Cora’s Story

The following is a guest post from Kristine, author of Instructions Not Included. Kristine’s story is one that has truly touched me. I ask that you join me in supporting her and helping to raise awareness for CHD.

Almost two weeks ago, my baby died in my arms. She was breastfeeding. My husband had just come up to caress her sweet little cheek. A serene, soft, beautiful moment that immediately cut to horror when I looked down and her face was covered in blood and she wasn’t breathing.

We’ve since learned Cora had an undetected congenital heart disease. My pregnancy, labor and delivery were all perfect. No issues. Good prenatal care. I didn’t even take an aspirin or drink one glass of wine the entire nine months I grew the sweet and precious gift inside of me. She looked like the healthiest of babies. Big rosy cheeks, a loud and angry cry when she was hungry, and she ate with vigor. She lived only five days.

Since her death, I’ve been on a mission.

A mission to spread her story.

I was amazed at how much she transformed my life from day one. In awe of the love she brought. She made me instantly a more patient person.

She has reached hundreds through the blogging community, but perhaps the most important work sweet Cora has done is within her own family.

My older sister and I were close as can be up until the last year. We’re only two years apart and shared everything with each other. Then we had a falling out. She disapproved of my husband. My engagement to him was the last straw for her. She stopped talking to me. Completely. When I called her to tell her I was pregnant, she said “Oh, God” and hung up. We didn’t really talk after. An awkward happy birthday phone call was about it. She never met Cora. I thought we’d forever be lost to each other.

When Cora died my sister boarded a plane as fast as she could. She cried at the funeral. She felt guilt for not meeting her sweet niece. She calls me almost daily now. We learned the most important lesson possible, without family you have nothing. People are all that really matter.

I’m amazed by all that Cora has accomplished in her five days. Starting with the work she’s done in her own family. Cora brought my sister back to me.

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I have learned so much from Kristine in these past few weeks. I am so impressed by her strength. She has reminded me of how precious life is. How important family is. How we complain about so much when really we have so much to be thankful for. She has reminded me of my  need to be patient with my daughter. Be open and honest with those around me. Life is short… I will continue to help spread Cora’s story and support Kristine by lifting her up in my prayers- I ask that you do the same. If you Tweet, you may follow Kristine on Twitter, she would appreciate your support.

** Dawana**

Tags: guest post, reflection, selfless acts, tragedy