We entered this spring season eagerly anticipating the arrival of our first child, Robin, who was already so loved by his family, his friends, and his community. We felt a mixture of fear and excitement, but most of all, we were ready to begin our parenting journey together. Our lives were completely upended when, on April 3rd, about a week and half before his due date, we learned that Robin no longer had a heartbeat.
When we learned that Robin had passed away, we were in the hospital separated from our loved ones by a severe storm. We were alone in our grief, in a moment that felt removed from time and space. Everything stopped; our hopes, dreams, and plans for the future suddenly felt meaningless. It felt too awful to keep going in a world that would allow something like this to happen.
Amidst that darkness, we found kindness and support through Madeline’s Mission. We were able to hold our son and spend precious time with him after his birth thanks to the cuddle cot the organization generously donated to Midcoast Hospital. They have helped us connect to the strong community of families who know the indescribable pain of losing a child. And their founder, Amie, has offered her own time and energy to support us at every turn.
We would like to honor Robin by adding a butterfly in his name to the Madeline's Mission Children’s Memorial Garden, where we and others will be able to visit and remember him. The garden is a sanctuary for families who have experienced child loss; a place where their little ones can live forever. Your donations will help us to purchase Robin’s butterfly and support other families who face this unfathomable loss.
All our love,
Ben, Tiarra, and Robin
Madeline's Mission Friends
Friends of Madeline's Mission Fundraising for Bereaved Families
Organized by Madeline's Mission
Benjamin Gray
Fundraiser since May 2024
Benjamin Gray's Story
Team Members
Benjamin Gray
Michael & Emily Melo
Amie
Story
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