giving back.

My heart is full of emotion as I type this evening. Let me start from the beginning. In early 2004 we anxiously announced our first pregnancy, only to have to reveal with solemn hearts that our little one had gone to heaven. We were given many thoughtful cards and gifts during this time, one was a small charm from my mom, with the date engraved on it. As awful as this time was for us, I know for certain that the Lord had a plan in motion, and I look back now realizing if it hadn’t been for that miscarriage, we would not have our sweet Danny boy today. The most difficult thing we have dealt with as parents thus far was an evening just after Christmas 2004, when Danny, at 3 weeks of age was rushed from Mt. Diablo ER, to John Muir ER, and finally to Children’s Hospital Oakland NICU. He was having difficulty breathing, as doctor after doctor pondered the cause. We were completely helpless as our tiny, precious son lay tangled in breathing tubes and IVs. Again, the Lord was faithful and we were able to take him home the following day, completely well and healthy. In a box I have mementos from his life, and in the bottom lay the tiniest hospital gown you have ever seen. It is orange and fit his 9 lb body just perfectly. I treasure it, for it is tangible proof that the Lord answers prayer. Since that time, I have wanted to give back, to be of help to other families who have experienced loss and/or the scary environments of our nation’s NICUs. I have searched and prayed for an opportunity, and today, in the midst of an already emotional afternoon I came across my answer. Heavenly Angels In Need (link can be found to the right). This is a wonderful online resource for families in grief and in need. I have been in contact with the founder and have decided to begin crocheting little blankets for these precious babies and their families. I urge you to take a look at their website, and to help in any way. In closing I would like to share this quote which truly brought my ambitions into play.

I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can share to any fellow creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass through this way again. -Stephen Grellet