Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Mother's Day

Today is Mother’s Day. For many women, it’s a day that’s not at all how it should be. Before you read today’s letters, please take a moment to hold in your heart, all the women trying to survive this day without one or more of their children.

*If you are a loss mom, please be sure to read to the end. There's a special letter, just for you <3.

For this project, we have been posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we’ve posted more of the letters we’ve received for these beautiful mamas.

If you just learned of this project, you can always participate by simply commenting below with a note to the special loss mama in your life. Be sure to let her know where she can find your note!

To read all the letters, click HERE.

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To Dorothy Fernandez, Mother to Christian and Savannah

(Submitted by Priscilla Fernandez)

To my courageous and beautiful daughter. How I wish to have had the power to take away your pain and sorrow. How happy and elated were you the day you told us you were pregnant. How we shop for maternity clothes and plan for what was not meant to be. I wish you never had to break the news that your baby boy Christian was miscarriage. I remember like it was yesterday. Your anguish and desperation when they told you Savannah Rose your baby girl was Very sick. I will never forget the long and many hours your had to endure to come home empty handed.
My sweet baby girl you have suffered so much thought out your life. You still take time to console and help everyone around you. People only see your smile but not too many get to see the sadness you hide. Happy Mother's Day, yes you are also a mom to two beautiful angels.

I love and admire you, and I’m so proud to be your mom.

To Katherine Bisluig, Mother to a Special Baby Boy

(Submitted by Priscilla Fernandez)

To my granddaughter,
You are so young and have sufferer so much. My heart breaks every time I remember you got to hold your baby boy for such little time. So sorry I was not near you to hold you while you cry. You were so strong when you dress him to put him to rest. My sweet great grandson.
I know he is looking down from heaven so happy to have had you as his mom.
He will never forget like you will never forget him.
Happy Mother's Day my baby girl.

Love you more each day.

To Michelle Williams, Mother to Sawyer
(Submitted by Jen DeBouver)

Michelle, I have really enjoyed having you as a friend and as an inspiration in my life and I look forward to getting to know you more as we go on our Mended Little Heart’s ventures and grow our Angel’s program. I am so happy that our boys brought us into each other’s life. I wish you a very special Mother’s Day.

To Kris Richardson, Mother to Milo
(Submitted by Jen DeBouver)

Kris, it really has been a pleasure to have you as a new friend. Our loss is something that not everyone can understand and it’s nice that we can lean on each other for support. You are a strong, amazing mother and Milo would be so proud of you. I am wishing you a peaceful and very special Mother’s Day!

To Kristine Brite McCormick, Mother to Cora
(Submitted by Jen DeBouver)

Kristine, you are such an inspiration for all the things that you do in Cora’s memory and the fight you had to make changes all because of her. You and Cora have made such an amazing difference in the CHD World. I know that Cora would be very proud of you and continues to be proud. I hope that you have a peaceful and special Mother’s Day!

To Francesca Cox, Mother to Jenna Belle
(Submitted by Jen DeBouver)

Although I have never met you, I have been so inspired by all that you have done in the baby loss community and even in your new venture with Wildfeathers Vintage. I love seeing your daily photos to see what new inspiring things you are up to. I always try to be as inspiring to other baby loss moms as you have been to me so thank you for setting such a great example. Loss isn’t easy especially our kind of loss so thank you for showing us that we can all do amazing things in memory of our children. I am wishing you a very special and peaceful Mother’s Day!

To Carly Marie Dudley, Mother to Christian
(Submitted by Jen DeBouver)

Although I have never met you, I have been so inspired by all that you have done in the baby loss community and continue to do. I love seeing your daily photos to see what new inspiring things you are up to. I always try to be as inspiring to other baby loss moms as you have been to me so thank you for setting such a great example. Loss isn’t easy especially our kind of loss so thank you for showing us that we can all do amazing things in memory of our children. All your challenges and projects have really made a difference in getting through my grief and I really enjoy doing them. I am wishing you a very special and peaceful Mother’s Day!

To You, the Most Brave and Beautiful Mother I Know

By RaeAnne Fredrickson, Mother to Samuel Evan, creator of All That Love Can Do

Beautiful mama,

I know how hard today is for you. It’s so far from what it should be for you and my heart aches that your arms are not full, as they should be. I wish more than anything the world could be put right and your baby returned to you. Please, always remember, you are brave. You are beautiful. You are the best mother there is. You did everything a mother could possibly do for her baby and it’s not your fault that death is a thief. You are amazing.

Today, on this very hard day of triggers and reminders, please be extra gentle with yourself. You deserve just as much – really, more – love, respect, and admiration as every mother. You deserve to be honored and so that’s why I’m writing this to YOU. All your baby knew of this life was love. That makes you the best mother there is.

I know it’s not happy, so instead I’ll wish you LOVE, PEACE, and REST this Mother’s Day. You are a beautiful mother <3

Love,

RaeAnne

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day Seven

It's Day Seven of our project! Did you read the letters from Day Six?

