Teddy’s Friends

My sweet baby, Teddy Paul Jones, was still born on May 25th, 2010. It was the most devastating, heartbreaking moment in my life. It’s odd to lose a child that you never knew, and no one else knows either. The only memories I have of my sweet boy are the hiccups he had in my belly at 10pm every night, his little kicks and turns, and of course holding and seeing him for a few moments before he went to the funeral home. Even in our extreme grief, Jeff and I giggled with how much he looked like his brothers. Now, all I have is his grave marker. I go out a couple of times a year, edge it, clean and shine it, and place flowers. Just like anything for my boys, I want it to be the best! It is sad, but it gives me peace. It's something I can physically do to be his Mom. It will never be enough, but at least I have that. We were lucky. Floral Haven buries children in their beautiful Garden of Angels for free. However, the grave marker has to be purchased. We had help from family to get an amazing marker for Teddy's grave. There are so many babies at the cemetary that don’t have markers due to cost. Specifically, 3 babies right next to Teddy. It bothers me every time I go. I used to know their names because there was a temporary marker, but now, it is just grass. I feel like every child out there needs to have their name on their grave. They were here, they were loved, and they were lost. I want these babies' parents to know they are being thought of and have something to remember them by. So, I make a yearly donation in Teddy's name to Floral Haven to offer the parents assistance in getting markers placed for their sweet babies. Floral Haven has been an amazing partner with me in this effort! We are able to get markers for Teddy’s friends for $800 each with their help. We have placed 7 markers in the last 4 years and are working on marking more thanks to all of you!!! The pain of losing a child never eases, but helping these families makes it lighter. If you would like to give a few dollars in tribute to my birthday boy and all his friends. I would appreciate it! XOXO,