It's been over a year...

[Cheryl Haggard]

Hello guys,

I am writing this for my husband. (Of course, he doesn't know this.)
I know men and women, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers grieve differently, but neverless, we still grieve. We still share the same broken heart after the death of our babies. Mike and I lost Maddux, and I personally know how hard it is to get my husband to open up and talk to others regarding his heartache. And I don't see alot of fathers posting here, so...Us women, wives and mothers have to get it started.

Just 2 days ago, my husband ran into an old friend that he hadn't seen in probably a year and a half. Mike said that they greeted eachother friendly. His friend then went on, and said "The last time I saw you, you and your wife were getting ready to have a baby." "What did you have, and how many does that make now?" Mike then went on to tell him that we had a little boy, and that Maddux died when he was 6 days old. His friend was mortified, and speechless. He didn't know what to say. He hadn't heard and he didn't know. Of course, Mike told him it was ok and he tried to make him feel comfortable.

Mike was telling me this over the phone, and I told him that "this situation happens more than you think." He then replies, "No, this happens more than anyone can ever care to imagine.

I think my husband handeled this beautifully. I'm not saying it was easy for him. I don't think it will ever be easy, but...

Thanks for listening.
Cheryl Haggard

[Martin Comiskey]

Cheryl,

I think your husband handled it the way any man would. We are taught from the time we are children (not so much by our parents) but from the world around us that we are not to show any kind of weekness. Do not cry, ever! It was not until I became saved that I realized men are aloud to show emotion. It doesn't seem odd any longer to see anyone cry or show tears of joy or sorrow. Just my two cents.
Martin

[Scott Hays]

Mike is very special. Of course, you know that. The story speaks volumes about him. I'm glad to hear that he's able to speak of Maddux and tell his story. What a positive step that is. So many fathers and mothers wouldn't have the ability to talk about their children. Kudo's for Mike...