Saturday felt impossible. And yet, the love that surrounded our sweet family was humbling. As Connor and I walked into the sanctuary with our own parents, the room was filled with hundreds of friends, family and loved ones who showed up for us and for Daphne. And hundreds more online. Daphne left such a mark on so many in her short time on earth. And what a force she continues to be.

On January 23, 2025, our world absolutely shattered. We handed our three-month-old over to a nurse at 8:15 a.m. for her scheduled open-heart surgery. Twelve hours later we were rushed into the pediatric intensive care unit to spend Daphne’s last moments with her.

For those who might be new here, Daphne has been diagnosed with various congenital heart defects (CHDs).

And maybe by sharing our journey, it can help even just one other family feel less alone.