BALENTINE MEMOIRS

On the third anniversary of Simon's death (May 21, 2017), I released a quick reference helpbook for those experiencing the loss of a child during pregnancy or infancy.  The purpose of this book is to provide support to the mother who hears the words, "I'm sorry there is no heartbeat."  It is a fingertip reference of my favorite resources. Weekly, I receive Facebook messages, emails, texts and phone calls from mothers, family and friends who have heard these words and are now in a fog of grief trying to navigate uncharted waters.  Moms and dads want time with their babies meeting them and loving on them.  Families and friends simply want to be able to do something for their loved ones walking through this loss.  The format is intentionally basic to provide direct links to real help. This e book is designed to assist in the following ways: To give the mom and dad a reminder that they can slow down and make the decisions they prefer.  Gathering the items...

The Gift of Time CuddleCot Campaign 2017 #simonsgiftoftime It is with much excitement and gratitude that we announce Kansas City gets another CuddleCot!  Thank you to each generous donor - you are our family, friends and even strangers.  So many of you don’t even live in Kansas City who donated as well!   That is an act of love and service to the bereaved mother.    More photos to come after the cot arrives and once it is donated to Research Memorial Center.  Thank you for your love and support.   With your help, the Balentines have donated cots to the following hospitals: -St. Luke's Hospital Kansas City (2015) -Children's Mercy Hospital (2015) -Truman Medical Hospital (2016) -Research Medical Center (2017) The following hospitals in Kansas City have cots.   -Shawnee Mission Medical Center (bought internally) -Overland Park Regaional Medical Center (donated by Bogle Family) -Menorah Medical Center (dona...

Simon Adam Balentine  May 14-21, 2014 {donate here} Tonight we begin the third anniversary celebration of Simon’s life.  On May 14, 2014 at 9:55pm, we welcomed  Simon Adam Balentine into this world.    Year after year, my mind travels effortlessly back to the moment Simon was born.  We weren’t sure if he would be alive as we decided to forgo fetal heart monitoring during labor.  We thought if he died before/during labor, it might be hard for me to continue to labor knowing his soul had been taken already.  He was moving at birth, arms and legs squirming – I didn’t even have to ask if he was alive.  I could see, he was!  My doctor placed Simon on my chest and all of the prayers from the previous five months had been graciously answered in that moment.  He breathed!  I shouted praises to God thanking Him for his mercy.  It wasn't long after his birth that we finally heard his voice.  It was heavenly (belo...