Ronald Vincent Raymond
Born May 10, 1975
Died September 15, 1975
Happy Birthday to Ronny.....he would have been 36 years old today.
He died when he was 4 months and five days old.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
SIDS is the sudden, unexplained death of an infant younger than one year old. Most SIDS deaths happen when babies are between 2 months and 4 months of age. It is the leading cause of death in children between one month and one year of age.
However, the number of deaths due to SIDS has decreased dramatically since 1975.
The Back to Sleep campaign was started in the early 1990's to emphasize the message that infants should be placed on their back to sleep. Since parents and caregivers began following this recommendation, the number of SIDS deaths has decreased by over 50 percent.
Four or five years after Ronny died Bill bought a gold charm for me. It was part of a special fundraiser for (what was then) a local chapter of the National Foundation of Sudden Infant Death.
The charm is called the "SIDS Tree".
The SIDS Tree is now used as the logo for a non-profit in Illinois.
"The tree depicted with a single leaf fallen to the ground has symbolized Sudden Infant Death Services of Illinois since its inception. The fallen leaf is a symbol of the infant who has died. That leaf, which would have eventually developed into an entire branch of our family tree has died and fallen away.
The promise of that life will never be realized, yet, this tree is also a hopeful symbol of life. Despite the loss of this leaf, the tree continues to grow and flourish. Over time, new leaves are added, some others may have fallen off. The cycle of life continues and there is hope...."
This charm is so precious to me. As it turned out, after Ronny died (the leaf that fell) I had four more children (the leaves still on the tree). How perfect. It's such a sweet remembrance.
7 comments:
Good Morning Marie Sweetie...
Happy Birthday to Ronnie. What a precious face and his smile priceless. I know that he watches over you from above each and every day, and waits for the day you cross over.
I love the charm from your husband, and I have not seen this before. It is beautiful, and how meaningful. I only learned about putting the babies on their backs when our grands were born. (Mine were born in the late 70s and early 80s and we always rolled them on their sides.)
Hugs to you today sweetie. May you be surrounded with love, Sherry
Happy Birthday Ronnie... and special hugs for you!
Hope you have a good day!
*hugs*
Debbie K
Thanks for posting your story about precious baby Ronnie. It takes courage to share these sorrowful and tragic events in our lives. But when we do, it gives others courage to share too. And it is such an important part of healing. 10-10-10 would have been the 35th day of birth and death for my third child, Andrew Carl. You might be able to visit my post. Blessings to you and all mothers of baby angels. ~~Sue
Marie, I wish for him a very happy birthday. I realize 36 years is a long time...but as I read your post I felt you were truly at peace with this part of your life. Most of with never be dealt this kind of tragedy in our lifetime..you are a very strong woman and I admire that.
Angie
Thinking of you on this day of Ronnie's birthday! The gold charm is so special and meaningful.
After Jesus, seeing Ronnie in heaven will be incredible! I am sure, you can only imagine.
Love Lorraine
A very special birthday wish to Ronny. What a beautiful charm.
What a touching post--you sweet thing. How brave you must be to be trusted with this sweet angel. He's still yours my dear...you'll see. Your necklace is a precious gift. I have a close friend that has two little angels. You both inspire me.
:}
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