Apr 24, 2008 3:23 pm US/Pacific
Bay Photographer Documents Terminally Ill Infants
(CBS 5)
It's one of the saddest things a parent could ever face-- the death of an infant. But a new Bay Area group is helping to ease the pain by providing a service the families can hang on to forever.
Christina Andresen and her boyfriend were thrilled when they found out they were having a baby girl. But five months into the pregnancy, Andreson learned the baby would likely die soon after birth. "We found out she has trisomy 13, which is a chromosomal defect," said Andreson.
So the family is clinging to hope, but also, confronting reality. "We've already talked with funeral homes and stuff like that," said Andreson.
Helping them through their emotional journey is Jessica Westfall, a professional photographer in San Jose. Her portraits have won awards, but the Andresen family has won her heart.
Westfall is part of a national organization that volunteers to take photos of families whose babies are terminally ill. The services are completely free, provided by photographers who know that through their camera, every image of every little foot, every little hand, is a lasting one.
"Your memory will fade over time," said Westfall. "I create these images because I know the family will have these to treasure."
Westfall is starting a Bay Area chapter of the group, called Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep.
"It's hard," said Westfall. "Especially the first few sessions I had. I came home crying. It was heartbreaking."
Heartbreaking - yet heartwarming - to be there for the families. Shortly after Andreson gave birth to baby Zoe, Westfall was there, capturing memories.
Experts used to warn parents not to bond with babies who wouldn't survive for long-- the pain would be too hard.
But looking at the photos, Andreson believes they're a way to heal. "They just make it to where a horrible situation comes out beautiful," said Andreson. "It's more of some way to cherish her."
For more information, contact Jessica Westfall at (408) 998-3342 or visit nowilaymedowntosleep.org.
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