A Worthy Distraction

The past two weeks have not been normal around here. Two weeks ago, we were preparing to attend Matt's funeral. Tonight is Caitlin's. She did not make it. From what I understand, her brain continued to swell and she began to have strokes. Through an MRI, earlier in the week, the doctors determined that she was not going to wake up. In their last bit of bravery and compassion, the family decided to donate her organs, before taking her off of life support.

I'm still trying to wrap my brain around this. It's surreal. My heart weeps for the family. It is my worst nightmare times two. As I made cookies for Matt's viewing, I cried. As I made cupcakes for Caitlin's, I was in shock. It feels like a bad, made-for-tv movie.

We went to the viewing last night. I had no idea what to say to the family. No words could come to my lips. I just shook her father's hand, and patted his back, with tears in my eyes. We communicated through our tears instead.

In a bit of trying to keep myself distracted this week, after we learned of Caitlin's turn for the worse, I made some newborn hats. These hats were made from shirts (which were about to be donated) and sent to Mama to Mama. It is a worthwhile cause and a good distraction for the week.

Some good things can come tragedies. Caitlin's organs have been donated to others awaiting transplants and some newborn babies will have hats upon their heads to help maintain their body temperature.

Comments

Katie Jean said…
oh Lera, I am so, so sad to hear this. I just can't imagine.
Anonymous said…
Oh Lera, I just don't know what yo say. So sorry. So sad.
Jane said…
Sending prayers to their family and hugs to you.
Sarah and Jack said…
(deep breath). The death of children is really just the worst. And for it to happen so suddenly and times two? Ugh. Our Natalie has been on my mind a lot over here. It seems hard to take your eyes off your own children when you are reminded of how fragile they are, doesn't it?
randi said…
This is so sad and tragic. My prayers are all I know to give--for the family and for you as you encourage them.

(((HUGS)))
Jessica said…
Lera,
I am so sorry for everything you are going through. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and Caitlin's family as they struggle to go own after this tragedy. (((HUGS))) to you and your family.
Sonja said…
Goosebumps. I'm glad for the silver lining of the organ donation, but... what a sad story.
Anonymous said…
You and their families were close to my thoughts all weekend.... and in my prayers. Peace, my friend.
misschris said…
This is such sad news. I can't even imagine how that family hurts right now....

Hugs to you and prayers for them, Lera.

(and what sweet little baby hats for some lucky little ones.) xoxo
Me and Him said…
Oh Lera, I cannot imagine losing a child, losing 2 is unfathomable.

Hugs and prayers for you all.
Lucy Jane said…
I'm very sad for this family... and the thought of communicating through tears has to be the most heart felt. I am truely sorry for the loss... the world needs all the good it can get... Hold those babies close... as I will too.
God Bless you and your friends right now.
kira said…
oh my, that poor family! at least they have the gospel to help them through it ... but it's still absolutely horrible.
nikko said…
How absolutely awful for Matt and Caitlin's family. I cannot imagine losing a child. How terrible their grief must be.

Such sweet baby hats. How thoughtful of you to find a distraction that was so selfless.
Anonymous said…
Hugs Lera, the look you shared with the family was enough. They are in shock too but trying to make some good come from the situation through organ donation. That was so kind and thoughtful of them at such a time.

Sometimes it's easier to send a card later telling them how moving the service was so they can read it later in their own time as they travel the cycles of grief. You were there for them Lera and that will mean a lot.

Go hug your children Lera- it will make you feel a whole lot better.
Diane said…
My heart sank in reading about Caitlin. So tragic. Prayers go out to the family.

The hats are a great idea. For me, contribution is a great combatant of feeling helpless!
Oh I am so so sorry to hear of this tragic loss! You and the family are in my prayers tonight!
Cindy Is Crafty said…
Lera,
How very sad. Bless their hearts. I will certainly remember them in my prayers.
Liz said…
I applaud their decision to donate her organs. No parent should ever have to make that decision...
What a horrible tragedy for this family! I, too, lost my brother to a car accident (in 2001...he was 18 yrs old). It forever changes a family. I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your sister and of this family's losses. I pray strength and comfort for them.
Jo-Anne said…
Oh Lera, this is just devastating news. I can't imagine how hard this must be for her immediate family and for the ward family. I am just so sorry. May her parents be blessed for their selfless sacrifice of her organ donation. I hope that brings them a measure of peace in such a difficult time.
My prayers are with you and her family. {{HUGS}}
Karyn said…
Why did I not know about SM's new website? :)

The hats are great and a very worthy distraction.

You already know how sad about your loss.
Amanda Jean said…
"we communicated through our tears instead." you've almost got me crying now.

and btw, those hats are cute!!! I love the little knot at the top. my oldest had a little hat like that when he was born it was my favorite.
Chara Michele said…
That is such sad news... I will definitely say some prayers for that family...
Sue said…
I cannot imagine the pain the family is feeling, nor your family too. My heart goes out to you all.
Kris said…
Such a sad story. No wonder you were in shock. How wonderful that Caitlin's family were able to donate her organs. Such a blessing to those who received them, and to Caitlin's family.

I love the newborn hats. Such a worthy cause, and what a great idea to distract yourself by serving others.
dig this chick said…
Oh, Lera. I am so sad for that family. wow. You are right that it is hard to even know what to say.

Great work on the mama to mama initiative! I have had my eye on that and I might crank some out tomorrow.

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