Today our little family participated in a wonderful event, as noted in the title as the Child of My Heart Walk to Remember. It was created by the Knoop family who lost their little boy, James Bennett, in 2001. We were able to meet Lisa Knoop, James' mommy, this morning and were suprised to find out James was born on July 28th as well. It was sort of a, "can you say that again?" moment, since Max and James share the same birthday - different years of course. The walk started at the Museum of Natural History with a quick overview of "why we were there" and an introduction to the Knoop Foundation's mission and new web site. The Knoop Foundation provides materials to UH's NICU such as preemie clothing, blankets, and materials for bereavement. So, we have benefitted from the foundation immensely. When we lost Max they provided most of the things we were able to take home as rememberances of him as well as the book, "Empty Cradle, Broken Heart." It was wonderful to meet this woman who through such pain was able to create such a wonderful, giving organization in memory of her son.
One of the things that struck us as she spoke was her stating how people didn't want her to talk about her son, to mention his name because they really just didn't know how to deal with such a loss. We have noticed how this is very true, and hope people know that it is not to make our family/friends uncomfortable but to help our little one live on. Today was a gift from the Knoop Foundation dedicated to helping families do just that. After the presentation we went outside to a notes-to-heaven balloon release, like at Max's party, and then walked a mile around University Circle. We all received t-shirts too - it was really sad and inspirational at the same time to see all of those shirts walking together to remember so many lost little ones.
It is our hope to return to the walk next year with more family and friends. Max will always be a member of our family, our new miracle can never take his place or heal our hearts. We hope that many of you will look forward to the invitation to the walk and future "To the Max" parties to help us keep his memory alive in a fun, positive way. To visit the Knoop Foundation, see www.childofmyheart.org
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Hi Jen - I am so happy that you were able to attend this special event in honor of our angels in Heaven. And how amazing is that that Max and James share the same birthday. Glad you were able to meet James' mom. Take care of yourself and that little guy growing. Denise :)
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