Theodore "Teddy" Cardoza was born on July 14, 2023. He passed away suddenly but peacefully at home while surrounded by his parents and sister on June 14, 2024.

Teddy was diagnosed prenatally with a genetic condition called trisomy 13. His family was told he was “incompatible with life,” and wouldn’t survive more than a few hours or days. His parents saw what a strong boy he was and refused to listen to the doctors who denied him medical care. They knew their time with Teddy (whose name means "God's gift") would be limited, but they made the most of every day and advocated to get him the best care possible. Teddy fought for 11 wonderful months before succumbing to his many medical struggles. Despite his short time on earth, he forever changed the hearts and minds of his loved ones and his medical team. He proved to everyone around him that he was without a doubt compatible with life, love, and joy.

Teddy loved hearing his big sister laugh and being silly, always smiling when he heard her voice. He lit up when enjoying a beautiful day outdoors, looking around and listening to the birds. He loved looking at lights and bright colors, listening to music, and playing with his mommy and daddy’s faces. He enjoyed his calming musical aquarium and snuggling with his lovies. He most of all loved to be snuggled and held by his daddy and mommy, instantly calming whenever they picked him up. He smiled whenever they kissed his little cheeks. He was happiest at home, being cared for by his parents, grandparents, and caring nurses. While he spent much of his life in the hospital, he was never alone even for a minute. One of his parents was by his side 24/7 when he was in the hospital. He was surrounded by so much love every moment. His family finds peace in the knowledge that he is waiting for them in Heaven, fully healed, free from all his earthly pain and struggles.

Theodore will be remembered as a tough fighter, with the sweetest, happiest personality. His life, though brief, taught his family and all those around him the meaning of sacrifice and unconditional love. And he taught his medical team to treat all babies as people, not as a diagnosis. The full impact of his life will never be fully realized until we meet him again in Heaven.

Theodore is survived by his loving parents, Anthony and Christina; his beloved big sister Abigail; his grandparents: Cathy, Mike, Gricelda & Miguel; his aunts and uncles: Michael & Christine, Joseph & Rachel M.; Miguel & Rachel C., Yasmin & Fransico; and his dear cousins: Michael & Vince; Noah, Victoria & Leah. Theodore's precious spirit will forever resonate in their hearts.

A Celebration of Life for Theodore will take place on June 22, 2024 at 10:30 am at the Beck-Givnish Funeral Home in Levittown, PA.

To continue the work Theodore began in his life, a fund has been established in his honor to raise awareness about trisomy 13. His family has begun plans to send information, help, and support to encourage parents who receive this heartbreaking diagnosis. They wish to make everyone aware that trisomy 13 IS compatible with life, love, and joy, and that every child is worth fighting for. A trisomy 13 diagnosis is not a death sentence, and every child, regardless of their condition, deserves the same level of love and care. His family hopes to use Teddy’s story to encourage and to help change the minds of many. Please consider making a donation in lieu of flowers to further this cause: www.everloved.com/life-of/the…

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/theodore-cardoza/obituary/

Copy