MANCHESTER, NH — It was the dying wish heard round the world, when Dorian Murray told his dad he wanted to be famous in China before his young life ended.
From there the hashtag #DStrong emerged, making the Rhode Island 8-year-old known far beyond the boundaries of his small state. His dad, Chris Murray, a Stonington, CT, police officer, did all that he could to honor his son’s last wish.
Dorian died March 8 of the rare cancer that he battled for more than half his life, but not before messages of hope and goodwill poured in from all around the world, including China, fulfilling Dorian’s wish, beyond measure.
On Wednesday, Manchester Police Chief Nick Willard added to the many touching online tributes, offering this:
Today the world lost a wonderful little soul. Dorian Murray wanted to be famous before he died while fighting courageously against the cancer he was diagnosed with. The Manchester Police Department wanted to help Dorian on his mission to be famous by making him Chief of Police for a day. A police shield was specifically made for Dorian for his big day as chief, but before he could wear his shield, he passed away peacefully with his loved ones by his side. We were heartbroken at the news today of his passing. In Dorian’s honor, Chief Willard wore his badge, while carrying with him Dorian’s official Manchester Police ID card and his name plate. Dorian’s shield will be officially retired at the end of the chief’s shift, and his name tag placed honorably in the chief’s office. Please keep Dorian’s loved ones in your hearts and prayers.
The family announced Tuesday morning that they have launched a foundation in Dorian’s honor to assist families dealing with pediatric cancer, including where they can find additional financial and emotional support.