Day 5: Memory

The memory that stands out most to me from Julia's life is the day she smiled for the first time. I have written about it a few times here already! :) She was nearly four and a half months old at the time. A newborn typically smiles by about 6 weeks, so 4.5 months was a long wait! When parents are given the very difficult news that their child has trisomy 18, many of them are told that their child, if they survive, will never be able to smile or interact with you. We knew well before 4.5 months that Julia could interact with us in her own way, but we were desperate to see her smile. On that blessed Sunday in April, she smiled the most amazing smile. And she smiled over and over again as we surrounded her and celebrated. Smiles of joy, of comfort, of hope, of love. Best day ever. 

This post is part of Carly Marie's Capture Your Grief Photography Challenge in honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. To learn more please visit http://carlymarieprojectheal.com.