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

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To Kristina Peterson, Mother of Layla Esther
(Submitted by Jana Heidebrecht)

Dear Kristina,
You are an outstanding mom. When you carried sweet Layla it was humbling to watch how you treasured each moment. You never took one moment for granted and you still don't. I know you don't feel like you are, but you are one of the strongest woman I know. You live up to your middle name Love. You have loved all your babies with your all. You gave Layla the best during her short time on earth. You were and still are Layla's voice and we got to love her and still do because you shared her personality, her likes and dislikes with us. We love you so much!

Jana

To Kristina Preece, Mother to Stella

(Submitted by Jaime Gee)

Kristina Preece is an amazing, strong, beautiful and loving mother of little Stella, who left this world very suddenly a few months ago. Her strength and courage continues to inspire me and we all know Stella is still with her, and all of us in a new and different capacity now. One of the things Kristina has made clear, is that she wants everyone to continue talking about Stella, by thinking about and sharing what she would be doing, things she's done, and everything in between. Stella will always be in our hearts, but with this request, and Kristina continuing to demonstrate what an amazing mother she is, Stella will also continue to be in our conversations.

Happy Mother's Day, Kristina!

xoxox

To Dana Sue Thompson, Mother to Tristan

(Submitted by Debra Leach)

My sweet daughter Dana Sue Thompson. I love you so much and I want you to know how amazing a mother you are to Elex and to your sweet angle Tristan. You loving and caring for Tristan while you carried him was beautiful. I love the fact that you talked to him, sang, rocked and read to him almost everyday.

Love you!

To Nati Garcia, Mother to Twin Boys

(Submitted by Rosalinda Macias)

My dear sister in law, my best friend.... You have been a light on my path of grief. You suffered such a huge loss when you lost your boys and you were still able to be there for me when I lost my babies. Your an amazing mother not only to the children you have here with you to raise but also to your angels. You speak of them so often that there is never a chance of forgetting them. They are with you every single day and I think of them everyday as well. Every year you go to the beach to honor their lives and their death and you do this with so much strength and grace I only hope one day to be as strong as you are. Your angels are exactly that YOUR angels and they are with our loved ones and their cousins watching over us. I'm so proud to call you my sister everyday I love you Nati and I love your boys and one day we will all be together.

To Kelly Rae, Mother to Asher

(Submitted by Dorothy Fernandez)

Dear Kelly,

On this mother's day, I would like to honor you. Your beautiful son, Asher, is looking down on you from heaven. You are such an amazing and strong woman. Although we have never met, I feel you are one of the few people I look to for strength and inspiration. Your son was conceived under such difficult circumstances. But that did not stop you from moving forward and fighting to give your Asher a good life. You were young and all alone and scared but you didn't give up. You suffered such a terrible loss but you used that to help others. Your beauty and strength shines in your beautiful daughter. I'm so happy you have your earth baby. You have so much love to give and I'm glad you have been able to share it with your daughter and granddaughter. Thank you for being such an amazing friend and inspiration. On this mother's day, I will be thinking of you and Asher. And I know he is looking at you from heaven and he is so proud of you. Happy mother's day Kelly Rae.

To Stephanie Erdman, Mother to Levi and Baby A

(Submitted by Larissa Genat)

Dear Stephanie,
You are such a beautiful mother and I wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you this Mother's Day. I'm so glad you have your girl with you but I know there is no one who can fill the Levi shaped hole. You are such a blessing to me and I hope Mother's Day is gentle and peaceful.
With love, Larissa

To Tash Foote, Mother to Hugo, Star and Sprout

(Submitted by Larissa Genat)

Dear Tash, you are one of the loveliest mamas I have ever known. You love for your babies shines in everything you do and I'm so sure they would be proud of all you do in their memory. You are an inspiration! Happy Mother's Day, from your precious Hugo, Star and Sprout (and me!)
With love, Larissa

To Special Mothers of Babies Lost to SIDS

(Submitted by Samantha Harmon Lovins, Mother to Owen)

My message would be to all my fellow SIDS Moms especially Heather Kiegel mother to Gwyneth, Melissa Ross mother to Isaiah, Michelle Lofton mother to Caleb and Amanda Hester mother to Jace. Without the continued support of these beautiful women these years since I lost our precious son Owen to SIDS I don't know where I would be. I've learned two things since that horrible Christmas Eve, that like speaks to like and that our angels may be gone but they will never be forgotten.

To Marie Knutt, Mother to Connor

(Submitted by Diana Frazier)

Dearest Marie,
You are a strong, beautiful, generous mother. What a gift you gave Connor, to be able to see life and to feel love, be loved, and give love. He was an incredible warrior, overcoming the odds since he took his first breath. Your love for him and Ryan is a testament to your inner beauty and strength. You are so very loved. Connor will always be remembered.

To Jamie Brown, Mother to Joey

(Submitted by Mellisa Higgins)

I had the pleasure of spending one weekend with Joey and Jamie. Although we had never met in person before, I immediately felt a strong bond with Jamie and we became immediate friends. I got to witness the unconditional love that Jamie has for Joey and was able to fall in love with him as soon as I saw him. Jamie never got frustrated when Joey cried, never showed anything but love and adoration to him. Going through airport security with a child with a feeding tube and a running pump was horrendous but Jamie kept her cool and did what was best for her son. The true love I witnessed that weekend will stay with me forever and i am honored that i was able to meet such an amazing little boy before he became an Angel. I love you Jamie, Happy Mothers Day to one of the greatest mom's I have ever known and will ever know. You and Joey will forever be in my heart and I am proud to call you my friend.

