About three weeks ago, I got the privilege of accompanying Ashley to the home of baby Hidaya. Hidaya has been at Cradle of Love Baby Home almost since birth. She lost her mother but has a surviving baba, dadas, kaka, and two bibis (that's father, sisters, brother, and two grandmothers!). Hidaya's older siblings and one grandmother had only seen her once, whereas her father and maternal grandmother had only seen her a few times. It was upon the visit of Hidaya's father to Cradle just days before Ashley was to return to the United States, that she was invited to visit his home and meet the family. The following is a simple pictorial of her visit (I was invited to accompany and capture the moments). Visiting this home further helps me to feel confident in our work here at Cradle. Without a living mother and without us, these families would have no where to turn and would lose their babies. I'm so happy that we can be here to help them in their times of crisis. Its truly our privilege and honor.
Room one of two: Where the family gathers to eat and socialize
The friend who referred the family to Cradle of Love was also there to visit with Hidaya
Hidaya's beautiful three year old sister
Me in the alleyway leading to Hidaya's home
Hidaya cried a lot during the visit but her Baba didn't mind! Daddy's love their little girls!
The whole family, with a few friends that you might recognize
Go ahead and sleep Hidaya. Its already been a long day.
Like!
ReplyDeleteThat is so great!!! Does the family live in Usa? I love that our kaka drove yall to the home (and even made it in the pic)! :)
ReplyDeleteAwww, I wish I could live in that day forever. Some combination of that day and my last one ... when Hidaya and I got to cuddle for an hour before starting the morning. Getting to meet her family was probably one of the best things for me. As much as I miss her (and I can't even describe how much that is) I feel blessed to know that she has a loving family to return to ... and a family that welcomes me to keep in touch. Without being able to take her home with me, it really couldn't get better than that. PS Forgive my novel of a response.
ReplyDeleteI love the top picture of Ashley and Hidaya! Miss seeing them together:( I'm also curious, in the bottom picture, why is Hidaya holding a Ziplock bag like it's her blanket?
ReplyDeletewhat an awesome experience! and love that almas joined.
ReplyDelete