06/05/2026
Today is a day of immense pride, deep reflection, and a milestone we always envisioned but have to mark a little differently. Today, our sweet Sarah Jayne would have graduated from high school alongside the Westminster High School Class of 2026.
Thirteen years ago, when Sarah was a vibrant five-year-old kindergartener at Mechanicsville Elementary, we lost her to sepsis. The hole left in our hearts never goes away, but we made a promise that her name, her spirit, and her kindness would never be forgotten.
Because this is the year Sarah should have been walking across that stage, last night’s Senior Awards Night was incredibly monumental for our family. To truly mark this milestone and ensure her light continues to shine, Sarah's Cause did something extra special with some funds raised from the last two MD Fundraisers; we awarded 5 distinct Sarah Jayne Orton Memorial Scholarships to 5 incredible seniors- Delaney Johnson, Allison Gill, Corrine Michael, Lily Easter & Lila Moxley.
Some of these graduates shared a playground sandbox with Sarah all those years ago; others learned her name for the first time last night. To all five recipients: you represent the future Sarah didn't get to live, and you embody the spark, potential, and heart she possessed. By carrying a piece of her legacy forward, you are now woven into her story, and she is a part of yours.
To the entire Class of 2026—and to everyone holding space for our girl today—remember to live fully, love fiercely, and celebrate every single milestone.
Congratulations to the graduates. We love you and miss you every day, Sarah.