I didn’t know her, that sweet little imp with the big eyes and even bigger grin. I’ve never met her; possibly never would have, but my heart hurts knowing that little Maddie is no longer with us. It aches for her mom and dad, the loss unimaginable. As a parent, nothing compares to the fear of losing a child; I can assume nothing hurts quite like it either.

I know that she was born far too soon and left this earth far too early as well. I know she spent 68 days in the NICU after she was born; that she beat the odds to go home. I know that she was gaining weight and progressing in her development well these days.  I know that the sparkle in her eyes from pictures and video never failed to get me to smile. I know her parents are devastated. I only hope that the outpouring of love from the internet – from people who know them in “real” life and otherwise – gives them some sort of comfort in the coming days. Heather and Mike love that little girl with all their hearts and it showed.

If you are so inclined to do something for this family, they have asked for donations to the March of Dimes in her name in lieu of flowers.  Please help this from happening to another family – it’s about all we can do now for little Maddie.

Rest in peace, sweetie.

Madeline Spohr