In the hospital Georgia was sometimes agitated, and often the best comfort I could give her was to sing or hum along with the lullaby music we had. We had one Fisher-Price crib toy that would repeat "Twinkle, twinkle Little Star" over and over, and my voice would grow hoarse as I sung along to it, willing her heart and respiration rates to go down.
Twinkle, twinkle Little Star
With so much time singing it, I started to see the lyrics differently. Georgia was my Little Star, so very brave, and the twinkling of her beautiful eyes was a glimpse into the brightness of her soul.
How I wonder what you are...
When Georgia was younger Kristen used to repeat the story of how on the island of Bali, newborn babies are considered "not of this earth" and aren't allowed to touch the ground until 100 days old. All newborns have that otherworldly essence, but the story seemed particularly applicable to Georgia, and she was a constant source of wonder from birth through her last days.
Up above the world so high, like a diamond in the sky
On the day she was diagnosed with SMA, I told Kristen that I felt somehow that Georgia had the soul of a traveler. She was here to experience life with us, to bask in our love and to bring us unexpected joy. And while she could only stay for a short time we could take comfort in knowing that she was moving on to continue her journey, her purpose.
Goodbye, little star. Thank you for the light you left us: for shining, for guiding, for being you. And good luck -- wherever your heavenly orbit takes you.
(note: cross-posted with Kristen's post below)
Happy 11th Birthday Emersyn
5 years ago
I am so, so sorry. I know that is hardly adequate. Your Georgia was such a beautiful baby and I know she will always be in your hearts. Sincerely, Victoria Strong -- Mom to Gwendolyn, SMA Type 1
ReplyDeleteMike I am so sad and so sorry. Georgia was a little star, and the world was lucky to see her twinkling, even just for a little bit.
ReplyDeleteI'm sitting here, staring at my computer, with tears streaming down my face, trying to think of what to write or say to you and I just don't know. I wish that I had been able to meet Georgia and watch her grow up. I wish I wasn't so far away. I wish life wasn't so capricious. I wish you and Kristen didn't have to live with this pain.
What you wrote today was so beautiful, and so true, and it has made me think of your request earlier for ideas of how to memorialize Georgia. I couldn't think of anything at the time, but I think now that you should write her a story. Probably not today, or anytime soon, but someday, when you're strong enough...Let her go on adventures, and do all the things that she never got to. I think she would like that.
Love,
Peg
Hi Kristen & Mike;
ReplyDeleteWords cannot express how sorry I am for both of you. I remember when Krista called me with the news of Georgia's birth and told me her name. From the first moment I heard her name and saw her perfect little face, she was special...now we know why. She touched a lot of lives and hearts in her short time, and had the most incredible family and friends helping her through her journey.
I know there is nothing I can say to take away the pain...just know Freddie and are with with you in our thoughts. Many many many hugs and kisses to you Mike, Kristen and family. xoxoxoxoxo
Love Sherri
Kristen, Mike, Calla and Maya ....
ReplyDeleteWe are so very sad and sorry.
You are wonderful parents, and sisters. We hope you can take comfort in knowing that Georgia felt how much she was loved by all of you. And if she could have hand picked her family, she would have picked you.
You are in our hearts and prayers.
God bless you Georgia Lily ... lots of love, hugs and kisses,
Ingrid and John Silvari
Mike, Kristen and family
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear about Georgia. You all are a remarkable family; such a tangible bond you all share. I hope that love will offer you comfort in the times ahead.
I am thinking of you all,
Gillian Nattress
gnatress@shaw.ca
Mike & Kristen,
ReplyDeleteI am sitting in front of my computer, absolutely devestated after reading this. The time we all spend with each other is so precious, and the time you all spent with Georgia was a blessing indeed. I wish I was there with you both, my best friend since Grade 6 and his loving wife. I'd give anything to be able to give you both a hug right now.
I believe that Georgia will watch over us all.
God Bless.
- Chris & the Ward-Close family.
We're With YouWhen you miss them,we're with you in spirit,wondering how you feel,hoping you're coping,and getting a little better each day.We understand. We care.When you're grieving,we're beside you,in our hearts, in our thoughts,we're sending you sympathy,encouragement, affection,and strength to carry on with life.They would want it that way.
