My name is Javonne, and I am writing this with the heaviest heart a mother could ever carry. On September 15th, 2025, my beloved son Steven passed away at just 31 years old—on the very same day he celebrated his 31st birthday.

From the time he was 13 years old, Steven fought a long, exhausting battle with his health after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. As the years went on, his journey became even harder as he faced complication after complication, eventually being diagnosed with end stage renal disease. Because of his pre-existing conditions, life insurance premiums were impossible to get or came at costs far beyond reach, leaving our family without that safety net. Despite all of this, he never let his spirit fade. For the last couple of years, he went to dialysis three times a week, endured countless hospital stays, and faced pain most of us will never truly understand.

But if you knew Steven, you knew he never let his illness define him. He was the heart and soul of our family—the jokester, the one who could make us laugh even in the darkest moments. He had a gift for lifting others up, even when he himself was struggling. That’s who he was: selfless, funny, and full of love.

His passing was sudden and unexpected, and no mother ever imagines having to bury her child. I am humbly asking for help to cover his funeral costs, as I want to give him the service and farewell he so greatly deserves. Any funds left after funeral expenses will go directly to the three little girls who were his entire world—his beautiful twin daughters, just 3 years old, and his oldest daughter, who is 6. They were his pride and joy, and it breaks my heart that they will grow up without their daddy’s presence, though his love will always surround them.

If you are able to give, no matter the amount, please know that you are helping us honor Steven’s life and legacy. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your kindness, compassion, and support during this unbearable time.