We have “widow” and “orphan,” but there is no word to describe someone who has lost a child. I think it’s because the experience is unspeakable.
Today we mark Jasper’s fifth birthday, and the death of his twin brother Angus. It’s really tough to celebrate and mourn at the same time. Try finding a card for that at the Hallmark store. I should probably write it.
Ottawa is a good place to have a 1 ½ lb baby. The staff at the neonatal intensive care unit at the Ottawa Hospital (General Campus) was superb. Janet Brintnell is in charge of NICU nurses. She and her incredible team care for the most fragile people in our society, and their devastated parents. I’m not sure which is more difficult.
