5/19 - gratitude for four months

While I understand this may be difficult to read, I want to be honest and upfront with all of you. It is with a heavy heart that I let you know that at 11:10pm yesterday, May 18th, Layla left this world sleeping peacefully in mommy's arms. The details are somewhat complex, but essentially - Layla had respiratory and cardiac failure. After many attempts to keep her heart going, we disconnected her and allowed her to go to sleep in mommy's arms, free from tubes and cords and alarms.
We shared several hours of cuddles and love, and Layla is now somewhere else...without pain and without trauma. I believe Layla is with her Grandpa Richard who is spoiling her rotten and giving her all of the love and attention she deserves.
Layla fought with courage and hope for more than four months, and her precious body was ready to rest. I will never have the words to thoroughly express this, but I want to thank everyone who prayed for her and who loved on her and who sent happy, healthy vibes her way. Layla is an extraordinary human being, and I know without reservation that her life was very valuable.
I know it is often challenging to read something like this and wonder what to say or do...there is a more complete wish list coming, but in the meantime...

1. Keep sending those prayers and thoughts to NICU babies everywhere. Many of Layla's friends are still fighting, and we want to see them go home to their families.

2. Thank a nurse. Seriously. Layla's care team (made up of nurses, respiratory therapists, physician assistants, etc.) was exceptional, and my gratitude to all of them is immeasurable.

3. Spread awareness about maternal health and neonatal health. A healthy mommy helps a healthy baby, so let's please do what we can to help more mamas get to term without complication.

4. Cheesy, but hug your kids and the kids in your life. Children are blessings. I cannot believe how fortunate I was to know Layla for four months, and I have many joyful memories with her. Even though they can drive us nuts, all of our babies (young and old) are miracles. Love on them!

Thanks for supporting us through this journey, and know that Layla was privileged to have your thoughts and prayers headed her way. I'm sure she will watch over all of you.

Love.
P.S. This is a personal favorite pic. :) it's Layla with dukes up - fighting like always.