Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep

Last Monday morning I received a call from a nurse at a local hospital saying they had a young woman who had come in to deliver her little girl but the child had died.  I was asked if I would come in and photograph their last moments together.  I was called because I belong to an organization of photographers, NILMDTS (Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep) who freely give of their time and skills to help preserve the precious memories of those who have or will be soon losing their child.  This was my first time being called and I have often wondered if I would be mentally prepared for what I would encounter.  Being involved in preserving the memories of a passing child with their parents made my comfort level, rather trivial.  I immediately packed up my gear. When I arrived the nurse shared with me a few of the details so I would have a better understanding what they had gone through that morning.  As I entered the room I found the couple crying and staring at their little girl, Guadalupe, who was laying motionless in a bassinet right next to her mother's bed. I asked if they had any requests and shared with them what I would like to do and they agreed.  The father who was very emotional asked not to be photographed.  The nurse laid Guadalupe on her mother’s chest. I asked the mother to just spend some quite time with her child, and not pay any attention to me. What I tried to capture was them being alone and the closeness between a mother and child during a very difficult time.  Having the honor of capturing those precious moments is one of the most important and satisfying moments I’ve had as a photographer.

Any one interested in finding out more about NILMDTS or wanting to donate can CLICK HERE