Four years ago, on December 15, at St. Paul Hospital in Hong Kong, you were born during Covid. Mommy still remembers your first cry; the first time I held you in my arms; the first time I fed you in the middle of the night; the first time you and Garlie met; the first time you fed yourself; the first time you walked like a little old grandma; and the first time you hit a softball—that was a great hit!
Every day, I endlessly ask myself what happened, why, and what if... Every month around the 25th, and on all the important dates of your life, mommy is swallowed by sorrow, as if the whole nightmare starts again—from the moment I saw you lying in the bed, covered by tubes; how mommy cleaned your teeth and your body; how they took your body away; how I held your cold body at the funeral home for hours until they asked me to go home; how they closed your casket, and that was the last time I saw your beautiful face. I remember how your brother carefully collected all the prayer cards and placed them into your casket. Mommy cried and screamed, “No, no… come back, my baby… no, no… no…”
People say they don’t know how we survive. I don’t know either. But here we are—almost four months since you passed. I believe it is because of the strength and love from our family, friends, and community, and because you give me strength. Mommy wants you to continue living through me, as part of a healthy and strong mommy. I know that one day we will reunite in Heaven, and until then, you are there—still living, still joining us from Joy of Heaven.
When I feel sad or frustrated, I can hear your voice: “No one can beat me!” “Mommy is my best friend. I love you!” and “Garlie, hustle, hustle.” Those words keep me going and help me smile. Every morning and every night, I can hear you saying, “Mommy, good morning,” and “Good night, I love you,” with your thumb in your mouth – as if that’s the most delicious food in the world.
Your friends at Ivybrook built a beautiful rainbow garden for you. I know it will be so beautiful when spring comes—just like you. You loved art and always wanted to create something beautiful.
Yesterday your brother baked an angel cake for you. He even made a beautiful heart that could stand on the cake using two candy canes. It was the most beautiful cake I have ever seen. I know you would have loved it.
Myra, we miss you, sweetheart. Mommy loves you—always.