St. Gianna Expressions of Gratitude
Kelly Wilhelm -
Expressions of Gratitude and Inspiration (from nurses)
The Church of St. Mary was one of the initial parishes that identified with the simplicity of this ministry and was instrumental in how the St. Gianna Sewing Guild was started in May of 2005. This apostolate has been a labor of love. Everyone who contributes items does so with much love put into their items!! I never cease to be amazed at the lovely items that are donated.
The simplicity of St Gianna's intercession not only for these families but for those who makes these lovely items makes this apostolate one that touches not only the grieving families but those who create them. Some sew as a way of thanksgiving for their healthy babies and childbirth, some as a way to heal from their own loss of an infant." Susie Spanier, Diocesan Coordinator of St. Gianna.
A thank-you card received from Maggie Smith, Director of the Perinatal Bereavement Program at St. Francis Hospital:
“I would like to express our deep appreciation for the beautiful infant gowns and blankets you are madding for the Perinatal Bereavement Program. At a time when our families are grief stricken and struggling to cope minute to minute these gowns fill a need in their lives. Often they come back weeks or months later to express their gratitude for the care received and the beautiful mementos of their baby. This gown and blanket are often the only clothes their baby ever had. Your gift touches their lives!! Thank you so much for giving of yourself, your time and your love.”
A thank-you note from RN at St. Francis Hospital:
“We used one of the burial gowns last Thursday on a 32 week baby that had died in utero – he wore a blue gown with sailboats on the bodice – the parents were so grateful to be able to dress him in something so beautiful, as they had just found out that day that his heart beat had stopped, and of course had no time to prepare. I took his picture late that night, on a blue velvet background with blue tulle around him in an oval shape, with a ceramic gold angel in front of him – he looked like an angel resting peacefully. You have not idea how much the work you do means to all of us – the boxes the gowns come in are a perfect size to put the plaster hand and foot prints in – it truly makes a memory box for the parents. Please pass along our gratefulenss to each of the members working on this project. God is truly working each day thru all of you.”
A thank-you note from RN at St. Francis Hospital and Xavier Clinic:
“I work in Labor and Delivery at St. Francis and also volunteer at Xavier Clinic. I have seen your beautiful gowns – our staff has been overwhelmed by your generosity in making such a beautiful remembrance for our grieving parents.
"Working with grieving parents can be quite a struggle for staff at times. Last December we had the most losses we have ever had in a 30 day period of time – I believe we say 20. Despite the fact that our nurses struggle with their own feelings of sadness and grief, the rewards in helping parents begin their grieving process are great…when parents come back to talk to staff about their initial care in the hospital it helps us learn so much. Most are very appreciative of the listening ear we offer, and the kindness and dignity we give during the time of their loss. What a gift compassionate care and service to others can be! I want to commend you on your assistance to staff and parents at this most difficult time in their lives. Your group has been a blessing! Thank you so much for your time and someday I would love to meet this group of “angels” behind your project!"
