My Dory! I procrastinated as long as I could to write this letter. I knew by writing it, it would make it just that more “real” that you’re really gone! From the moment I found out I was pregnant, to your last breaths, I told you that I’ll always be by your side no matter what, and I meant it! God blessed me to be your mama, and I accepted the role with honor!!

Our experience wasn’t anything I imagined, but still one that I would never change! God knew I needed you and exactly when I needed you. I still remember my first prayer about you.

God exceeded my expectations when I prayed for you! The light, love, joy, and peace you brought me is incomparable to anyone I’ve ever known!

I found out about you on May 23, 2025, and you took your last breath on May 25, 2026. You helped change and push me in so many ways within this year! Being able to see you beat the odds, reach milestones, and just show up as the strongest baby I’ve ever known, showed so many people, including mama, that we can be just as strong!

I’m so glad I still got a chance to experience motherhood! I’ll miss hearing you cry, seeing your gums when you smile, talking to you and you trying to talk back, hyping you up when you dance to Gracie’s Corner, seeing you react/respond to my voice over everyone else’s, ALL THE SNUGGLES AND CUDDLES, and sooooo much more!

In only 5 months, you left a lasting impression on so many hearts! You were so loved by MeMe, PaPa,and TT! Let’s not even get started on the medical staff! You’ll forever be “King Dorian” at Children’s Mercy!

You taught us all so much, Dorian. There won’t be a day that goes by that I won’t think of you, baby boy. I know this isn’t “goodbye,” it’s just “see you later.” So, see you waiter Mama’s Baby! I wuv you soooo merch!

I love you FOREVER, Mama <3

P. S. I hope you’re not side-eyeing anybody up there in Heaven lol. 

The family of Dorian would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the countless acts of love, kindness, and support shown throughout his life and during this season of loss. Thank you to everyone who prayed, visited, called, sent messages, provided meals, gave financial support, and encouraged us through Dorian’s journey. Your compassion carried us through some of our most difficult days and reminded us that we were never walking alone. We extend special thanks to the doctors, nurses, therapists, and medical staff who cared for Dorian with dedication and compassion. We are also deeply grateful to our church family, friends, and loved ones who stood with us in faith, believing God every step of the way. While our hearts miss Dorian dearly, we are comforted by the faithfulness of God. Though his journey ended differently than we expected, we trust the Lord’s perfect wisdom and sovereign plan. We thank God for the gift of Dorian’s life, the joy he brought to so many, and the precious memories that will forever remain in our hearts. May God richly bless each of you for the love you have shown our family.

With sincere appreciation, The Family