Elephants...Bach...and a Sweet Baby Angel

Wednesday baby *J* went to be with the angels in heaven. He was born early but he sure was a fighter from what I've heard from Jess. He was transferred to Children's Mercy Hospital 3.5 months ago...and that is the day Jess starting falling in love and taking care of that little boy. His parents were told that he probably wouldn't make it, but you know what...he lived a little over 6 months. He went downhill about two months ago but pulled through. He was such a trooper. And regardless of the tubes coming out of him he managed to laugh and entertain his mom, dad, and the nurses that took care of him.

I heard one of his favorite things were these two elephants that his parents bought him to put on his mobile. Every time these little elephants made their way into his view he would smile this HUGE smile. He also LOVED the Bach song that came on. Jess didn't mind working 4 shifts a week (almost 50 hours) because she got to spend the day with this little guy and his family.

Wednesday little *J* passed away. His body just couldn't fight anymore. His parents showed so much grace that day. They allowed numerous friends and family to come and hold their son. Love on him. Kiss him. Talk to him. Say goodbye to him. And then they spent time alone with him. I cannot imagine the strength that day took for these two loving parents.

Today Jess is at baby *J*'s funeral. She drove an hour north to attend. I really hope that she is able to stay in contact with his parents. By telling this...I am hoping that (1) everyone out there prays for their continued strength and perseverance. (2) prays for baby *J*'s peace. (3) holds your children tight today for them. (4) prays that someday baby *J* sends his parents a big fat overdue little chunky monkey that goes home from the hospital after 24 hours and lives happily ever after. I also tell you this because I amazed by the strength of his parents AND the strength of the three nurses that took care of him around the clock. The three nurses that worked this final week of his life and vowed to be there in his final moments. I want to say how proud I am to be married to such a wonderful, compassionate, loving, devoted woman.

I heard these stories about baby *J* from Jess. I never met him. I did however laugh at the stories. Get to know the little guy. I made signs for his 5 month birthday and his 6 month birthday for his bedspace at the NICU. And I cried in the final week of his inspiring little life. I am so glad that he was in our lives even if his time here was cut way to short!



-K-