Dorian Murray, who wanted to be famous in China, dies

Dorian Murray and his family on Facebook. [Photo/Asianewsphoto.com]

Dorian Murray, the 8-year-old boy from Rhode Island with terminal cancer who told his father he wanted to be famous in China and then captured the hearts of people in China and around the world, died late Tuesday night.

His death was announced on the Praying for Dorian Facebook page, which had documented his struggle and on social media with the hashtag "#dstrong".

"It is with a very heavy heart that I share this news. Dorian J. Murray (#DStrong) has gained his beautiful angel wings tonight and is now pain free," Kathryn Thomas, a close friend of the Murray family posted on Facebook just after 11 p.m. "He was surrounded by people who love him and his transition to heaven was very peaceful. He was embraced by both mom and dad."

Thomas wrote that the family is asking for "privacy and respect" as they grieve:

"We would like to ask for privacy and respect at this time. The family has been through so much heart ache and a devastating loss. Please please respect our privacy at this time. Thank you. God Bless."

Dorian, of Westerly, Rhode Island, was diagnosed with a rare and untreatable form of pediatric cancer when he was 4. After cancer cells spread to his spine and brain a few months ago, he and his family decided to stop his chemotherapy treatment so he could enjoy the time he had left.

Dorian had told his father he wanted to be famous in China before he went to heaven. His father, Chris, a police officer in Stonington, Connecticut, posted the wish on Dorian's Facebook page, urging people to use the hashtag #DStrong. It spread across the globe.

Adults and children responded with photos and well wishes, and #DStrong became a trending topic on social media. It especially took off in China, where people sent photos of themselves on the Great Wall holding signs reading #DStrong. Dorian and his family also received invitations to travel to China, but declined due to his health.