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Tomorrow is the last day for these beautiful letters! Be sure to come back tomorrow to read the rest.  

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day Six

It's Day Six of our project! Did you read the letters from Day Five?

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

We will be accepting new letters up until Saturday, May 10th, if you'd like to write a letter to the special Babyloss Mother in your life.

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To Marie Knutt, Mother to Connor
(Submitted by Diana Frazier)

Dearest Marie,
You are a strong, beautiful, generous mother. What a gift you gave Connor, to be able to see life and to feel love, be loved, and give love. He was an incredible warrior, overcoming the odds since he took his first breath. Your love for him and Ryan is a testament to your inner beauty and strength. You are so very loved. Connor will be always be remembered.

To RaeAnne Fredrickson, Mother to Samuel Evan

(Submitted by Christen Richardson)

I have never met you but my heart goes out to you, I know that Samuel has a great family, some already in heaven and some on earth left to carry his name and memories. Stay strong Mama, you are making a difference and your Son is so proud of you!

To Dawn McNeese, Mother to Abigail

(Submitted by Marilee Kelhoffer)

I remember your sweet Abigail daily. I can never thank you enough for letting me meet her and hold her beautiful little body. Your strength amazes me. You constantly push yourself to be present for the rest of your children, though I know at times your grief overwhelms you. I will never fully understand what the loss of Abigail has done to you, but I will continue to try.

All my love,
Marilee

To Serena McLaughlin, Mother to Noah

(Submitted by Maryann Brown)

You are the most amazing person I know. What a wonderful mommy sweet Noah has, and as he shines down on you from heaven, I know he loves you and is so proud of his Mommy! Moment by moment sweet one!

Love,

Mary Ann

To Crystal Holes, Mother to Aedyn Christopher and Peanut

(Submitted by Nicole Goulette)

You are such a beautiful person. I could not imagine having walked this journey without you there. As we continue to mother our children from far away, I pray we always stay connected and hope you know I'm always here for you.

Nicky G

To Amanda Vitko, Mother to Charlotte Rae

(Submitted by Molly Binns Handelsman)

Amanda you are the most amazing and courageous mother that I know. I admire your resilience and strength this past year and want you to know how much you are loved. I don’t know how you are able to carry on every day, but you do and you do it with grace. You are the absolute best mother to all 3 of your children and you should never forget that. I love you more than words can express and I will always love my beautiful niece Charlotte Rae. I will carry her with me forever and always.

Molly

To Chenelle Hastings, Mother to Jude

(Submitted by Rickee Slezak)

I met her through a cloth diaper group. When my full term (42w5d) baby passed away suddenly during labor, she reached out to me and shared her own healing process. Her sweet son is named Jude. He really has took a sad song and made it better, and I love her beautiful soul, and Jude. 

To Kristina Preece, A Special Mother

(Submitted by Danielle Masanto)

Kristina,

You're a beautiful Wife, Friend, and Mother.

Danielle

To Jaclyn Spicknall Petersen, Mother to Jonas Russell

(Submitted by Leslie Bennett Spicknall)

To our wonderful daughter who gave birth to our tiny angel Jonas Russell. We celebrate you Jac, and the Mommy that you are, and we're so proud of your bravery and determination after losing Jonas, you risked so much, and our gift of Andrew the result. I always knew that God's plan would be fulfilled for our Peties, not an easy road, but exactly as it should be. Jonas life was a gift to us, he taught us to love in a much deeper way than we knew was possible before.

Happy Mother's Day

Love,

Momma and Daddy-O

To Tanya Loewen-Watson, Mother to Zariah Dawn and Ganya Lilly

(Submitted by Audrey Unger)

I think of you often and know that the pain of losing your daughters is unbearable. You are in my prayers.

Tanya you are amazing with incredible strength! You have a beautiful smile and a delightful sense of humour. The obvious delight you take in your children is wonderful. I admire the way you celebrated your daughter's lives while you carried them in your womb and in the all too brief moments you held them in your arms. It takes a strong person to do all that you do each day.

Mother's Day is a hard day. It's hard to see other happy Mothers celebrating with their loved ones when you are missing Zariah and Ganya so desperately. So I'm sending you an extra special hug today, honouring you as a mother of five beautiful children. Thank you for being you!

Love Audrey

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Remember, we'll be posting letters all week long, so be sure to check back every day to read more!

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day Five

It's Day Five of our project! Did you read the letters from Day Four?

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

We will be accepting new letters up until Saturday, May 10th, if you'd like to write a letter to the special Babyloss Mother in your life.

