Happy 17th Birthday, to My Baby Brother: One Step Closer to Being United

Today, my baby brother Jayden turns 17. It’s a milestone that carries so much weight—not just for him, but for me too. Seventeen years old. Eleven years since the last birthday I spent with him. Eleven years of missing moments, milestones, and memories that should have been ours to share.

The last time I celebrated Jayden’s birthday with him, he was six years old. I can still picture his bright smile and the way his laughter filled the room. We played games, ate cake, and made memories that I’ve held onto tightly ever since. At six, he was full of curiosity and joy—qualities I know are still a part of him today, even if I haven’t had the privilege of witnessing them firsthand over the years.

The years apart have been some of the hardest of my life. Not being able to see him grow, to be there for him during important moments, or even just to hear about his day has left an ache that never truly fades. But despite the distance and the time lost, my love for Jayden has never wavered. He’s always been in my heart, and not a day goes by when I don’t think about him and hope for the day we can be reunited.

Seventeen feels significant because it’s one step closer to the future—a future where Jayden can make his own choices and decide what he wants for himself. While I don’t know when that day will come or what it will look like, I hold onto the hope that we’re moving closer to it with every passing year.

Jayden, if you’re reading this- Happy birthday my baby. You are loved beyond measure, and I am so proud of you—proud of your strength, your resilience, and the incredible person I know you’ve become. Even though we’ve been apart for so long, I carry you with me every single day. You are my light in dark times and my reminder to keep fighting for what matters most.

I hope today brings you joy and reminds you of how special you are—not just to me but to everyone lucky enough to know you. And while I may not be there to celebrate with you in person, know that I’m celebrating in spirit—thinking of you, loving you, and holding onto the belief that we’ll reunited one day soon.

Happy 17th birthday, little one. One step closer to tomorrow—and one step closer to us being together again.

With all my love always,

Your big sis,

Kylie