Today my daughter would be turning 28, if she were still here. I can’t help but feel the loss a little more sharply on her birthday; I wish with all of my heart that she were here to celebrate. We are marking the day together as a family, though it’s hard to find the right way to commemorate the day. Nothing feels quite right.

Having lost Kayln so suddenly, to a brain AVM, was such a shock. Though we knew she was not in good health, we had no idea we would lose her at the age of 20. We should have so many more years together to make new memories. Her condition went un-diagnosed, which often happens with rare diseases.

I imagine that every year her birthday will be a difficult day. How could it not be? I will always wish I still had the chance to see her reach her goals and celebrate those accomplishments with her. Though we cannot be together, I know we will see you again one day. Thinking of you with love today.