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To Nakia Nieves-Talavera, Mother to Kristofer Makaio Butler

(Submitted by Dorothy Fernandez)

Nakia,

You are a beautiful and strong woman. I am blessed to know you and call you my cousin. I know that Kristofer is in Heaven looking down on you smiling. He is so proud of you. You are an amazing mommy. Although he is no longer here, he still feels your love. He knows how much you love and miss him. You carry on his memory. He sees the beautiful pictures you have posted on Facebook. You never forget him. You keep his memory alive. One only has to look a those pictures and read your words to feel your love for him. You are such a wonderful mommy to your rainbow baby, Matty. You take such effort with feeding him healthy and teaching him everything. You are an inspiration to me. I admire your strength. You always take the time and effort to reach out to me and include me and my angel babies in anything you see or read about that pertains to them. For this, I am forever grateful. Very few understand the pain in my heart. And very few take the time to try to soothe my soul. I love you. Happy Mother's Day.

Love,
Dora

To Maria Katerina Korbos, Mother to Two Angel Babies
(Submitted by Dorothy Fernandez)

Maria,

I want to wish you a very happy Mother's Day. You have two beautiful angels in Heaven. We often talk about how we hope they are friends and are playing up there lol. I'm sure by now they are. You are an incredibly loving woman. You are always the first one to reach out to me whenever I post or say anything about my babies. You just let me know that you are there and that I am not alone and that you understand. I so appreciate you and want to let you know you inspire me. You are so strong. You are the most beautiful and loving Mommy to your beautiful earth baby girl, Michaela. And just because your two precious babies are no longer here doesn't mean you are not a good mommy to them. They are in Heaven smiling down at you, loving you so much. You are such a good mommy to them as well eve though they are in Heaven. You make them feel your love for them. You make so proud. Thank you for being an amazing mother and friend. I am blessed to have you in my life. Happy Mother's Day.

Love,
Dora

To Jay Paynes, A Beautiful Loss Mom and Friend

(Submitted by Sarah Walder)

I befriended her through a mutual friend during the time of my most recent loss of my little angel Myranda Faith, she has sent so many kind words to me over the past month that have helped my healing process... I am thankful to have someone to speak to that has had a similar situation happen to her that knows the heartache I have...I hope to one day meet her in person to hug her and share tears if joy knowing that I have developed a bond with, just between messaging on Facebook thank you again for all the kindness.

To Holly Christine Bridges, Mother to Autumn Glover

(Submitted by Sarah Walder)

She is my very best friend the glue that holds me together she has been placed in my life and I am forever grateful. I would be completely lost without you. Thank you for always sticking by my side though the tough times and the good times I know that Autumn, Dyllon, Noah & Myranda are all playing together or beating each other up lol (because they have tempers like us)..I hope that you know our angels are watching over us every day and always blowing kisses to us!!! Thank you god for giving me the most special gift a person can ask for a TRUE best friend and key to my happiness.... I love you holly!

To Dominique Nowak, Mother to Natalia Rose

(Submitted by Rhea Beach)

Dominique is a strong mom to Natalia Rose. She will always be a mom to a beautiful angel that watches her.

To Amanda Vitko, Mother to Charlotte Rae

(Submitted by Susie Holmes Binns)

To my beautiful daughter Amanda Vitko-- you are such an amazing, wonderful mother and I love you so much. Your baby girl, my grand daughter, Charlotte Rae will always be in our hearts and we love and miss her every day. You continue to amaze me with your strength, faith, and love. I am so proud of you and love you so much,
Mom

To Harley Krein, Mother to Vanna Lilith Krein

(Submitted by Judy Roach)

Harley you are amazing in every way possible. You gave me and my husband the greatest honor by marrying our son and becoming a mother which I know was one of the greatest honors of your life. I loved watching you with Vanna, it brought me joy beyond words. I see your heart ache for her everyday as does ours. But in spite of the pain of her loss remembering her at every chance we get is equally as important. Her baby brothers who were conceived just after her passing are a physical reminder to the world that your a mother but your family knows you were already a mother! One of the best we have ever seen. You are not only a military spouse you endured deployment and time away from our son all the while caring for Vanna. She never wanted for anything because you were always there for her. You have kept it together not only for yourself but for your husband and now your twins. You honor Vanna's life by being such an amazing mother to her and her baby brothers. You are also an amazing wife to her father. I hope you know that. I hope you know how much you’re loved. How we stand with you in remembering that you became a mother the day Vanna was conceived! From that very moment on you became the amazing mother you are. We love you forever and always! Happy Mother's Day Harley!!!!!!!

Sincerely, Jason and Judy (Papaw and GamGam)

This picture was taken the day our son came home from deployment, the baby he is holding is his daughter Vanna she passed away less than 5 days later of SIDS. He had a total of 11 days with her. This picture was one of the happiest moments of our life. To see this reunion now is priceless.

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Remember, we'll be posting letters all week long, so be sure to check back every day to read more!

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day Four

It's Day Four of our project! Did you read the letters from Day Three?

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

We will be accepting new letters up until Saturday, May 10th, if you'd like to write a letter to the special Babyloss Mother in your life.

