WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. - A Wesley Chapel 13-year-old is inviting everyone to celebrate his birthday with him this weekend.
Eric Piburn is hosting a birthday bash at Old McMicky's Farm in Odessa on Sunday.
The party is on Sunday, March 1 from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.
"If you don't come, you'll miss out on all the fun then I'll be sad Eric, but if you do come and you don't miss the fun, I'll be happy Eric," said Eric Piburn.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE
- Wesley Chapel boy born with congenital heart defects made honorary Police Cadet
- Boy with congenital heart defect holds toy drive in Tampa
- Tampa Bay area family asking parents to reconsider anti-vaccination stance
His parents said doctors did not expect him to see his first birthday, but their son turned 13 years old in December.
"Because his birthday is December 30th, you can't plan a party around New Year's. It just doesn't work, people have plans. There is too much going on, you've got the holidays," laughed his mother, Randi Piburn.
Eric was born with congenital heart defects and has been in and out of a hospital since birth.
He had four open heart surgery and needs oxygen all the time. His mom gives him a long list of medications.
"We don't know if he's going to make it to December again. We just don't know with the way his feelings are, the way his body is reacting. We don't know. Tomorrow is not even promised," said Randi.
Eric's mother said her son's condition is progressively getting worse.
"He's tired of fighting, but he's going to fight," said Randi.
"He can't even catch his breath to walk a small distance," she added.
"He's a light. He's a spirit and has so much to give everybody."
Eric is looking forward to his birthday party.
"When you have someone who lives this kind of life and you see the days getting harder and harder, it's more important to have something to lift their spirits," said Randi.
Tickets for the party are $10. The money will help the family with medical bills.
The party will be held on Sunday at Old McMicky's Farm at 9612 Crescent Drive in Odessa.
To purchase tickets, click here.