It is with great joy and yet, tremendous sorrow to announce that I am now an affiliate photographer for Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep...a non-profit organization that provides free photography to families who are experiencing the death of a baby. I am so thrilled to use my gift to serve others in this way and yet, my heart breaks each time I consider actually getting a call to come to the hospital to capture the last moments a family will ever have with their newborn baby. Please read the exerpt from their website to learn more about the organization and how to find a nilmdts photographer in your area.
"Pregnancy and birth are miraculous journeys. This amazing time of life is full of mystery, anticipation, joy, hope, and wonder. Feeling the powerful energy of birth and new life, watching as a new family is born unto each other. These things humble and amaze. These are the things that we celebrate when a baby is born."
"But there is another aspect of pregnancy and birth. There is an unexpected place in this journey where some families may find themselves. When a baby dies, a world is turned upside down. There is confusion, sadness, fear, and uncertainty that cannot be explained. There is sorrow where there should have been joy. During this time, it might be impossible for families to know what they might need in order to heal in the future."
"For families overcome by grief and pain, the idea of photographing their baby may not immediately occur to them. Offering gentle and beautiful photography services in a compassionate and sensitive manner is the heart of this organization. The soft, gentle heirloom photographs of these beautiful babies are an important part of the healing process. They allow families to honor and cherish their babies, and share the spirits of their lives."
Contact me to find out more or visit their beautiful website.
I just got this email from one of my clients and wanted to add her response to this post...
Brandy-
"I read your BLOG update this morning and then went on the NILMDTS website.I sat and looked at the images and wept. I cannot imagine the true devastation those sweet families feel. I am so proud of you for joining this group- what a beautiful memory to provide a grieving family. Againyour photography- your gift is going to be used to bless others."
"I am so proud of you! I wish you never had to do a single shoot of this nature but know that when you are called upon- it will be a beautiful experience in a very different way than you have had."
"My family has made a donation to this organization today- thank you for opening our eyes to this worthy cause. I can tell you without reservation-that when I put my kids to bed this evening I will hug them a little tighter and kiss them an extra time- then hit my knees and thank God for their place in my life!! I have been really moved by you and your new journey today."
Blessings!
Jessica
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
I can't bring myself to look at the website too much, but I wanted to comment on what a tremendous use of your talent. You have a gift and a blessing and it's wonderful of you to share that in such a way!
I can't tell you how heartbroken I am everytime I see this on your blog. I can't imagine how difficult this must be for these people, and you too. I truly admire you for participating in this...
Post a Comment