Obituary - Stella Stone Blankenship

Born on July 15, 2021, the brightest little light in our universe, Stella Stone Blankenship, is back amongst the stars after an impactful 25 days on this earth. Before Stella left us, she spent her time inspiring a force of love and kindness that brought people together, in spirit, all over the world. She lived her entire life in the NICU of Henrico Doctors Hospital, battling a rare genetic mutation that caused neuromuscular and respiratory challenges. Here, she was compassionately cared for by some of the most lovely people our family has ever met. They showed us that Stella's life had purpose by constantly reminding us of the impact she was making on all who came into contact with her. This same sentiment was echoed over and over by so many of our friends, family and complete strangers who showered us with their kind words and prayers. Although Stella was unable to communicate through voice or movement, she made her contributions by spreading her light, and her lessons, through her spirit. Maybe this is why her impact spread so far and wide, as she, in her tiny body, had the power to touch so many with her connection through the universe.

Stella's days were spent being loved on by her devoted parents, Erika and Travis Blankenship, who took every opportunity to care for her, hope for her, and simply be with her. Stella "told" them she knew who they were by squeezing their fingers extra tight, and staring right back into their eyes as they spoke messages of love, hope, and acceptance. Stella's powerful force of love opened up parts of Erika and Travis they never knew existed. She taught them unimaginable love.

Stella was a true warrior. She amazed her medical team and family with her will to fight and the strides she made. However, on August 8th, 2021, Stella let us know that it was time for her to go to a more peaceful place, free of pain. Sweet Stella left us while snuggled in the loving arms of her parents and surrounded by all the other people who love her the most: Paternal grandparents, Ron and Denise Blankenship (Southwest, Va.); Maternal grandparents, Doug and Kelly Powell (Richmond Va.); Aunts, Amanda Richardson (Jason)(Southwest Va.) and Liz Powell (Richmond, Va.); and Uncle, Chris Powell (Richmond, Va.). Stella is also survived by her great-grandparents, Nancy Trohaugh (Waynesboro, Va.), and Jack and Wilma Jean Blankenship (Southwest, Va.) and a large, loving family of aunts, uncles and cousins. Stella's first cousin, Ava, was especially looking forward to meeting her and welcoming her into the family.

Stella was named after nature and we are all comforted by the fact that she is flowing freely back amongst the stars, without pain. We offer a huge, heartfelt thanks to all our friends and family, and the NICU team who generously shared their love and support to help us navigate this difficult journey. We will be having an intimate family celebration of Stella's life and know the rest of you will be there with us in spirit. If you want to help Stella continue to make an impact, memorial donations may be made in her name to the March of Dimes NICU Family Support Program, or the National Organization for Rare Diseases (NORD).

Keep shining your bright light, Stella Stone. May you always feel the immense love that surrounds you. We will all be looking for you in the stars.