Bereavement
In 2020, in the quiet hum of a hospital NICU, Lauryn and her husband began a journey no parent ever anticipates. Their newborn daughter, Blakely Mae, had just been diagnosed with Mucolipidosis (ML) Type II, a rare and devastating genetic disorder. In that moment, their world shifted—ushering them into the role of “rare parents.”
“In the midst of overwhelming emotions, uncertainty, and grief, we made a choice to live each day with love,” Lauryn recalled. “And to pack a lifetime of love into the short time we had with Blakely.”
And that’s exactly what they did. Blakely’s life, though heartbreakingly brief, was radiant. She lived just two and a half years, but every moment was saturated with affection, tenderness, and joy.
The loss of Blakely was shattering. “To say we were devastated is an understatement,” Lauryn shared. “We would have moved mountains to heal her. But now, we’re trying to find purpose in the pain.”
Since Blakely’s passing, Lauryn and her family have been committed to honoring Blakely’s memory by raising awareness for ML and advocating for other children facing rare diseases. “Every day, we honor her name, her spirit, and the other rare children who still need a cure.”
Blakely Mae may have only been here for a short time, but her impact endures—a testament to the powerful love of her family and the joy she brought to all who knew her.
“We miss you more than words can express, Blakely Mae,” said Lauryn. “You are forever in our hearts.”
