My sweet Sydney,
I feel so incredibly fortunate to have been a small part of your life. I remember you were born the same day I left for college. Ba Ngoai, my mom, and I were the first ones to hold you at the hospital right before I headed to the airport to fly across the country. To have held you on your first day of life, to being with you over your last couple days is something I will always hold so close to my heart.
Your laughter was contagious, your kindness sincere, and your heart impossibly gentle and pure. Whether through your silliness that made us laugh or your playful suspiciousness that made us smile, you brought brightness wherever you went. Though your soul was sweet and tender, you were relentlessly strong. You were a fighter in every sense of the word. You faced your challenges with quiet courage and resilience that inspired us all in the family.
I will always cherish the moments we had together. I got to do your hair before Ben & Thuy’s banquet wedding, and we even planned out your dress together. We had a big cousin sleepover when Dylan & Nolan had their tournament in Vegas, and I got to do your nails in your favorite color with your favorite nail polish. We got to dress up your labubus. We even got to run a 5k together. Von and I will also never forget how you always batted a suspicious eye at him. And I’ll remember and keep all the little conversations we’ve had close to my heart. I will never forget your quirky laugh or your gentle little hugs. I wish I could’ve continued to be the big cousin/big sister I could’ve been for you.
My greatest hope is that you knew how utterly loved and cherished you were. You were so deeply loved, Sydney. I hope that all your wishes came true. I hope that you had the time of your life at Enhypen. I hope that you got to try all the foods your heart (and tummy) desired while you could. Your spirit, your laugh, and your gentle soul lives on through your memories.
This year has been filled with more grief and heartbreak for our family than I could’ve ever imagined. From losing Ba Ngoai to your diagnosis. My heart has never ached so deeply the way it has for you, Ut Phương, Cau Vu, Dylan, and Nolan. The pain unimaginably unbearable. A part of me is so relieved you don’t have to go through any more medications or needles. Another part of me is at peace because I know Ba Ngoai is taking great care of you and you’re the first of us to see her and be with her again. But every part of me will always miss you and hold you in my heart forever.
You could never, ever be replaced. But I promise I will always be there for your parents, Dylan, and Nolan. I had only wished to show you the love that Ut Phương and Cau Vu showed me when I was younger.
I hope you’re roaming the streets of Tokyo and racking up all the gachapons right now, just like you’ve always wanted to.
You will always be in our hearts. You’re constantly on my mind and in my thoughts. And you’ll live forever in our memories.
I love you so much, Sydney. And I’ll love you forever. 🕊️💕
Love always,
Chi Vy