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2009
It has been 18 months since we lost Michael. In some ways it seems like forever, and in some ways it seems like it was just yesterday.

Exactly 16 months after delivering Michael, on January 13th, 2009, we welcomed Brady Patrick into our family. We were scheduled to have a c-section on January 16th, but that was not to be. My water broke, labor started, and 4 hours later we were holding our precious bundle of joy.

We believe that Michael had something to do with Brady coming on the 13th. We ended up in the same room that we had delivered Michael in. It was bittersweet to be holding Brady in my arms, when 16 months before we were in the same room and I was holding Michael in the palm of my hand. The doctor scheduled to do my c-section was not on when I went into labor…instead it was the wonderful doctor who had delivered Michael. Our angel was definitely with us that night, as he has been since he left us.

Life is good. Chaotic and crazy at times, but good. It is weird to think that Brady would not be here if it wasn’t for losing Michael. Brady is a wonderful baby and has brought us so much happiness. We can’t imagine life without him.

We are looking forward to this year’s walk and to making more children’s wishes come true. We love and miss you, Michael!

2011
In April of 2010, I went to Pittsburgh for RTS training (training and support services so I can help care for bereaved families). While I was away, my then 3 1/2 year old daughter, wished on a star for a baby sister. Two weeks after I returned, we found out we were expecting another baby!! We knew it had to be a girl, since that is what Brooke wished for. After having our wonderful son, Brady, in 2009, I had a miscarriage, and then an ectopic pregnancy. Those losses, in addition to the loss of Michael, were in the back of my mind all during the pregnancy. Luckily, we are surrounded by many caring friends and family who offer so much support. Not to mention I had the best prenatal care around!! On December 17, 2011, Brooke got her wish. Her sister, Alyssa Rose Donovan arrived – perfect in every way. She is such a happy baby. We are blessed. Our family is complete – we couldn’t be happier.

Life is very busy. Blake will be starting first grade in the fall and Brooke will be in kindergarten. Brady and Aly will keep mom busy at home. There are other activities too…gymnastics, dance, swim lessons, t-ball. Since completing my RTS training, I have helped run the pregnancy and infancy loss support group at Frisbie Hospital. It is what I want to continue to do. I know Michael is watching over all of us and he is so proud of all we have accomplished…and all because of him. He is with us everyday, in so many ways. He will always be in our hearts. We love you, Michael!