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To Ashley Nugent Charfauros, Mother to Noelle
(Submitted by Saundra Floto Nugent)

Ashley,
A mother has never been more proud of her daughter then I am of you. There are no words to explain how amazed I have been with your strength, courage and unconditional love for Noelle. No mother should ever have to say goodbye to her child before she is born. You spent months saying goodbye and I know there was nothing anyone could do to change God’s path for you or Noelle. But, to the depths of my soul, I believe that you were the most perfect mother Noelle could ever have had (and still has). In her 9 months and 53 days she knew more love then most of us will ever know. You were able to put Noelle before you and allowed her to finish her time with us during a peaceful and beautiful moment. You were the first to feel her, to hold her and you were also the last. What a beautiful gift to be able to love someone for their entire lives and to know only love. I believe Noelle will always be with us and that you gave her the chance to touch so many lives is her short time with us on Earth. You are truly the most selfless person I know and I am so proud to call you my daughter.
She is always with us.
Love, Mom
Noelle and Emmie’s Oma

To Tracy Owen, Mother to Catelyn Anna

(Submitted by Deonna Lemasters Poole)

Tracy,
I want to tell you what an amazing mother you are. I love that you keep Catelyn alive by sharing your favorite photos and videos of her on Facebook and writing about her and your journey through her loss on your blog. You are such an inspiration to me and so many other people. I know Catelyn isn’t here physically to celebrate with you, but she will always be with you in spirit and you will always be her amazing mother and you deserve to be celebrated today.
Love your friend and fellow bereaved mother,

Deonna

To Jillian Pedrick Ryan, Mother to Isabelle Ryan

(Submitted by Tammy Pedrick Rood)

I would like to honor my sister, Jillian. The loss of her daughter, Isabelle Ryan hit our family hard. I don't think I will ever forget that moment when she called me to tell us that Isabelle was gone. As her big sister, I wanted to go in and protect her from the pain & hurt, but I couldn't. During the last 11 months, I have seen my sister go through the stages of grief and it hurt to see her hurt and not be able to do anything but stand by and support all of her choices and decisions as she moved through. I admire her for the strength she she's shown and that is why I want to honor her this Mother's Day.
Love you sis!

To Kelli Marie Barclay, Mother to Her Special Angel

(Submitted by Danielle Meyers)

I wanted to write to my friend Kelli Marie Barclay for the bereaved Mother's Day! After wanting a baby so desperately she sadly miscarried a few months ago.... We were all devastated but she kept her faith and was so strong through a major storm in her life! Even though she never got to meet her baby or even get the chance to know the gender a mother’s love is timeless and unconditional! The most amazing thing is she knows God has a plan for her and she is a Mother worth recognizing! I am so proud of her and her strength is commendable! I hope she knows what an amazing Mother she will be when blessed with the opportunity again!
Love always, Bella

To Amanda Garcia de Paredes, Mother to Juliana Violet

(Submitted by Nicole Little)

Amanda Garcia de Paredes: beautiful Mother of precious angel Juliana Violet and the strongest woman I know; loyal and steadfast friend, who knows all there is to know about me and still loves me anyways, dearest Godmother to my own little one, an all-around AMAZING person. The way that you have honored Juliana’s life, the way you are making felt her mark on the world. I am humbled in the presence of your fierce mother-love. We may not be close in distance but you, Agustin and Juliana - I hold you all within my heart and I thank you for the gift of your friendship, and the gift of Juliana. I hope I can be half the Mother that you are.

To Susan Simpson, Mother to Alex and Eilidh Beth

(Submitted by Annette Michelle)

First of all let me say thank you for giving the opportunity to honor these beautiful, courageous mothers and their children in such a special way! As a mother and a loss mother myself I know what a treasure it is to not only be remembered and honored ourself on these special days, but also to have the lives of our children remembered and honored. There are so many beautiful, amazing moms I could write this about today... But the one that I've chosen is so very special and dear to my heart as not only is she an amazing mother to her two living daughters and her to heavenly daughters but she is also an amazing friend to me... Her name is Susan Simpson. She is the mother of Charis who is a bright, talented 9 year old, Alex whom was miscarried in July of 2007, Niamh who is a bright eyed full of energy 5 year old, better known as the wee wild child J ,and Eilidh Beth who was stillborn in September of 2010. This mom just less than a month after leaving the hospital without her beautiful 8lb baby girl in her arms decided she needed to do something to reach out to others touched by such heart wrenching grief. With that she contacted the charity in her area, SiMBA who are dedicated to responding to the needs of those affected by the loss of a baby. Soon after that first meeting she began working with this charity in providing memory boxes to the maternity wards at area hospitals, providing and facilitating monthly support groups, helping raise funds for updated and furnished family rooms on the wards, cold cots to extend the time families can spend with their babies and having the tree of tranquility erected in the beautiful Floral Hall in Inverness. This tree is a place where family's can have copper leaves engraved with their baby's names and a little message and attached to the tree in their honor. Such a gift to bereaved families. At this location last year she also organized the first annual butterfly release for the families. It was an amazing and beautiful way to honor and remember the lives of their heavenly babies. And this year it has grown to many locations across the area to be able to reach many more families. Just this spring she was surprised at their annual Cinderella ball to be bestowed the honor and privilege of the title of Highland Ambassador for SiMBA. She has allowed the short but oh so significant lives of Alex and Eilidh Beth to light her way to helping and impacting the lives of others in more ways than she could have ever imagined and will likely ever know. She tells her story openly and courageously in hopes that no other mother will ever feel alone on this rugged journey. And each time she does the legacy of Alex and Eilidh Beth lives on and grows stronger. You are one of the most beautiful mothers I have ever known my dear friend and I want you to know how much you mean to so many... So today I honor you! Today I honor and remember Alex and Eilidh Beth. Today I hope to shine a little of their light here.

