My son, Darnel, came into this world with a spirit that was stronger than anything he ever faced. He lived his life on the edge, full of risks, hard lessons, and moments of growth. Some experiences brought joy, while others brought pain, but he always searched for meaning in what he went through. He was my *pitit mizer moun* my child who carried heavy burdens yet still found room in his heart to give.
Diagnosed on the autism spectrum and with ODD, Darnel faced challenges from an early age. At just 15, he was taken from our home and incarcerated, spending eight years behind bars. He endured experiences no child should ever have to survive, yet he never lost his generous heart.
Darnel wasn't a taker—he was a giver. If someone needed help, he gave without hesitation. He was compassionate, loyal, and loved deeply, even while carrying trauma, mental health struggles, and the weight of a system that failed to understand him.
Many judged him by his mistakes, but I knew his heart. I knew the son who loved his family, wanted to do right, and kept trying despite unimaginable obstacles. I am proud of his courage, resilience, and capacity to love in a world that wasn't always kind to him.
I miss his smile, his voice, and simply having him here. Losing Darnel has changed me forever but so has loving him. His legacy is one of strength, compassion, and perseverance. He was my son, my baby.
Posted September 2026