ReplyDeleteDear Lucas Family,
ReplyDeleteI was told of your story recently and I am truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine how difficult this journey has been for you.
My youngest is very close in age to Georgia and so I became quite emotional at your experience. I kept thinking, "what would I do" and "how would I handle everything". Your family is absolutely remarkable, I'm not sure I would have the same strength.
Too often we become infatuated with the trivial problems that life will inevitably present. Its times like this however, that makes you stop and put life into perspective. Unfortunately this is often said but seldom preserved.
But if we could all keep someone special in our hearts to remind us that life is beautiful and hug and kiss your children every opportunity you have, I'm certain this message would not be lost.
I will keep Georgia's story in my heart forever. She will be my inspiration.
God Bless.
Mike, Kristen and family
ReplyDeleteThank you for your continued sharing of thoughts, emotions and stories of sweet Georgia. We are saddened by your loss, but so inspired by your strength and spirit.
As you say goodbye to your "little star", I thought I'd share another thought that we came across from another sight, shortly after learning about SMA (www.ourshootingstar.com).
"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky,
But rather openings where our loved ones
shine down to let us know they are happy." - Eskimo Legend
God bless Georgia and all of you,
Glen
Dear Kristen, Mike, Calla and Maya,
ReplyDeleteWe have no words to describe how sad we are for you all. Our thoughts and prayers have been with you so often over the last little while, and we will continue to pray for you. Take solace in the fact that you gave Georgia the most loving and secure life that any little angel could possible receive and that your strength did help her. Dear little Georgia, you will never be forgotten. I know that you will shine down brightly on your loving parents and two wonderful big sisters and give them peace.
Sending huge hugs to all of you,
All our love,
Rick, Paula, Emma and Maggie Busch
Thank you for sharing your little angel's painful journey and bringing awareness to the cause of SMA research. I'm sure that there were times when it was hard to write your touching, personal moments down here for all to see. It is an inspiration to read and know how strong both of you are being, not only for you, but also for Calla and Maya. Many people couldn't handle such loss and grief with the grace you've displayed.
ReplyDeleteI heard about your family's struggle only Monday, and I'm sorry that I couldn't somehow do something to ease your pain.
My 2 year old daughter Evan-Leigh was in a gymnastics class with Maya. I also have a 6 yr old daughter, Alex and an 8 month old son, Quinn. I hug them a little tighter now when I think of you and of Georgia. If there is any way in which I could help, perhaps a playdate for the girls or a meal for your family, please don't hesitate to let me know.
Malisa Carey
carey_76@hotmail.com
Mike and Kristen,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your thoughts with us, I know it must be so hard right now. I know you both will keep talking, about Georgia and your journey, to help others, to educate about SMA and to keep the memory of Georgia alive-know that she will never be forgotten, she is truly deep within all of us, as your whole family is.
I can't imagine how hard today will be for you, but know we are all out here sending positive thoughts and prayers for strength for all of you as you take each day as it comes. You aren't going to feel strong all the time, you are naturally going to fall apart at such a loss, but we will continue to pray for the strength for you return to your feet, to be there for eachother, Calla and Maya, and we know you will do amazing things in Georgia's name. She is shining down on us, knowing how much she was and will continue to be loved. She will be smiling at the silly things her sisters continue to do and will be smiling when she sees and feels the love you have for your family.
She has taught us all to hug eachother a little tigher, to appreciate each day and to know that it truly is a gift and for that we are truly thankful. Thank you Georgia, and to you both for sharing your hearts and life with us....you are both an inspiration and are helping so many people-we just wish there was something more we could do for you. We will continue to tell all who will listen about "Your Angel" and spread the word about SMA...truly the least we can do. Our love to you both, Calla and Maya and all the other family and friends surrounding you-may you all find a bit of peace knowing how much Georgia was loved.
Love Em
That was Beautiful :o) Georgia sure was loved and blessed to share time with your family.
ReplyDeleteDear Kristen, Mike, Calla and Maya,
ReplyDeleteSince the moment I learnt of Georgia's passing I've been trying to find the appropriate words to write here to comfort you all. As much as I'd love to make all your pain go away, I've come to realize that anything I say here won't take your pain away. May you at least find comfort in knowing that so many people are thinking of you and praying for you and that a cure for SMA will come sooner because of Georgia and how you've shared her story. Thank you so much for sharing Georgia with us whether it was in person or by this blog. If there is anything we can do for you, please call on us. We'd love to help!!