 The first collage is for her heavenly girls the second is her family here,

 and the tree of tranquility and it's leaves!

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Remember, we'll be posting letters all week long, so be sure to check back every day to read more!

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day Three

It's Day Three of our project! Did you read the letters from Day Two?

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

We will be accepting new letters up until Saturday, May 10th, if you'd like to write a letter to the special Babyloss Mother in your life.

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To Jennifer Harris Dault, Mother to Benjamin Charles and Avelyn Grace
(Submitted by Paula Belousek)

Jennifer,

I am remembering you, Allyn, and your beautiful babies. You are an amazing mother and you have honored Benjamin and Avelyn well in your willingness to share your story and to minister to others out of your place of pain and loss. i am so grateful to have met you this winter and for the beautiful gift of the remembrance and communion service you planned for our children.
I pray our holy Mother would be close to you on this day and bring you comfort in knowing that she holds, cradles and rocks your little ones while you cannot. I hold hope with you for the day when you will see these little ones face to face. May our great Mother continue to hold you in the promise and hope that there is no where we can go that God is not.
Much love,
Paula

To Chantel Keller, Mother to Acheron
(Submitted by Sara Vogt)

I've never met Chantel, but Acheron's dad is how I know her, I took the death of Acheron personally because I have known his daddy for years. Chantel is a very strong woman, she of course has her hard days but she has her good days too. I want her to know that even though Acheron is gone, he's not forgotten and she's still his mommy, she will always be his mommy. She always has a kind word to say, and she loves talking about Acheron, which I love hearing about the little man. She has hope, she has unconditional love, and she's not letting his passing stop her from living her life. I'm thankful that I've made a new friend, even though the circumstances are sad, but as I tell her, we walk side by side, hand in hand, in this journey of grief. I will always be here for her, day or night when she needs a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen to her.

Hang in there Chantel! You're doing great. You're strong, you're beautiful!

Love always,
Sara

To Amanda Garcia de Paredes, Mother to Juliana Violet

(Submitted by Jennifer Shea)

Amanda is one of the most giving, caring and amazing women I know. As a social worker she devotes her life to helping others, especially children. Amanda was forced to do the hardest thing any mother needs to endure and this was to give her little angel Juliana Violet back. Her strength inspires me, and I smile every time her and Auggie honour Juliana's memory whether it be collecting supplies for the less fortunate or swimming with dolphins to remember milestones. Amanda you are loved and many are thinking of you today and always, and most importantly your little angel is smiling down on you. Xoxo

To Laurene Mercantini, Mother to Hunter Henry Hoffman
(Submitted by Erica Rauch)

Laurene, I know this Mother's Day will be so difficult for you without your precious Hunter. You are, and will always be his mommy. Hunter's life may have been short but he has touched so many lives in his brief time here. Hunter will never be forgotten.

Love,
Erica

To Margaret Applegate Pilon, Mother to Madelynn

(Submitted by Erica Rauch)

Margaret, this Mother's Day I honor you and your sweet angel Madelynn. I am so thankful for both you and Madelynn for being such an important part of my life and for helping me and so many other women along in their grief process. By helping others, you honor Madelynn and keep her memory alive.

Love,
Erica

To Stacey Nichols, Mother to Emma Grace
(Submitted by Erica Rauch)

Stacey,
This Mother's Day I think of you and your beautiful baby girl Emma Grace. Somehow, you and I and Emma and Avery were meant to be connected. We have a long journey ahead of us, but I'm thankful to have you to walk by my side so we can help each other through this journey. I wish you warm sunshine and loving thoughts of Emma this Mother's Day.

Love,
Erica

To Stacey Patterson Lauzon, Mother to Justin Case
(Submitted by Erica Rauch)

Stacey,
I will be thinking of you and your sweet baby boy Justin this Mother's Day. As you prepare to welcome a new life into this world, I know Justin is watching over you and guiding you along the way. He will always be your first born and will never be forgotten. I am thankful for your friendship as we navigate this grief process together.

Love,
Erica

To Tess McVey Mullan, Mother to Brayleigh Elizabeth
(Submitted by Erica Rauch)

Tess,
I will be thinking of you and Brayleigh this Mother's Day. I know your angel must be so proud of you and and the help you are providing others in Brayleigh's honor. You are amazing mother and Brayleigh will always be your bright shining star, guiding you along the way.

Love,
Erica

To Carly Marie Dudley, Mother to Christian

Carly,
While you don't know me personally and we live thousands of miles apart, I honor you this Mother's Day. I am so thankful for the beautiful work you do and the kindness you show others. The photo that you made of my daughter's name written in the sand with the sunset shining on Avery's name is invaluable to us. The photo hangs in our hallway and is a beautiful reminder of our baby girl. Project Heal has been a huge source of help and healing to me, and other babyloss moms, and for that I can't thank you enough. You have given us these beautiful blessings in memory of Christian. I hope this Mother's Day, you take some time out for yourself and that you have beautiful reminders of your son Christian. I wish you love and healing that you have provided so many mothers across the world.

