First let me say that I am very sorry for all the losses and
heartaches shared here, and the personal stories have all touched me
deeply. Here is my dilemma, and I hope someone can help me soon. I
had a baby die at 19+ weeks 5 years ago, delivered him, mourned him,
and am now living again thanks to my family and my faith. I
received a call from my priest today regarding a young family in our
parrish who has just learned her child is ancephalic. They are new
to the parrish and know almost no one here. The priest asked me to
be a support for her. I spoke with her for the first time today,
and her plan is to carry the child as long as she can. Apparently
the degree to which this child is affected is such that the doctors
are certain the defect will be terminal, but whether before or after
birth is uncertain. She asked me a question that I just couldn't
answer, however, because her situation is slightly different than
mine...it was, "What do I say to people when I meet them and they
see I'm pregnant, but I know my outcome won't be a happy one?"
Please tell me your stories asap so I can offer your suggestions to
her. Meanwhile, I do plan to tell her about this support forum in
case she has internet access and can benefit from it.
Thanks for any help you can offer, and God bless you and your
special babies.
Jo