SHANNON & KEVIN

We chose to do this because we had to say goodbye to our son, Michael, before we even had a chance to say hello. We chose to turn something so devestating into something wonderful. We were very excited to be adding to our family. We have our son, Blake, who was born prematurely in May 2005, and our daughter, Brooke, who was born full-term in July 2006. Michael’s due date was February 2008, but at 16 weeks gestation, we lost him. I (Shannon) remember the ultrasound as if it were yesterday. Michael wasn't moving, there was no heartbeat, he was just so still. It's an image I can't get out of my mind. I went through 17 hours of labor and delivered Michael on September 13th, 2007. The cord was wrapped around his neck 5 times. He was 6 inches long and weighed 2 ounces. He had all of his parts...he was all there...just very tiny. I am grateful that we had the chance to hold him. I was sobbing and couldn’t speak, but Kevin told him how much we loved him.

Another angel joined Michael in January when I miscarried early in the pregnancy. We were saddened, but comforted by the thought that Michael has a sibling in heaven. We still hope to add to our family...

We believe there is a reason for everything. If we hadn’t lost Michael we wouldn't be helping to put together such a worthwhile event. We are very blessed and had an outpouring of support after our loss. Now it's our turn. We are doing this for our 2 angels in heaven, our 2 angels here on earth, our friends and their angels, all who have had similar losses, and for a child who deserves to have their wish come true.

Left to Right: little Michael’s hand, Blake & Brooke