In April 2023, at just two years old, Hallie Kyed was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Her father, Doug Kyed, an NFL reporter for the Boston Herald, shared the heartbreaking news of her passing on January 21, 2024, after a brave nine-month battle. Hallie was only two years old when she lost her life.

Doug revealed that Hallie’s condition worsened after a relapse following a bone marrow transplant. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, it became ineffective. “On Sunday morning, Hallie passed away peacefully in her sleep while Jen and I held her hands in bed,” Doug wrote. “Without Hallie, we’re devastated and completely lost. Our lives will never be the same again.”

He described his daughter as a “special kid,” noting how she left a lasting impact on so many people despite her young age. “Olivia was lucky to have the best little sister, and we were so fortunate to be her parents,” Doug reflected.

The family had spent precious time together in the hospital, clinging to the hope that Hallie might achieve remission. Hallie’s nine-month fight with acute myeloid leukemia and its many complications showed her remarkable courage and resilience. However, after her relapse, Doug admitted that the prognosis was poor, despite their hopes for a miracle.

Hallie began trial treatments, but unfortunately, the aggressive nature of her leukemia became unstoppable. “Chemotherapy after the transplant didn’t work,” Doug explained. Still, he expressed his gratitude to the medical team at Boston Children’s Hospital, saying, “They did everything they could to help Hallie. She fought AML every single day for over nine months.”

He recounted tender moments with Hallie, like when she would call out “DADDDDYYY” to go for walks around the hospital or pat his back when he took her out of her crib. Doug described Hallie as his “koala baby,” “Sour Patch Kid,” and “Hallie Bear,” with a personality that was both hilarious and captivating. She had a love for dressing up, often keeping the hospital staff guessing which princess outfit she would wear that day.

Doug hopes that, through their grief, people can learn something from Hallie’s life. “She taught us to be persistent in asking for what we want, whether it’s a walk, a car ride, or wearing a Disney dress (usually Cruella),” Doug wrote. Despite the sadness, he shared, “The world is a worse place without Hallie in it.”

Doug’s love for his daughter was evident in his final words: “I will miss kissing her head, petting her hair, and telling her how much I love her. Hallie forever.”

The family will lay Hallie to rest on January 26, and their hearts are in the thoughts and prayers of everyone during this incredibly difficult time.