Nelson and Don Houston, were informed of
the severity of her condition and were told there was uncertainty about whether she
would survive delivery.
Despite the devastating news, they chose hope. They chose faith. They chose to give
Journey the opportunity to experience life.
From the very beginning, Journey proved she was a fighter. Throughout her young
life, she endured five major heart surgeries, more than twenty additional procedures,
and two throat surgeries that required her to have a tracheostomy.
Doctors shared that one day she would need a heart transplant. Journey spent the
first nine months of her life in the hospital, courageously battling every obstacle placed before her.
During this time, her parents carried not only the emotional weight of her medical
journey but also the financial burden that continued to grow. Don worked two jobs to
support their family, while Lakesha dedicated herself fully to caring for Journey, as her condition required constant and specialized attention.
There were three separate times when doctors told her parents that she would not
survive her procedures. Yet Journey continued to defy the odds. She fought with a strength far beyond her years.
Just months ago, doctors informed the family that she had reached the maximum
dosage of medications her body could withstand and that there were no further
procedural options available. Still, her family remained hopeful, pushing through every storm with faith and love.
On February 13, 2026, Journey laid down her earthly burdens and entered eternal
rest. It has truly been a long journey for her and for her family. Today, we find comfort in
knowing she is at peace — free from pain, free from hospitals, free from suffering.
The family humbly asks for continued prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. Any donation to assist with the financial burdens associated with her care and homegoing would be deeply appreciated.
