Seventeen years ago on this exact day, at precisely 05:53 in the morning, you made your grand entrance into the world. I remember it vividly—I had been standing outside the hospital room since 11:00 PM the previous night, living through every tense, breathless moment of anticipation. You had clearly decided that you were coming on your own terms, and there was simply no stopping you. That fierce, unstoppable drive has never left you; we see it in everything you do today, especially in the water, just like when you swam your heart out in Kenya this last time, leaving everything on the line with every stroke.

When you finally arrived, the atmosphere in the room shifted instantly. There was overwhelming joy and more than a few tears of relief. And when we finally took you home, your mother could not stop smiling—her heart was entirely full. Naturally, everyone who came to visit wanted a turn at carrying you, completely captivated by your newborn presence. 17 A2 was the first place you ever stayed after leaving the hospital, and looking back, it is no wonder that jaja earned the affectionate moniker jaja Nim Nim.

You have always lived up to the profound meaning woven into your very name: Nimaro—I am loved. You are truly, deeply loved, and that has been the constant soundtrack of your life. If Aunt Lily had her way, she would have carried you everywhere so your feet never even had to touch the ground. You were always such an adorable child, endlessly talking, engaging, and greeting everyone you met with a warmth that drew people straight to you.

Over these seventeen years, the world has had the incredible privilege of watching you grow and evolve through every chapter. We watched your early fascination with Lego and intricate puzzles transform into disciplined focus. We cheered as you mastered swimming, welcomed and learned to love your younger sister, dedicated yourself to the piano, and took your first independent turns behind the wheel learning to drive. We have watched you navigate the complex halls of school, steadily forging your path and growing into a capable, grounded young man.

Through every stage, every challenge, and every triumph, our pride in who you are and who you are becoming has only grown deeper.

May blessings follow you wherever your path leads. May our ceilings in life forever be your floor, launching you to heights we have only ever dreamed of.

We are endlessly proud of you, and we love you beyond measure.