Community Corner
Forever #DStrong: Dorian Murray Passes Away; Inspired Many With His Bravery
The 8-year-old wanted to be famous all the way to China before he went to Heaven. He became famous worldwide for his bravery and strength.
Dorian Murray had one wish — to be famous all the way to China before his passing. The 8-year-old boy from Rhode Island was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at age four. When the cancer spread to his spinal cord and chemotherapy could not give him extra time, he and his family came to a difficult decision.
“The MRI of Dorian’s spine came back with devastating results,” his parents wrote in December 2015. “The rhabdo has passed into his spinal cord and small cancer cells are floating in his spinal fluid throughout his spine and brain. This type of spread changes everything. He is no longer eligible for any trial. Chemotherapy, which we knew wasn’t a cure anyway, will no longer give him extended time. Chris and I spent hours with our son, holding him, loving him, and deciding next steps. We sat with Dorian today and had the talk no parent should ever have with their child. But we did it. We told him what was happening. We told him he had a choice; continue chemo and possibly gain days or a week at most, or, stay home and be comfortable. Hang out with his family, do some fun things and enjoy the time left. Without the daily visit to the hospital. No chemo. No vomiting. No transfusions. No needles. Dorian easily made his choice; and his father and I support him.”
Dorian was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of pediatric cancer. His wish to become famous in China spread to the whole world. He captured the hearts of many, who shared photos of themselves with the hashtag Dorian created: “#Dstrong.”
The boy who had inspired so many to be brave and strong passed away in the evening hours of Tuesday, March 8.
Friend of the family Kathryn Thomas updated the #dstrong family on the Praying for Dorian Facebook page, on behalf of his family:
"It is with a very heavy heart that i share this news. Dorian J. Murray (#‎dstrong) has gained his beautiful angel wings tonight and is now pain free. He was surrounded by people who love him and his transition to heaven was very peaceful. He was embraced by both mom and dad.”
The family asked for privacy and respect during this difficult time.
"Riposi en pace, Dorian. We'll take it from here"
Communities from Connecticut, Rhode Island and beyond have taken to the Praying for Dorian Facebook page to share condolences.
The City of Middletown Professional Firefighters Local 1073 wrote a touching tribute on its Facebook page:
"One of the many things people are drawn to about the fire service is that it is steeped in traditions more than 200 years old. One such tradition is the sound of a bell.
Historically, a firefighter's tour of duty began with the sounding of bells. Throughout a shift, each alarm was sounded by a bell or series of bells indicating the box alarm associated with the location of the emergency.
And when the fire was out and the alarm had come to an end, it was the bell that signaled the completion of that call. And when a firefighter dies in the line of duty, it is the toll of the bell that solemnly announced a comrade's passing.
We follow these traditions to show honor and respect to those who fought so hard and so well. In Middletown, we utilize a special signal of five rings of the bell, four times (Signal 5-5-5-5) to represent that our brother or sister has completed their duties and, with their last alarm, finally returned home.
And so in keeping with this tradtion, it is with regret that Middletown Professional Firefighters Local 1073 announces the passing of Honorary Firefighter Dorian Murray, who finally has been released from his courageous battle with rhabdomyosarcoma.
Many will remember Dorian's wish to be famous, and through him the #‎DStrong was started. Firefighters, first responders, and numerous others across the country and world honored Dorian and his fight. We offer our deepest sympathies to Dorian's friends and family.
Dorian, you fought harder than people twice your age. You have been an inspiration to many, and your message will carry on. Riposi en pace, Dorian. We'll take it from here. #DStrong."
The Stonington Police Department, Connecticut said they are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dorian Murray and would like to extend their heartfelt sympathy to the Murray family and friends.
"Dorian has touched us all as he fought a courageous battle with cancer,” police wrote. "You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Dorian. #DStrong.”
The Waterford Police Department changed its Facebook cover photo to a picture of a police vehicle with #DStrong on the hood.
The Ledyard Fire Company sent their support as well:
"We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and his supporters in this difficult time. We were all touched by his spirt and the out pouring of support he received from around the world. RIP young man, you are free. Ledyard Fire will always and forever be #‎DStrong.”
Unity and Strength
The URI Extension Outreach Center said they are honoring the life, courage, and inspiration of Dorian Murray.
"He is a testament to how one child can and did change the whole world for the better,” they wrote on Praying for Dorian's Facebook wall. "Dorian unified a nation from the small state of Rhode Island and exemplified strength, selflessness and perseverance."
Photos courtesy of Ledyard Police Department, Waterford Police Department, Stonington Police Department
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