Monday, March 24, 2008
Happy Birthday
Dear Miss K,
One year ago today, your Mommy and Daddy were anticipating your arrival. They knew it would be any day now, as you were a bit "late" by your EDD. It was a joyous time of watching and waiting.
Things at my house, however, were not so joyful. In fact, the day before, my little boy had accidentally jumped up and bumped me in the nose. The pain startled me and I began to cry. I knew I was probably not looking at the best birthday weekend ever when it took me four hours, my mom coming over from Tampa, and two Ativan to stop crying. With one round of chemo to go, I was physically and emotionally spent, and not too confident that I'd see another birthday.
My family had a party for me that afternoon. As people were heading out, all I could think about was going to bed. Then your Daddy called. You were on your way.
NOTHING was going to stop me from being there. My sister and I hopped in the car and drove the hour to meet your Mommy and Daddy at the birthing center.
In the next hours, as you and Mommy worked so well and bravely to welcome you to the world, you gave me a gift. For one brief and shining evening, I wasn't a cancer patient. I was a doula and a friend. Your arrival reminded me that life goes on, no matter what.
My mother says that this picture with you is the only picture of me smiling my "real" smile during my season of walking through the valley. The timing of your birth was perfect, and I like to think that as the angels kissed you and sent you on your way to meet Mommy and Daddy, they whispered, "Carry hope", and you did. Thank you.
Miss K, may you have a wonderful birthday and continue to bring your family as much joy in the future as you have every day since your arrival.
Happy, happy birthday.
Love,
Miss Heather
To Trevor over at Laurie's:
Dear Trevor,
Happy Birthday to You! Thank you for being a friend to my son and helping him find his smile in the middle of a storm.
We love your sense of humor, your intelligence, and your all-around boyishness. Know that we're holding you in our heart today, even if we can't be there to celebrate with you.
Love,
Mrs. N and the whole Gang
Name:
3 Comments:
Heather - I am utterly speechless right now. Your post was beautiful and it touched me deeply. I'll have to see if I can get un- tongue-tied, though I know I'm going to be teary-eyes all day. I'd love to get together next week - I'll be in touch.
Miss K wasn't the only baby you helped into the world in the midst of your battle. When you were at my side with J-boy you still thought your tumor was a fluke and that you probably just needed to monitor things for a while. I will never forget you showing us your scar - I think you still had your staples! That is what I call a dedicated dula!
HEY! Did you hear we called?? We wanted to wish you a happy birthday too... tough trip south. Would love to chat with you over a cup of tea :-)
Love you,
Laurie
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