I went back and forth on whether or not to share this moment of what must be the deepest kind of despair this world can throw at you. My friend and my best client for years was so happy just the day before this nightmare. We texted back and forth all day about the maternity session we were planning for the following week. Which dress should she wear? Can we try this or that pose? Can you do a composite and put us in a forest.... The only emotion in the air was joyous anticipation. That very night, her husband called me sobbing at 1:00am and told me that for some unknown reason, 8 healthy months into the pregnancy, the baby died - just a few days before Christmas. They asked if I could come to the hospital and photograph the baby and capture their experience with him because they wanted to honor his place in their lives, and they never wanted to forget him. We all cried buckets the whole time they had their precious time together to say good-bye. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done, and the grief stayed with me for such a long time - even still I feel like crying remembering it.
The good news is, there is much joy in this momma’s life. She is the mother of the twins that won 1st place in the Symmetry challenge, and two older boys. She has been very open about sharing her story and has helped others who have gone through this.
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What a heartbreaking story and what an emotional image. Although non of her children will ever replace this baby, at least she has the joy of having children.
Congrats
This image makes me cry. I can't believe such a sad thing could happen and I am sure it does. It devastates me to image this life that will never be and the soul of this poor woman to bare such a loss. :'(
I almost can't look at this image, Sandy.
I hope they have (or have had) another baby since then.
I totally understand, Lydia. That’s why I hesitated to share it. But my friend has been very open about sharing her story. She’s been a big help for others having gone through this.
The good news is… yes… she has other children. She is the mother of the twins that won a blue ribbon in the Symmetry challenge.
Heart-breaking, Sandy. Just reading the story brings tears to the eyes. It was very brave of you to do this photo shoot. The ribbon is well deserved. (Should have been blue.)
I'll Wait For You in Heaven
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