Jimmy Kimmel has shared an update with fans after his son Billy, 7, underwent his third open-heart surgery. Billy, who was born with a congenital heart defect, received a new valve. Among the many well-wishers was “The Rookie” star Nathan Fillion.
Taking to Instagram, Jimmy, who shares two children with his wife Molly, wrote: “This weekend, our boy Billy had his third (of three, we hope) open-heart surgery. We went into this experience with a lot of optimism and nearly as much fear and came out with a new valve inside a happy, healthy kid.
“Once again, Billy’s doctors, led by the brilliant surgeon Vaughn Starnes, cardiologist Tim Casarez, and the excellent, hard-working staff at CHLA—including doctors, nurses, and nurse practitioners like Misty, Ann, Sylvia, Dana, Caleigh, Nick, Bekah, Julie, Kenny, Caroline, Lisa, Stephanie, Ellize, Ivy, Pam, and Carrie—came through for us with immeasurable kindness and expertise.
He explained that CHLA helps families regardless of their financial circumstances, supported by donations from companies like Disney. He added: “Thank you, Dr. Paul Viviano—my family and I are so grateful to have you in our city and in our lives.
“Thanks to those loving strangers who took time to pray for and send positive energy to our baby. Thanks to our family and friends for rallying around us to an almost-ridiculous extent. Thank you to my wife Molly for being stronger than is reasonable for any mom to be. And Billy, you are the toughest (and funniest) 7-year-old we know.”
He concluded the post by requesting fans donate to the charity via a link in his bio, adding: “Nothing matters more than taking care of each other. With love and gratitude, Jimmy.”
Nathan Fillion responded to the post, writing: “To a quick recovery, Billy. CHLA saved a friend of mine with heart issues when he was a wee lad, as well. Love those people over there
