Our family is heartbroken to share the passing of Carsten, at just 21 years old. He was silly, creative, and endlessly kind. Carsten had a unique personality that he showed through his love for art, video games, his sister Tatum, and every cat he ever met—especially his Gracee girl. He loved to express himself through his unique style, always finding comfort and confidence in the alternative fashion he loved.

Carsten was only 7 years old when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. He became very sick very quickly, and when his blood sugar reached 508, he was taken to the children’s hospital where our lives changed forever. From that point on, he faced a reality that most children never have to know. He learned to navigate daily shots, tried the pump multiple times, and carried the weight of a disease that affected every part of his life. Even through the struggle, he tried to hold onto the things that made him feel like himself.

In the months before he passed, his health declined sharply. He developed neuropathy in his feet, legs, hands, and arms. His vision faded until even glasses couldn’t help him see the world the way he used to. He lived with symptoms every single day, and despite his strength, the complications of Type 1 diabetes became too much for his body.

One of the few moments of comfort we had after his passing was learning that Carsten chose to be an organ donor. Honoring that choice, he was able to give five vital organs—his heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver—to help save others. His pancreas, which had failed him, was donated for research to help future families facing this disease. Even in the end, he was giving to others.

We are raising funds to help with Carsten’s memorial, cremation, remaining medical bills, and any additional costs our family may face as we grieve the loss of a son and a brother.

When Carsten was born, his sister Tatum was only five. She prayed every night for a baby brother, believing she was praying for anyone who might come into her life. But now, looking back, we realize she wasn’t just praying for a brother—she was praying for him. For Carsten. For the boy who became her best friend from the moment she met him.

Carsten was deeply loved, and losing him has left a space in our lives that can never be filled. We are grateful for every message, donation, and share, and for everyone who holds our family in their thoughts during this time.