For the last three nights, I have been working, little by little, on the photographs I took for the family of the baby that died on Monday. It’s been very hard, especially whe I add the music. Ron told me to mute it so I wouldn’t get teary eyed every time. I did listen to it once and yeah, ended up in tears again. But I have to make sure the images and music move together. So, I’ll get through it.
In any case, today, I got a phone call from the Duke Nurse that I worked with that day. Here is what I heard from her. I’m going to write from her perspective without my responses or interruptions just because that’s how I hear it in my head.”
“Aimee …. I just wanted to call and thank you for coming out on Monday. The family has been here all week and they have talked about you often. I am just so amazed that an organization like this exists and am so glad that you were willing to come out. Samantha’s funeral is today and in the obituary, the family has asked that donations go to Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep. They have talked about how kind you were and what a gift this will bring to them. I loved what you said when you walked in — about being a twin mom. It really mattered to hear that. Your time, your care, everything. Pam’s mom came up to me at one point and said, “You know what really got me? She cried with us,” which just goes to show you how important that connection is for these families. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.”
Ok. Once again, tears flow. Marie and I would never like to meet again, but we know that we will, unfortunately. She even told me that she only wants me to come out … but she and I both know that won’t be 100% possible, and I’ve encouraged her to establish relationships with other photographers. This isn’t about competition. This is about giving back and bringing joy to families. No, not everyone can do it, but for those that can, words like that above are all the thanks we need.