Chandler Martin Leonard was my son and my best friend. I have been through a lot in my life, but nothing will ever compare to having to say goodbye to my child. When my brothers came to live with me in 2021, I loved them as my own, and Chandler and I quickly became two peas in a pod. Every day, I was grateful to have them in my life again. When we welcomed Liam, he became Chandler’s best friend, and on October 23rd, we made it official by adopting the boys. Chandler became my son forever, both in my heart and legally.

Nothing hurts more than knowing I couldn’t help my son with the inner struggles that convinced him he wasn’t good enough for this life. I had so much more to teach him, and so much love left to give. I would give up everything to have him here with me. Chandler, you were good enough and loved by everyone who met you. The world was brighter with you in it, and I hope you have found the peace you were seeking. You’ll always be in my heart, my sweet Chandler Martin Leonard. Forever 15 you will be.

On December 23rd, our family experienced a house fire that caused smoke and water damage to all our personal belongings and our house. We are still in the middle of construction and trying to rebuild when we were hit with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Chandler. We are very limited on money after losing everything in the fire, and now we are facing funeral expenses we never could have prepared for. I ask right now that you pray for my family and, if you are able, support us as we try to honor Chandler’s memory and rebuild our lives. Any help you can give will mean the world to us.