It is with deep sadness that we must announce the passing of our forever hero, Keian Grainger Blundell. At 9:15 pm on New Years Day, Keian left our loving embrace to lead the stars and show them how to truly shine. Even the smallest star shines in darkness; this was especially evident during his courageous 18 month battle with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Keian was diagnosed just over a month after his brother, Joren was born. Coincidently, it was Joren who was the perfect donor for a crucial bone marrow transplant. We will be eternally grateful to Joren for giving us the most precious gift of all - time with Keian. In Keian’s own words; “Joren will always be my hero”

In some respect, Keian was a typical 6 year old boy. He loved building Lego masterpieces, humiliating Daddy at video games or saving the day with his many action figures. He enjoyed playing soccer and numerous other sports, riding his ATV or bike, making snowmen and most of all the Christmas season. Keian’s name is defined as “ancient” and he was an old soul indeed. He could easily set aside his toys to bake, enjoy gardening or make Mommy breakfast in bed. He was extremely passionate in supporting and comforting others. For the last 2 years, with the help of family and friends, Keian donated toys to the children at BC Children’s Hospital and Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, as he felt it was very important for those that could not return home for the holidays to share in the holiday magic. The day we were told Keian’s Leukemia was incurable, he made sure that Mommy, who was rightfully upset, had a blanket, pillow and water for comfort. His outlook was unrelenting; “I’ll just keep fighting”.

While at Canuck Place, Keian was extremely enthusiastic about crafting. There were times he would spend full days in the craft room, sometimes even staying up at night with the nurses drawing, colouring and creating masterpieces. He loved making presents for Mommy and Daddy to show his love and adoration; he knew we loved everything that he made that came from his heart. There are so many words that can be used to describe Keian. Selfless, courageous, creative, compassionate, inspirational; he embodied each and every one of these. His bright light may have left this world, but he also taught us to keep reaching for the stars.

“When the sun goes down and the lights burn out
Then it’s time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are”

With support that stretched across the world, we were able to devote every waking moment to provide support and strength to Keian throughout his treatment, while keeping our family together as much as possible. This was compounded by the positive attitude and extraordinary strength that was continuously shown by Keian, both in life and during his battle. He would often refer to the hospital as a hotel. We will be forever grateful to friends, families and those whom we may never know, for their past and continued generosity. We are thankful to the wonderful staff at both BC Children’s Hospital and Canuck Place Children’s Hospice for their support, guidance and compassion. They understand the need for family togetherness, which was extremely important to our family.

Keian will watch over his mother Chantal, his father Ryan, his little brother Joren (his little Joreo), Grandma (Yvonne), Grandpa (Gary), Gramps (Paul) and Grandpa (Tom), until the time comes for us to be together forever. Nana (Bonnie) was waiting to welcome Keian into heaven. Keian will be dearly missed and will be remembered for his contagious smile and laughter by many family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, in honour of Keian.