Tuesday, March 9, 2010

OUR LITTLE ANGEL



This video was done by an amazing friend who was able to capture Nathan's sweet essence. Please make sure your speakers are on, as the song is so appropriate for our little Nathan.

Some of you may already know this, but we wanted to share our story of the events of the past week. Our sweet little Nathan J Clark was delivered still born on March 3rd. I was 40 weeks and had heard a strong heartbeat the previous week. On March 2nd I was very emotional and couldn't stop crying. At the time I thought I must just have been tired and ready for my baby to be born. I continued to be worried through the night and the next morning was wondering the last time I had felt my baby move. I was two weeks early with my girls and didn't remember what it felt like to be 40 weeks along and knew my baby was big and did not have much room to move around. As the morning went on I grew more anxious and asked Jimmy to come to my scheduled final doctors appointment. As the doctor laid his fetal heart doppler on my belly, there was no sound. Immediately I knew my fears were a reality and my day was not going to be as planned. He followed with an ultrasound where it was confirmed that indeed the heart was not beating. We were taken down to labor and delivery where I would have to deliver this sweet baby. The labor was slow in comparison to my other three children and time seemed to be moving in slow motion. We were quickly surrounded by family and were shown great love and support from the hospital and nurses. Although we were in shock, we felt a sense of comfort and knew this was the will of our Heavenly Father. We went through many emotions and couldn't believe we were parents of a perfect child who just needed us to provide him with a mortal body so he could return and do the work of our Father in Heaven. The hardest part throughout our day was trying to figure out how to tell our children, especially Cameron. We knew he would understand and be our example of simple faith, and we were right. At 6:00, after one small push, our 8 lb 13 oz. 21 1/2 inch long baby boy was placed in our arms. Although there were many tears, there was a great spirit that filled that room. There was nothing that indicated to the doctor that there was something wrong with our baby. There was no cord entanglement of any kind, the placenta looked healthy, and he looked absolutely perfect. The doctor thinks that Nathan had passed away in the prior 24 36 hours, based on how good he looked. Just about the time I had felt extra emotional the day before. I truly believe I know when his heart stopped. After a brief explanation to Cameron, we brought our kids in and were able to enjoy time together as a family of six. We explained that this baby would not be coming home with us, but instead had gone home to be with our Heavenly Father. Cameron took comfort that he was with Jimmy's Dad and knew he was having fun and being taken care of. We were able to keep Nathan with us for almost 24 hours. At first, we were not sure if we wanted to hold him for that long, but looking back, are grateful for that time. There were some very special, sacred moments that we were able to share together as a couple with our baby that day. Leaving the hospital was one of the hardest things we have ever done. It felt like a piece of our hearts was left there that day. We're grateful for the gospel and the knowledge that we will see our sweet little Nathan again. It brings much more meaning to our anniversary(today) and are grateful for the chance to be sealed in the temple so that he is ours forever. We are thankful to so many of you, for your kindness and prayers. We have truly felt them and have been carried through this experience. How nice it is to have our three wonderful children at home to bring perspective to life. Cameron has reminded us that we are lucky to have had a brother die because now we have an angel to watch over us.

37 comments:

Apron Appeal said...

Your family has not left my thoughts. We love you...I wish there was a cool song I could sing on your answering machine....but for this...one is yet to be written.

Rebecca said...

Jenni, thanks for sharing your story. I haven't stopped thinking about you and praying for your family. I am so grateful for the Gospel that can bring comfort in times like these. You are such an example to me. Love you.

Jenna Johnson said...

I just sobbed as I read this post! It's been 3 years this week that our family went through this with Matt's sister! What an emotional but spiritual time! I'm sorry for your loss and pray for your family! Thank you for sharing your story! Tell little Cameron that he still has a place in my heart from primary!

Laura said...

I don't know what to say other than my heart is breaking for you and your family. He is a very special boy. We are praying for you.

Chandee said...

What beautiful pictures to treasure forever. Can't stop thinking about you, you are in our prayers.

DeeDee said...

Jenni and Jimmy- Such a beautful expression of love and tribute to sweet baby Nathan. I love you both and will keep you close in the coming days and years. You are both amazing examples and I'm so grateful. Jenni-- I think you are more special then I ever knew. I love you....

jaclyn anderson said...

