Dear Duke Sean,

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Happy 16th birthday, my son.

 

As I sit here, reflecting on this special day, I am struck by the incredible journey that has brought us to this moment. What are the chances, Sean, that your little brother, Prince Alexander, would be born on this very day, 22.08.2024, exactly 16 years after you came into my life? The odds are astronomical, but here we are, bound by fate and love.

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As I think about the past 16 years, I can't help but marvel at the challenges we’ve faced together. I’ve survived 7 high-speed car and motorcycle accidents, fought a relentless 7-year battle against the American family court system to be with you, and overcame obstacles that seemed insurmountable. Through it all, one thing has remained constant—my unwavering love and commitment to you.

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Our journey has been one of struggle, pain, and perseverance, but also of victory, growth, and immense love. The fact that I’ve been blessed with a loving wife who is bringing your little brother into the world today on the 22nd of August 2024, is nothing short of miraculous. This is a 1 in 10 million chance, but it’s a testament to the power of never giving up.

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Sean, if there’s one lesson I want you to take from all of this, it’s that winners never quit. No matter how tough life gets, no matter how many times you’re knocked down, you get back up and keep fighting for what you believe in, for those you love, and for the life you want to live.

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You are a strong, intelligent, and compassionate young man, and I am incredibly proud of the person you are becoming. As you step into this new year of your life, know that you have the power to overcome any challenge, just as we have done together, but unfortunately being ripped apart.

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Today, as you celebrate your 16th birthday, know that you are loved beyond measure. And now, as a big brother, you have the opportunity to share that love and strength with your little brother, Prince Alexander. Together, we will continue to forge a path of greatness, because that's who we are—Schurmanns, a family that never quits.

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In two years, you will be an adult and will have the freedom to make your own decisions and come and visit me to see your little brother and to hear and read the facts of what happened to you. I want you to know that I have always fought for you, and I will continue to do so. I cannot change the past or return the 10 years that have been taken from both of us, but I can promise you that the truth will always be on our side. You deserve to know the facts, and as you grow older, you will come to understand the challenges we’ve faced and the love that has always driven me to bring you back to where you belong.

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It’s important to me that you know I have never abandoned you. I have followed the law for 7 years to ensure that you would be returned to your legal home in Marbella, Spain. The decisions that were made by others were not in your best interest, and my fight has always been to protect you and your future.

 

Know that no matter what happens, I will always be here for you, ready to support and guide you.

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Happy birthday, Sean. Here’s to a year filled with adventure, growth, and the knowledge that anything is possible.

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With all my love and pride,

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Your Dad