In September 2024, Liz’s world changed forever when Taio was diagnosed with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD), a rare and devastating genetic disease that attacks the nervous system. From that moment on, life moved painfully fast. Taio declined rapidly, and Liz was suddenly living in a reality she never imagined she would face.

Eight weeks ago, completely out of the blue, Taio stopped breathing. He was rushed to the hospital and spent a long, terrifying stay in the ICU, fully ventilated. Doctors prepared her for the worst and did not believe he would ever come off the ventilator. But Taio, in true Taio fashion, fought with everything he had. Against the odds, he came off the vent. Even more incredibly, he made it home.

Taio had three precious days at home, surrounded by love, comfort, and family. He passed peacefully, held close by his mom, his six siblings, and his auntie. Though our hearts are shattered, we are grateful he was not alone and that he was wrapped in love until his final breath.

Liz, is a devoted mother of seven who has given everything she has to her children, especially through this unimaginable journey. No parent should ever have to plan a goodbye for their child. We are asking for help to ease this burden and to raise funds to make Taio’s day as special as he is — to give him the beautiful send-off he deserves.

Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward honoring Taio’s life and supporting his family during this heartbreaking time. Your kindness will help create a farewell filled with love, dignity, and remembrance.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking the time to read Taio’s story. Any amount donated is deeply appreciated by Taio’s mom and her entire family. Your support, prayers, and compassion mean more than words can express.

Thank you for helping us honor a beautiful boy who touched so many lives