Jenni I love you! I just hope you know what a great example of faith you and Jimmy are to me! Our family continues to think of you and pray for your family.

Corey & Lexy said...

You and Jimmy are so strong, I am so greatful for your incredible example of faith, love and strength. Please know our prayers are with you. Your family is a true example of the Lords good people on this earth. We love you.

Marci said...

Thank you so much for sharing your story. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love The Hansens

Mike and Amber said...

Jenni thank you so much for sharing your story. I really haven't been able to stop thinking about you and your family since I heard. What a difference the gospel makes! The Savior can truly bring hope and comfort into any situation. You will be our thoughts and prayers!

Jim and Crystal Smith said...

You are such an amazing family with an incredible view on this life and the next! Our hearts really go out to you, and we will not stop praying for you during this difficult time. What a blessing to have such sweet, innocent little children sharing their faith and wisdom (speaking of Cameron). Thanks for sharing your story, I know it took a lot of courage. We love you!

Angela said...

I really don't know where we would be without the gospel of Jesus Christ and his great plan for all of us. Thank you so much for sharing such tender moments with your little one with all of us. What a sweet and precious baby! You and Jimmy are such great and wonderful people and that's why the Lord sent this baby to you, what a gift! We love you both so much. We pray for you and know that the Spirit will continue to be a comforter to you.

Betsy Fox said...

Jimmy and Jenni,
My heart has ached for you this past week. I'm so happy you've been able to feel peace and feel of Heavenly Father's love. I'll call you soon because I would love to talk and share experiences with you. Bless you.

Unknown said...

On Sunday someone talked about people that are just naturally good people. Of coarse, I thought about you and Jimmy. I am so grateful that God placed you in my life. I probably don't go through a week without thinking about the sort of person you are and the example you have been in my life. It is sort of like "what would Jesus do?", but what would Jenni do? I know you were placed in my life for a reason, and for that I am truly grateful. Ever since I met you, I have strived to be like you and always will. At times like this, I think, maybe I don't want to be as faithful as the Clarks, because I don't want a trial like this! :) Jenni, I hope you know how truly amazing you and Jimmy are. You have touched lives of many. You are truly worthy of such an incredible baby. I am so sorry for your loss. I have a testimony of the gospel. I know that Nathan lives and that you will be able to raise him.
I love you
Emily

Heidi said...

Nathan is such a handsome baby. How fitting that he looked so perfect, because perfect is exactly what he is. We love and are praying for your wonderful family. I wish we lived closer so I could give you all a big hug.

The Fergy Bunch said...

I cried and cried for you last week when Donna told me. I actually have little something I wanted to drop off for the family and Kalli described to me where you lived, but didn't know the address. If you could let me know your address I would love to run it by.
My email:
littlefergywife@gmail.com

everyday katie said...

Thank you for sharing your story. It was very touching. Your strength and faith is very evident in this. Spencer had heard something about this earlier in the week, though we knew no details. You have been in our thoughts and prayers.

Tiffany said...

Jenni and Jimmy, I am so sorry to read about this loss. The video is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for sharing it. I hope you will feel peace and comfort during this time and will know how much you are loved by your family and friends. Hugs and love from me and Ryan.

Becca Curzon said...

All I can say is wow! This is such a shocking story, wow. Your ability to feel the spirit and understand the Lords will is another wow. You are truly amazing. No wonder you were chosen to bring this perfect child into the world and give him a body. He will be able to be raised in the next life by parents who truly understand God's will. A perfect baby for a perfect family. I know that even though you're strong, this is a hard time and you will miss Nathan until you see him again. You will be in my prayers.

kj said...

Oh Jenni and Jimmy, it breaks all of our hearts thinking of you or anyone losing a child on his only birthday on earth. Thankfully we know that The Gospel plan is true and that is how you will find comfort. Thanks for sharing your intimate feelings in written word and to your friend that prepared such a loving tribute. As a family you've been humbled do a degree few know. As a family you are growing more together. Our prayers are with you.

Kelli said...

