Forever #DSTRONG

Family announces foundation to carry on Dorian Murray's legacy

By Daniel Kittredge
Posted 3/11/16

From his hometown of Westerly on to Warwick and Woonsocket, and well beyond Rhode Island to all corners of the world, Dorian Murray’s story brought together millions of people in common …

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Forever #DSTRONG

Family announces foundation to carry on Dorian Murray's legacy

Posted

From his hometown of Westerly on to Warwick and Woonsocket, and well beyond Rhode Island to all corners of the world, Dorian Murray’s story brought together millions of people in common purpose.

Dorian passed away late Tuesday night. His family made the sad announcement on the “Pray for Dorian” Facebook page.

“He was surrounded by people who love him and his transition to heaven was very peaceful,” the message reads. “He was embraced by both mom and dad.”

First diagnosed with cancer at age four, Dorian – who was eight – has undergone surgeries and treatments, and seen ups and downs in his fight against the disease. In December, when they learned the cancer had spread to his spinal fluid, Dorian and his family chose to stop treatment.

Having made that decision, Dorian said he had one goal before going to heaven – to become famous across the world, particularly in China. His story spread quickly over social media, and in the weeks since has drawn attention and support from all across the globe.

The “#DStrong” movement has garnered involvement from community groups and major celebrities alike. In Rhode Island, thousands have joined in, holding signs and sharing photos to let Dorian know how inspirational he has become. Among those taking part have been students and teachers, civic leaders, police and fire personnel, and local organizations in Warwick, Johnston, and Cranston. He was also honored at the State House.

Last month the Park Theatre in Cranston – in conjunction with Funny 4 Funds and 94HJY – hosted a DStrong comedy fundraiser, drawing hundreds of people and generating tens of thousands of dollars for Dorian’s Miracle. Mayor Allan Fung presented Dorian’s parents, Melissa and Chris, with a key to the city for their son, along with a citation declaring Feb. 28 “DStrong Day.”

On Sunday, a prayer vigil was held for Dorian in Westerly’s Wilcox Park.

In recent days, Dorian’s family announced that his condition had worsened. He was diagnosed with early-stage liver failure, and a trip to visit his grandparents in Florida had to be cut short.

The family, through the “Praying for Dorian” Facebook page, then shared the news so many had feared.

“He is transitioning,” Melissa wrote in her post. “Not sure how long we have, but it seems days is appropriate. Please pray for a pain free and peaceful transition to heaven. Always and forever #dstrong #myhero #myboy #myworld #myson.”

Amid the sadness, there has been positive news demonstrating how enormous Dorian’s impact has been, and will continue to be.

His family announced the creation of the Dorian J. Murray Foundation, which will be the eight-year-old’s “legacy” and keep “his name and the #dstrong movement alive forever.”

The foundation’s mission will be “to bring a level of awareness to pediatric cancer that is impossible to ignore,” according to the family’s announcement.

“We will raise funds to support pediatric cancer research, donating to organizations such as St. Baldrick’s, CureSearch and Dr. [Marc] Keller of [the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia],” the announcement reads. “We will help support the families of diagnosed children by donating to The Tomorrow Fund, and by making direct contributions to families. Our website will offer a wide range of information for newly diagnosed families, including where they can find additional financial and emotional support.”

The foundation’s website remains under construction, and its formal non-profit status pending. Donations are being accepted, however, and may be made out and mailed to the Dorian J. Murray Foundation at PO Box 1225, Westerly RI 02891.

For the millions who have been touched by Dorian’s story, the example of a young boy showing such grace, strength, and optimism in the face of unfathomably unfair circumstances will live on – and continue to serve as a reminder of life’s fragility, wonder, and boundless possibilities.

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