In Memory...

On Monday morning I am doing a reading at my nephew's funeral. Words that are so sad I hoped I would never say them.

My sister-in-law & brother-in-law were expecting their baby to arrive in March; but sadly the wee one was plagued with problems. They found out the baby had Downs Syndrome, which is sad but of course it is a challenge that just has to be met. Unfortunately there were other problems with the baby's heart - including a calcium build up in the left ventricle (which is usually only present in the right ventricle) of the heart (or I may have gotten left & right mixed up). This was only documented 4 times in the US & Canada. Most likely this baby would need an immediate heart transplant upon his birth. If the pregnancy went full term. There was also the potential for brain damage - something that could not be determined during pregnancy.

Sadly, it did not.

The baby was born on Saturday, October 23rd. 23 weeks (I think?). He was named Owen & he lived for only an hour & 40 minutes. He was baptized & his parents were able to hold & cuddle him for that time. He was perfect & beautiful. His heart gave out & he left this world. It was very peaceful.

My heart breaks for his parents. I cannot imagine going through that. I am glad that his passing was peaceful & he didn't have to go through multiple very risky operations, but that doesn't erase the pain of losing a child.

So, we go to the funeral on Monday. To share our love & support; to hug & cry.

And through this all, I hold my own two HEALTHY (if somewhat spirited & sleep challenged) children very very close. I've never hugged anyone so close as these two & smothered them daily with kisses. Yes, indeed, I have a lot to be grateful for.

Comments

Unknown said…
Yes my friend we all have so much to be thankful for. It is so sad to read about the baby boy. Back in 1971 I had a daughter, Catherine Leigh, was born and only lived 5 days and died from dehydration. If it had happened today she would have been saved with our technology but back then the old doctors couldn't really deal with it. So, I know how they feel and how terrible the little casket looked. Painful but we do get better with time.
Odie
Sarita said…
I'm so sorry for your family's loss. Thank you for sharing. It's a good reminder about how lucky we have been. It really does change how you look at every tantrum.
Kate said…
So sorry, Carrie. Will be thinking of all of you at this very sad time.
donna said…
I'm so sorry. Hug those spirited sleep derived children a bit tighter and be thankful. I know I will do the same thing.

Hugs to you.
MamaD4 said…
Oh Carrie. I am so, so sorry for your family's loss. There's a new little star in heaven tonight. May God bring peace to you and those affected.
Nanette said…
I'm so sorry for your family's loss. I can't even begin to imagine.
Meigan said…
Oh Carrie, I'm so sorry to hear this. You're right - we are so blessed with our beautiful & healthy children. I'm glad you can be there for your SIL and BIL.
Test said…
I'm so sorry for the family's loss. My love to you all.

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