Love,
Erica Rauch

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Remember, we'll be posting letters all week long, so be sure to check back every day to read more!

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day Two

It's Day Two of our project! Did you read the letters from Day One?

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

We will be accepting new letters up until Saturday, May 10th, if you'd like to write a letter to the special Babyloss Mother in your life.

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To Kayla, Mother to Tristain

(Submitted by Marilee Anderson)

I would like to honor Kayla to recognize the loss of her beloved son, my nephew Tristain. Kayla I admire your strength and want you to know you, Adam & Tristain remain in my thoughts always. Love you!!

To Tanya Loewen-Watson, Mother to Ganya and Zaria

(Submitted by Robyn Dyck)

I want to let this special Mama know how wonderful she is! She has lost two precious daughters, Ganya and Zaria in a very short period of time. This Mama is so strong!! She manages to take care of her other three children and husband as well, probably forgetting to take care of herself (as most moms do). She is always at church every Sunday, and I often wonder how she does it, week after week. This Mama is extremely talented, she has a way of putting words onto paper that reach the very depths of your soul, and you know that's where her words came from.

This Mama is beautiful and sweet. She always has a smile, or a wave, or will chat (sometimes via FB) and I can see the love in her eyes when she does so.

Tanya you are a wonderful Mother, you have been through so much and yet still carry on!! You are an encouragement to me, just by being yourself. I know Mother's Day must be hard for you, I'm so sorry for the daughters you have lost. Please know that I am happy to know you, and want to celebrate you this Mother's Day!! Hugs to you, Tanya!!

To Paige Brase, Mother to Grayson, Mavis Emily, Aaron, and Jack

(Submitted by Marynell Owens)

Paige,

I think you are such a phenomenally strong woman and mother. I know it has been incredibly hard to lose first Grayson, then Mavis Emily, and then Aaron and Jack. So many times I have wondered how you have remained standing.

I admire the way you used your hurt and loss to help the children you teach. I love knowing that there is something tangible I (and others) can do to remember your sweet babies- giving books to their memorial library at your school. Even in your grief, you look out for others.

You are an incredibly beautiful and wonderful mother.
Love, Marynell

To Melissa Harris Neu, Mother to Tucker and Fletcher

(Submitted by Carol Hellard)

As Mother's Day approaches, I just want you to know what a good mother you have been and continue to be to your boys. They always know you love them and wait for the day you will see them face to face again. Until that time they are safe in the arms of God. Love you and pray for you daily. Live life to the fullest.

With love,
Carol

To Regina Stinnette, Mother to Tanner

(Submitted by Stacey Maddox)

One of the saddest days of my life was Tanner's Family Night. We gathered at the funeral home and stood in a small room. The tiny coffin at the front of the room overshadowed conversation. The parents, my then-husband's cousin and her husband, both wore thousand-yard stares. I don't remember any tears, but I remember hollow laughter. People were offering numerous platitudes. Heaven needed another angel. Too beautiful for earth. It was God's will. Someone approached me and whispered, "You know it didn't have a chance". Earlier that day, a family member had called to talk about the arrangements and how the parents had picked out a grave and a coffin and made the funeral arrangements. Tanner's mother, Regina, had to be dragged from the bed, they said.

A few weeks earlier, I had visited the NICU to see Tanner. In his little incubator, I had been astonished by how beautiful he was. I don't know what I expected to see, but I didn't expect a perfectly formed, tiny baby. He even had nipples, which is what I remember most clearly about him! Regina commented, "He just needed to cook a little longer". He was perfect! It never occurred to me that he could die. I was 25 and babies didn't die.

After the funeral, I didn't have much contact with Regina. An occasional visit or message was the extent of our connection. But I heard a lot about her. I heard about her struggles from family members. Some gossiped, others were concerned. And then, slowly, Regina herself started talking about them on Facebook. This was a smart, professional woman and her life seemed to be falling apart. I couldn't grasp the pain of what she was experiencing, but I grieved for her. Every year she posted notes to Tanner on his birthday and, even through all of the pain, her love for him was so apparent.

Today, I'm four months out from the death of my own newborn daughter, Denali. Regina, I have always admired you, but I admire you even more now. From you, I have learned that it's okay not to be okay. I've learned that being a mother means that you fought hard for your child and that you let your child go when it was time. You taught me that life is messy and raw, there's no answers, and that you don't have to handle it with grace. You fell down, and you picked yourself back up again. You have struggled. Your courage to keep going gives me courage. But most of all, your love for Tanner has taught me what it truly means to be a mother. Thank you. I want to wish you a Happy Mother's Day. I hope that somewhere, Tanner, Kellen and Denali are together. 

