I spent the past week on vacation with my family. I was effectively out of the Internet/Social Media/Twitter world.
The few times I checked my blackberry and took a glance at Twitter, I saw a lot of this: #Maddie. I saw a lot of tweets about ‘Maddie’ and prayers for ‘Maddie’. I suspected the news was bad.
But I didn’t know the whole story.
I am now home. I have now read the whole story. I now know the light went out of Heather and Mike’s world on April 7th.
I don’t know the family. And yet, I feel like I do – just a little. I know enough to sit at my computer at midnight on a Sunday night and cry. I know enough to hurt, deep down in my soul for them. I know enough to be amazed by the true and unbelievable outpouring of support I have seen in the short time I have been home and online. I know enough to want to help in some small, seemingly insignificant way.
I mean really – how can a stranger living in the middle of the country possibly help? I can donate to help the family – hoping to ease the financial burden of two parents who aren’t working. I imagine the money strain must be heavy but I think the emotional burden of burying your sweet baby girl must be devastating. You can also donate to the March of Dimes – the family has requested this in lieu of flowers.
More than anything, I wish I could give them both a hug – not because it would make it any better, but because, maybe, just maybe, it might help to be held – at least for a moment.
So – I am sending virtual hugs and I will be praying. Tonight. Tomorrow. Tuesday. And every day after that. I will pray for Sweet Maddie. And I will pray for Heather and Mike – that the amazing support they are receiving will help – even a little.
For more information on all things Maddie, visit a wonderful family friend. She has also set up a Mr. Linky so you can let the Spohr family know if you posted about Maddie.
If you want a copy of a button for Maddie – or just want to read a beautiful post by someone who actually did know Heather, Mike and Maddie: visit one of my favorite writers.
There is certainly another angel in heaven tonight.
Heather and Mike, I am so terribly sorry.
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