Jimmy and Jenni thank you so much for sharing your story of your sweet Nathan with us. I am grateful for your example and your quiet strength. I am so sorry for the loss that you feel and will continue to feel and I hope and pray that you will feel a full measure of comfort that the spirit can bring. I love you both so much and my heart is just aching for you and your sweet family.

erica said...

jenni, i was in tears when i heard the news. i am so sorry. i can't even begin to imagine what you guys are going through. thank heavens for the gospel and the knowledge that you will be with your little nathan again.
know that i haven't stopped thinking of you since the day i found out...you have been in my thoughts and prayers constantly.
i loved the video...tears are still running down my face from it. sure love you guys. hang in there.

Montoya's said...

I am truly saddened by this. I can't even put into words how much I care for your family. You have been such an inspiration and a great friend to my entire family. I can't even imagine having to go threw this. You have such a great outlook on life. I am here for you if you need anything. Please please please email me your new address so I can stop by.

Jamie Bowers said...

Jenni and Jimmy, This is Jamie and Travis Bowers, we are good friends with Jimmy's sister Tammie. Wow, I think you two are amazing. You have been in our thoughts and prayers and my heart just aches for you. This video was so precious as I bawled through the whole thing. Your family is beatiful. You are so strong and my testimony has grown through your touching story. Thanks for sharing your little piece of heaven with us.

The Frame Family said...

Jimmy and Jenni,
Thank you so much for sharing your story and also these beautiful pictures of your sweet Nathan! He is perfect in every way and will forever be your sweet little angel. I am so thankful for the kind of example you have been. Our family will continue to pray for you, that you can continue to find peace and comfort in the days, weeks and years to come. I love you Jenni...thank you for all you do for me...please let me know if there is anything that I can do for you!

Julianne said...

Oh Jenni, that was just precious. Nathan is truly an angel and perfect in every way. I know that he and Coleby were friends I will have to tell you what he did while I was watching/sobbing through, your video. It was so tender. You are an incredible mom and I know that one day you will hold Nathan again. THe plan of our Heavenly Father is perfect and aren't we grateful for that. Thank you for sharing your thoughts as you have helped to strengthen my testimony of that plan.
What an amazing family you have! You will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. I love you!

Here is my email. I need yours too!
ballerinajules@netscape.net

Anonymous said...

You offer such an incredible perspective and I am so amazed at your testimony and love. I agree, you two are "qualified" spiritually, to be parents to this angel baby, who will continue to look out for you. Your story has inspired me in many ways. Thanks for the true perspective to keep going and inspiring me to do better and treasure each moment. I love you, Cheltz

Chelsea said...

You offer such an incredible perspective and I am so amazed at your testimony and love. I agree, you two are "qualified" spiritually, to be parents to this angel baby, who will continue to look out for you. Your story has inspired me in many ways. Thanks for the true perspective to keep going and inspiring me to do better and treasure each moment. I love you, Cheltz

Angie said...

What a bitter sweet story. Your faith is beautiful. You've been in my prayers this week, and I sincerly hope that you continue to feel the Lord's love for all of you. I love you all!

Anonymous said...

Jenni - I'm so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your story and the beautiful video of your family sharing precious moments with your Nathan. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Love, Angela Thomas

Eric and Kati Marsing said...

Thanks for sharing your story and your strong faith with us. Our thoughts continue to be with you.

Ally said...

Wow! What a beautiful video, it captures such a sweet spirit of your family and your little angel. It was so nice to see you this morning, my thoughts and prayers will be with you.

Robyn said...

So sorry to hear of your loss, but what a wonderful tribute to little Nathan. A similar thing happened to a coworker this past week as well, and though we don't always know why these things happen, you can take comfort in knowing you will see him again. Miss you guys, tell hi to Cameron for me.

Tiffney said...

We love your family. Your perspective is such a testimony of the hope that comes from the atonement of our Savior. Thank you for sharing your little Nathan with us. You are in our thoughts and prayers. The Andersons

Jess said...

We love your family so much and can't imagine what you are going through but you are in our thoughts and prayers. These pictures are precious! Thank you for sharing and for your example of faith and love.

Traci said...

I found your blog through the Hansen's and I just wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. You are such an example and have such a strong testimony of the gospel. Nathan is beautiful...just like the rest of your kids. Stay strong!!

The Fraidenburg Family

Katie said...

I see that's it's been a little over a month for you and wondering how you are holding up? I emailed you, but not sure if you received it. Email me if you did not get my email. ladykates@gmail.com
Thinking of you. I know this is probably a hard time for you.
Lots of love sent your way from me and peder.