Born during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic (11/2/2020), Derrick Stone Bowerman was a healthy, joyful baby whose spirit radiated warmth and strength. In just a short time, Derrick brought immeasurable love and light into the world. He was sweet, silly, and strong, already rolling over both ways at only one month old. Tummy time became a cherished bonding ritual between Derrick and his mother, Alexandria Bowerman, who now serves as the Deputy Executive Director of Together We Thrive as well as the Founder and CEO of her own nonprofit, Derrick Stone Safe Sleep.
Derrick passed away just one day shy of two months old while in the care of a family member. A minor, unfamiliar with safe sleep practices, placed Derrick to sleep on an adult bed with his head on a pillow. Tragically, he rolled off the pillow and suffocated on the mattress. This was a preventable loss that changed everything.
In Alexandria’s words: “Derrick has taught me more than I ever had the chance to teach him.” His death exposed a painful truth, safe sleep is not intuitive. It goes against our instincts, and too many families are left unaware of the real risks associated with unsafe sleep environments.
Through this unimaginable loss, Alexandria has transformed her grief into purpose. She has dedicated her life to safe sleep education, advocacy, and prevention—ensuring that other families are informed, empowered, and supported. Together We Thrive stands alongside Derrick Stone Safe Sleep, a movement born out of love to raise awareness and eliminate the risks of sleep-related infant death.
Derrick’s legacy is one of light. He was—and remains—his mother’s “sonshine,” and through him, we carry forward a mission that will help families everywhere grow stronger, safer, and more informed. His light will continue to shine through the work we do.
Together We Thrive, Inc. 