Ethan

Ethan was full of life long before cancer entered the picture. He had a bright smile, a quick sense of humor, and a heart that noticed when others needed a friend. He loved Disney movies, and his all-time favorite was Lilo & Stitch. The idea of Ohana — that family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten — stuck with him in a special way. He was also a little brother, a son, and a friend who made an impact on everyone around him.

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On July 30, 2020, just after his twelfth birthday, Ethan was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma. When the doctors shared the news, he wiped his tears and said words that showed his courage beyond his years:

“I AM GOING TO DO WHAT I CAN TO FIGHT THIS.” 
-Ethan. 
 

From that day forward, Ethan faced the hardest battle of his life. He began treatment right away, enduring long hospital stays, difficult procedures, and months of chemotherapy. Even while fighting, Ethan wanted to keep living life on his terms. He kept up with his schoolwork online, stayed connected with friends, and celebrated the moment he was accepted into the Junior National Honor Society at his middle school.

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After five months of treatment, the cancer spread. Ethan’s fight turned into a war, and on March 25, 2021, he passed away at just twelve years old. Though his time here was far too short, Ethan’s courage, kindness, and joy left a mark that will never fade.

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Ethan’s Ohana was created to carry that light forward. Inspired by his love for Lilo & Stitch and the truth that ohanameans family, we chose this name because it reflects who Ethan was and what he believed. Our mission is simple: to make sure families like ours know they are not alone, to spread kindness the way Ethan did, and to ensure that no child is ever forgotten.

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Ethan’s story continues in every act of kindness, every smile shared, and every life touched through this work. He will always be remembered, and his Ohana will always be with him.