It’s an unfathomable loss, an experience no parent ever plans on facing. But, losing a child is reality for the select few who are part of a club no parent wants to be part of. The summer months will always be difficult for me and my husband. Four years ago, we welcomed our first and only children to this world. What should have been the best moments of our lives, quickly turned to heartache as we cradled two of our triplets as they passed away in our arms. Within two months of their birth, we had to plan two funerals. Parker and Abby only lived a short time, but their imprint on this world will last a lifetime. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed, the summer months will always bring us back to the days of the NICU rollercoaster and the reality of leaving the hospital with only one survivor.
Over the years, we have found life after loss. We truly are happy and feel so blessed to have our amazing (and feisty) daughter, Peyton, here with us today. Through our triplets, we found new purpose in life–a chance to give back to others after being lifted up in prayer and support by thousands of people around the world. Our non-profit charity, Triple Heart Foundation, has become our baby; a pet project that blossomed into so much more. As we close in on one year being an official 501(c)(3), we wanted to celebrate and honor our children in a big way. That’s why we created “55 Days of Summer”.
“55 Days of Summer” is our push to help NICU families in a huge way. Our son, Parker, lived for 55 days and this is our way to honor him and his sister, Abigail, all the while celebrating our miracle child, Peyton. So what is our goal? $5500. It extremely ambitious, and may be a crazy idea, but we’re up for the challenge! Life handed us an entire tree of lemons four years ago and we still managed to make lemonade. And here’s the crazy thing–our ambitious idea is paying off! In less than two weeks, we have raised more than $1,500!!!
So how can you help us achieve the impossible? It’s easy–Simply spread the word! The power of social media and word of mouth is amazing. Would your business be interested in setting up book drive or “jeans day” at work? We’d love to stop by and share our mission with your employees. Is your girl scout troop interested in a bake sale? We’ll be first in line to buy baked goods!
“55 Days of Summer” is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a chance to see the random acts of kindness that help make our world a better place. Over the past four years, strangers around the world have embraced our family. They’ve lifted us up in prayer, and sent us well wishes and condolences. Strangers have made our children blankets and hats, created beautiful jewelry to honor our triplets and have shown compassion and warmth, reminding us of how much good is in this world. Triple Heart Foundation is our way to pay it forward, to help NICU families who are in the thick of a difficult journey. The “55 Days of Summer” picture was painted by our daughter, Peyton, who is now 4-years-old. In addition to the sun, she painted a blue dinosaur that is “chasing the sun”….she sure does have a wild imagination!
We were amazed at the impact a simple book could help NICU families. A $5 board book brings a level of comfort to families who may not be able hold their frail baby. It’s also proven that reading helps brain development in premature babies. So it’s a win-win! In addition to books and special gifts we’ll be delivering later this summer, we’re also raising money for families who have endured the heartbreak of loss. Parents who experience the unimaginable will be given special journals and grief coloring books as an outlet to begin the healing process.
Throughout the summer, we’ll be sharing stories of hope and miracles, as we highlight fellow NICU families who have been touched by Triple Heart Foundation. We hope you join us for the ride! Make sure to follow our charity’s Facebook page: Triple Heart Foundation
For more information on how to donate, visit our website: www.TripleHeartFoundation.com
If you’d like to donate books, here’s our Amazon Wishlist!