Lorna, Ken, Elijah and Hayden Blue
I am really sad to hear the news.
ReplyDeleteI really feel this blog has been wonderful for you guys to cope and i am feeling amazed and happy at all the support and love that is coming your way.
Be strong for each other ok!
Thinking of you all
Babies Never Die - They Go to be With God
ReplyDeleteBecoming Angels in the Sky
We do not know
Why babies are called home.
There is only one who knows,
And that is God alone.
They arrive their safely
At the gate of everlasting life.
Lovingly they are ushered in,
To the land with no more strife.
They enter into "forever"
Where they will never grow old.
There they will live in a place of beauty
With streets paved with marble and gold.
They become the Holy One's angels,
Receiving shiny new halos that glow.
They are adorned with strong new wings
And with angelic white robes that flow.
These angels shine up the sun
To new brilliance each day.
They put tails on puppies, whiskers on kittens.
They put colorful wings on butterflies, as they play.
Baby angels put sparkle into every moonbeam,
They mix soft colors for the rainbow,
They add glitter to the stars to make them gleam,
Brining joy wherever they go.
They tend God's sacred garden of flowers
And nurture them with loving care.
In the creator's presence they wile away the hours,
In this place called heaven - a land so fair.
On warm days they stir up a gentle breeze,
At dusk they give rise to a colorful new moon,
When tired, they rest on the Father's knees,
As they watch a new butterfly rise from its cocoon.
Angels teach spiders how to build a web,
They put new leaves and blossoms on trees,
They show thunder how to get our attention,
They paint black and yellow striped on bumblebees.
At Christmas angels create star shaped snowflakes,
They give flying creatures their wings,
They mix special paint for majestic sunsets,
Angels are tasked with many great things.
Georgia is now an angel
In the land of perfect peace,
The place we know as "paradise",
Where eternal beauty and goodness never cease
A Man in Grief
ReplyDelete(Eileen Knight Hagemeister)
To be a man in grief,
Since "men don't cry" and "men are strong"
No tears can bring relief.
It must be very difficult
To stand up to the test
And field calls and visitors
So she can get some rest.
They always ask if she's all right
And what she's going through,
But seldom take his hand and ask,
"My friend, but how are you?"
He hears her crying in the night
And thinks his heart will break.
He dries her tears and comforts her,
But "stays strong" for her sake.
It must be very difficult
To start each day anew
And try to be so very brave--
He lost his baby too.
DON'T CRY FOR ME DADDY
Don't cry for me Daddy,
I am right here.
Although you can't see me,
I see your tears.
I visit you often,
I go to work with you each day,
And when it's time to close your eyes,
On your pillow is where I lay.
I hold your hand and stroke your hair,
And whisper in your ear.
If your sad today Daddy
Remember I am here.
God took me home,
This we know is true.
But you'll always be my Daddy,
Even though I'm not with you.
I am Daddy's little girl,
We will never be apart,
For every time you think of me,
Please know I'm in your heart.
Kristen and family,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear bout your loss. May you find peace amongst your sorrow. This is a beautiful blog, and thank you for sharing Georgia's story. Thinking and praying for you during this time...
Kristen & Michael. My heart goes out to you and there are no words that will bring back your beautiful daughter, but, knowing how many lives she has touched may give you comfort. Michael as you know, I have a handicapped son, Billy, who has suffered for 19 years with poor health from a severe seizure disorder. We are frequent visitors to the hospitals and each time I am unsure if Billy will be leaving. I always ask God "why" each time but I believe that I know the answer now. Billy is here to teach us on earth that you need to live each day as if it is your last day. Stop focussing on bigger and better, but celebrate that the sun rose and that doors squeak and bubbles float. I believe that God has sent Billy as a teacher and has entrusted him to my care until He wants Billy back. You know that Georgia too was sent to teach people and that God has a new plan for her. A place where there is no more pain, but only bubbles and sunshine, is where your little girl has gone to be reunited with our Father. May God's arms tighten around you every minute of every day. Know that you have many friends praying and keeping Georgia's spirit alive. God bless.
ReplyDelete