“I Love You, Because You Never Know” — Remembering Mason Holmes

“I love you, because you never know.”

Those were words 11-year-old Mason said often. Whether he was leaving for school or simply going outside to play with friends, he made sure his loved ones knew how he felt about them. They were simple words that captured so much of who Mason was and how deeply he loved.

Mason was a truly special child. He was bright, funny, and insightful, with a silly, goofy side and a sense of humor that made anyone laugh. He loved God, his family, his friends, riding his bike, making funny videos, playing PC games, and watching anime.

Mason was full of life, even as he spent his entire childhood fighting Sickle Cell Disease. Through hospital stays, surgeries, pain, and setbacks, he showed incredible courage and resilience while still finding reasons to laugh, dream, and enjoy being a kid.

Mason had big dreams. He wanted to become a doctor when he grew up and help heal other chronically ill children. He also wanted to write a book and was already looking into taking the steps he needed to become a published author.

Mason’s unexpected passing has left his family and everyone who loved him heartbroken. He was a beloved son, brother, family member, and friend, but the love for Mason reached far beyond his family and friends. His teachers and school community loved him. People at his community center loved him. The doctors and nurses who cared for him came to know and love him too. Mason touched so many lives simply by being himself, and his absence is felt deeply by all who had the blessing of knowing him.

At the center of Mason’s world was his mother, Shahri, who also fights the lifelong battle of Sickle Cell Disease. Because of this, their bond was one that few others could understand. They faced the pain and challenges of Sickle Cell Disease together, and Shahri cared for and advocated for Mason every step of the way, all while managing her own illness. She was his mother, his caretaker, and his biggest advocate. Now Shahri is facing a task no mother should ever have to face: laying her 11-year-old son to rest.

We are asking for your help in surrounding Shahri and her family with love and support during this devastating time. Donations will help cover Mason’s funeral and memorial expenses and ease some of the financial burden on Shahri as she grieves her son, handles expenses associated with his loss, and continues managing her own health. Any amount you are able to give is sincerely appreciated, and if you cannot donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping Shahri and her family in your prayers.

Mason gave so much love in his short 11 years, and he always made sure to say it:

“I love you, because you never know.”

We will carry those words and our sweet Mason with us always.