Paddle Out for my Son James, only 18

[ROSSOLY]

sorry for your loss....

[ronbo613]

I'm sorry for your loss Paul. I met James a couple times, he was a good kid.

[Gigafish]

My heart goes out to you and your family. Deepest condolences.

[janines.fishtales@cox.net]

I am so, so sorry...

I am surf launch phobic, but I will make my reservation. For all he gave, I will face my own fears in his memory.

Janine

[alanw]

Paul, I can't even imagine what you're going through. I'm very sorry for the loss of James. You did a great job raising a fantastic son, and your family's ability to help others during this time is truly inspiring.

[monkeyfishturds]

Bump

[PAL]

We're a go for Monday, launching from the Shores at 9:30. Circle up about a half mile straight out around 10. If you're fishing earlier that morning and you're so inclined, all are welcome to join us.

[Jimmyz123]

God Bless you Paul, see you Monday. Thank you again for posting up all the photos of James on your FB Page, though I never met him, He looks like a great kid, and he's still alive with all your efforts, he's with us all.

[defjack]

I will be there Paul.. Jack

[Iceman]

Just heard the official word from Paul, we are a go! I am coming down with Steve and a few loaner kayaks that Paul needed. I have some personal business to attend to after paddling, then hoping to run by Kate Sessions Park at noonish for the get together there.

We invite you to join us to celebrate the life of James Andrew Lebowitz (1996-2015), a wonderful young man who left us suddenly, but not without a lasting legacy. James gave up his heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and pancreas so that others may live, including San Diegan George Martinez, who had very little time left. For George (and others), James was a literal life saver.

James' story was documented in the San Diego Union Tribune and Western Outdoor News. Story links below.

The paddle-out will depart from La Jolla Shores Beach at the foot of Avenida de la Playa at 9:30 am, with the remembrance to follow around 10 am on Monday, February 23. If you plan on paddling one mile roundtrip, you're in the ballpark. It might be shorter.

For those who prefer, boat transport will be available (RSVP strictly required - the boat is almost full), departing from and returning to Mission Bay. Board the Fortune at Seaforth Landing at 8:30 am. You'll be on the boat for roughly three hours before returning to the dock at Mission Bay.

An informal gathering with fish tacos and drinks will follow at Kate Sessions Park in La Jolla, beginning around noon. Visit the remembrance table to sign the memory book, view the photo slideshow, and purchase your James Andrew Lebowitz (JAL) Memorial Cal Poly Scholarship Endowment fund sticker.

Tommy Gomes of Catalina Offshore Products is cooking up his famous fish tacos. Stop by the Lifesharing / Donate Life California table to sign up to be an organ donor.

A short memorial program will follow lunch.

Pack a beach or lawn chair if you want to sit - this is waterman style.

Come to the paddle-out, join us at Kate Sessions, come to both, or think of James and hug a loved one. The reception will take place rain or shine. The paddle out is weather dependent. Check in here as the event approaches for updates.