2007-04-05

Blizzard Baby


Most of you did not know that MrMaple and I were expecting again. That Valentine blizzard , and snow day at home, brought us a blessing. Unfortunately, we learned during an ultrasound yesterday that our little one was not growing and her/his heart had stopped beating just shy of nine weeks.

We have been through this before, but it does not make it any easier. I had made room in my heart for this little soul, and starting looking towards their November arrival. I don't know if it was the thought of this child being created on a day that celebrates love, or while snowed in all cozy at home in front of the fire, that made this baby seem particularly magical.

Regardless, in the spirit of "good grief," MrMaple and I will yet again participate in the March of Dimes WalkAmerica. If you are so inclined, you can sponsor our walk here. Your monetary help, no matter how small, can truly make a difference in the life of a baby. Consider this:
  • $100 could help 10 families with babies in neonatal intensive care learn how to care for their baby when he/she comes home.
  • $760 could provide prenatal care classes for 15 pregnant women.
  • $3,800 could fund a program to help 180 pregnant women quit smoking.
  • $150,000 could provide a research grant to study malfunctioning genes responsible for many birth defects.
  • $482,700 could provide a multi-year grant to study variations in genes of mothers and babies that might trigger premature birth.
I'd like to send a shout out to the wonderful Moms on the BabyCenter "November 07 Thankfuls" board. You ladies have been a wonderful source of support as we all wade through expecting November babies together after a previous loss. I will miss being your moderator, but I wish you all a happy and healthy nine months.

Lastly, I'd like to thank my husband for being there, loving me, even when I push you away. Your love makes it possible for me to see beyond this pain, and celebrate the wonderful family and home we have together. I love you.

7 comments:

Vinny said...

Mama-

I will never understand why folks with such love in their hearts should have to bear such incredible sorrow. I only know that, because of who YOU are, these little ones live on in ways that only you and Mr. Maple could make possible.

God bless you and Mr. We here in Bernies World have you in our thoughts even more today than on any other day.

That's saying something.

Missing you.

Bernie

MapleMama said...

Thank you so very much Vinny for your kind words and warm thoughts. They are most appreciated. Missing you too!

post-doc said...

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. When I have been in bad places, you've always said the right thing. I very much wish I could offer the same here, but I can't come up with anything meaningful. My thoughts are with you and yours.

MapleMama said...

Katie, your thoughts are more than enough. Thank you so much, and know that I hope you are well.

Kris Underwood said...

All I can do is offer my condolences for your loss. It sounds a bit hollow typing it out, but know that it is heart-felt.

The Contessa said...

I loev you and I am som kind of losr ( three dimensional ) to have missed this post!

I'm heart broken for you and Mr MAple and I can't agree more with Vinny. He said it perfectly.

You were mother to us so many times throughout the years and you were so amazingly good at it.

I thank God that Mini Maple has come into your lives. God truly has amazing plans for you.

Only you could have a child so amazing and so special that God wanted it back so soon.

Just know that you and your family, while always in my thoughts and prayers, will be getting some extra TLC from me.

We love you here - and are missing you so much! A big huge virtual hug from me, head butts and purrs from my boys...

Loev, Wolfi, Bandit and of course - The contessa.

Unknown said...

I am so sorry for your loss. I obviously am way behind in my blog reading. I know what it's like to struggle with unanswered questions. I hope you are finding comfort in other ways.