To Amanda Hoffman, Mother to Priscilla

(Submitted by Meg Worthley Sohns)

I would like to honor one of my best friends, Amanda Hoffman. Amanda is an amazing mom and so strong. I don't know how she does it, my heart still breaks for the loss of Priscilla and I know hers does too. I can't even begin to imagine the pain that Amanda goes through on a daily basis. She takes it all in stride and still continues to be a thoughtful and amazing friend, wife, and mother to her other 2 children. She is the glue that holds us all together. Not only would this have been Amanda's first mother's day with 3 children, it is the month Priscilla was born. She would have been 1 years old this month. I don't know if I could do what Amanda does everyday and to do it with such grace. I love her so much and am honored to call this woman my friend for life. You inspire me everyday, Amanda. I love you my dear sweet friend. I miss her too and will hold your hand every step of the way on this lifelong journey without your sweet Cilla.

XOXO

To Jaimee Semple-Zitzka, Mother to Jesse

(submitted by Lindsay Adams)

I don't always know what words to say or even if you want to hear words... But you are in my thoughts more often than not. You are brave beyond measure. You are loved more than you realize. Xoxo

Lin

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Remember, we'll be posting letters all week long, so be sure to check back every day to read more!

Honoring Babyloss Mothers Project - Day One

Today is Day One of our project! It's also International Bereaved Mother's Day. If you know a mother whose child died, please take the time today to let her know she's LOVED and her baby is MISSED.

For this project, we'll be posting notes and letters to babyloss mothers, written by the friends and family who love them. Learn about it HERE. Each day, we'll be posting more of the letters we received for these beautiful mamas.

To Lisa Vanskike, Mother to Gloria Grace 

(Submitted by Shannon Jones Douglas) 

Lisa-
I wanted you to know I think you are truly the world's best mother. Even before you found out Gloria was sick you did everything possible to give her the best start. After her diagnosis you did so much research, asked so many questions, and ALWAYS held out hope for your baby girl. You didn't listen to negative comments from hospital staff, you knew she was a fighter. You made sure Gloria felt love every single moment that you had with her. When Gloria did come she DID defy the odds. You made sure her time here on earth was the most it could be. After she passed you continued to stay strong for her and plan a beautiful service. And now you still are the best mother as you insure that her memory lives on. I am so grateful and honored to be your sister. You are amazing. I love you!

To Alix Hopper, Mother to Cyrus Kal El

(Submitted by Sherri Hopper) 

Dear sweet Ali, 

You have my utmost admiration, respect & unconditional love. You have become a hero to me because of the spiritual strength you have demonstrated through the fatal diagnosis, birth & death of our beloved Cyrus... Far more than me! I continue to question while you stand firm. Though you are not my daughter by birth, you are an amazing & cherished daughter-in-law! I love you! 

Sherri (MIL)

To Suzie Moore, Mother to Connor

(Submitted by Amy Smith Kusmer) 

Suzie, you are such a strong woman and I want you to know how much you mean to me. You and I have such a special bond and it is all because of our angels. I can talk to you about how I feel anytime and I know you will listen and never judge me. As we have said many times, I'm sorry for the reason why we met, but I am so glad we did. Thank you for being you and someone I can call me true friend! 

I love you,

Amy

  

To Tara Gowen Fricano, Mother to Ian

(Submitted by Jessica Russo (and Family)) 

Dear Tara,
My sweet friend I think if you daily and know there is a silent struggle within you. I walk with you half way across the country in spirit everyday. Today I want to honor you and Ian’s life. You are one of the strongest types of moms and you smile for lily and Devin even when you feel you can’t. Mothers day shouldn't be sad please be proud to have been the best mom to Ian ever. Your little boy lives within your heart and you both are always in mine <3 <3. may your heart be filled with comfort and love today and every day. I wish we were closer. 

<3 Ian Fricano <3
5/10/12 ~ 3/19/13 

ALL MY LOVE,
Jessica 

To Devon Hernandez, Mother to Asher

(submitted by Sara Crill)

I would like to honor Devon Hernandez. She lost her beautiful baby boy this time last year. Her heart is so broken and I pray for peace for her. I wish there was something I could do to take the pain away. Little Asher made her a mother and she should be honored for her bravery and strength during Asher's long waited conception, difficult pregnancy, too early birth, and sadly his heart breaking death. She stays strong on the outside even though she still actively grieves on the inside. Devon is a strong woman and mother and does so much for everyone around her. I adore her and admire her for her charm and wit. She is beautiful and charismatic and people are drawn to her. She is spectacular and deserves to be happy. I know this will be a very difficult Mother's Day for her and I wish her peace in remembrance of the day that she held her sweet baby Asher one year ago.

To Shontel Dobner, Mother to Jordan Ali

(Submitted by Meghan Foley)

Shontel is my stepdaughter who lost her little angel Jordan Ali Dobner on March 18 2013. Shontel and Brad found out that Jordan was not going to survive in December 2012. Shontel said if the only life Jordan was going to know in her belly than she was going to give him every chance and not cut Jordan's life short. I am so honored to know this woman. Shontel is an awesome mom she has a little boy named Kobe and he would always tell us that Jordan was going to be an angel in heaven when he was born. Happy Mother's Day From your Little Angel Jordan. Shontel I admire you everyday for your strength!

 I love you,

Meghan

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Remember, we'll be posting letters all week long, so be sure to check back every day to read more!