A Rainbow Baby

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We’re having a Rainbow baby.

Last September our family went to the Double H Ranch for a weekend retreat for families who have lost their son or daughter, sister or brother. It was this weekend almost a year ago that I first heard the term “rainbow baby”. We were talking with another family one night who had lost their 2 year old son 11 years ago and they introduced me to their rainbow baby- their 8 year old daughter. I remember asking what a rainbow baby is and they explained that it was a baby born after the loss of a child and that it helps families find hope and faith in the future after suffering such a devastating loss. They explained that parenting after a loss is one of the most exciting, worthwhile, happy, meaningful, things they could do with their lives. When I asked why they call a baby after a loss a rainbow baby they explained to me that a beautiful and bright rainbow follows a storm and gives hope of things getting better. The rainbow is more appreciated having just experienced the storm in comparison. This is so true for our family. For those of you who haven’t heard the news yet… we are expecting a baby in 3 weeks! We are beyond excited for the arrival of our 3rd child, our rainbow baby. But although there is much happiness in this news and in the term “rainbow baby” there are also many fears, anxieties and of course questions or concerns from others about our choice of having another baby.

One of the fears and statements we often hear is “ I hope this baby doesn’t get cancer”. Guess what? I do too. But I also hope you don’t get cancer and your child doesn’t get cancer and that no child ever gets cancer again. We have had genetic testing as well as many other tests and the findings were that Gracie’s cancer was “bad luck” (great for us deciding to expand our family, but a tough finding for the reason my child died). Our chances of our children having cancer are the same as yours. But I will say that still scares the crap out of me. If anyone knows that “rare” can happen, it’s us. Even if it’s a 1% chance- it’s still there and it’s scary. I know where my mind is going to wander when this baby gets sick or has a full, hard belly after eating… So when you say “I hope this baby doesn’t get cancer” to me my anxiety increases and it helps solve nothing. I will always pray that my children don’t get cancer and remain healthy in every sense, and I will pray the same for your children.

Another phrase I often hear is “I’m so glad you’re having another child, now you’ll have a family of 4 again!” No, we will now have a family of 5. We are not replacing Gracie. Gracie was here and will always be a part of my family. We will still talk about her and let the baby know they have a sister in heaven. I will now have 3 kids.

So here we are 3 weeks before our lives will change once again. I’m feeling good, tired, emotional, hot, moody and excited- just like any other pregnant woman! We are ready for our little miracle, our rainbow baby because after every storm there is a rainbow of hope……that rainbow of hope will be here August 1st.

If you get a chance please send some thoughts and prayers to our family this day for a healthy delivery and healthy baby! We will share the news and post pics when Gracie’s brother or sister arrives!

31 comments on “A Rainbow Baby

  1. Our thoughts, love and prayers for your new little one and your family! Gracie will always be in my heart and prayers! She is the most beautiful I have ever seen, and that will always be true!!! Love, Linda and Cha

  2. Wishing you and your family nothing but the best for healthy delivery and healthy baby! So happy for you on your decision to have your rainbow baby. So ironic that Scott and Geoff played ball together and now your boys are playing together and are best friends no matter where they live! Good seeing you yesterday. You look amazing!

  3. I have kept you and your family in my prayers from the beginning and will continue to pray for you and your “rainbow baby.” You must be so excited. Love – Kathy

  4. So excited for you Lisa wishing you the bet on August 1. You and Jeff are such a strong and caring couple with all you do through your foundation. Can’t wait to meet your new addition. Hugs and kisses your way

  5. again nailing this discussion on the head!!!!! we got all those comments when we were pregnant for our rainbow, we had genetic testing done also and well nothing genetic caused her heart defect bad luck did..Our rainbow is already 2 now! .. i remember all those fears, but i have to tell you raising a rainbow is definately great and of course on this journey emotional at times!!!!!! good luck with your new addition and having a family of five!!!!! hugs!!!

  6. ALWAYS in my thoughts and prayers. I think of your little Gracie every year as we share the same birthday. Sending hugs and kisses and prayers for a healthy delivery and healthy delivery. Awesome work you do through your foundation. Will be waiting to hear about baby #3 !

    Marylee Dedicke

  7. I could not be happier for all of you and can’t wait to see all about the new little one and photos along with big brother! God Bless You All!

  8. My husband and I are expecting our Rainbow Baby in 2 weeks. While the circumstances surrounding our son’s death are much different than Gracie’s, our fears and anxieties are much the same as yours. We wish you nothing but the best, for a safe delivery, and a healthy baby! Congratulations on your Rainbow❤️

  9. Reading this brought tears to my eyes! I am so happy that your new little one will be arriving soon! I will keep you all in my prayers that all goes well and the baby is healthy! I’m sure little angel Gracie will be smiling down and watching over her new little sibling! Best wishes, thoughts, and prayers to all of you!

  10. Such happy news!! I was Geoff’s kindergarten teacher (as well as his brother’s and sister’s). I was so sad about what your family has been through and for your loss. Prayers for a happy and healthy baby and a happy and healthy family! God’s blessings on you.

  11. So happy for you guys. Gracie will always be your guardian angel! Praying for a fast and easy delivery and can’t wait to see pictures. God Bless!❤️

  12. I am beyond thrilled for all of you. The hands and hearts that you have helped throughout the years are amazing, just like your Gracie. You deserve all of the joys and blessings that God has to offer. Congrats. to your entire family. I am sure Gracie is watching over all of you with Love, honor and Respect .Gracie knows how Blessed she is to be your child. You are all always in my thoughts and prayers.

  13. Good though and prayers for you and all your family. You do such wonderful ok with your foundation, God will grace you all.

  14. So proud of you, Lisa and Geoff and Luke. Here is another thought, a rainbow is a sign of God’s grace after a tragedy, as in the story of Noah. I am counting on God’s blessings in your amazing family.

  15. So excited for your family Lisa and Geoff. You are wonderful parents and this child will be blessed to have you both. Looking forward to meeting the baby.

  16. I have kept you in my prayers since the day I heard your devastating news of Gracie & will continue to pray for your family. May God bless you with a beautiful, happy & healthy rainbow baby!!

  17. So happy for you all!! Can’t wait to hear the news! I’m sure Gracie will be shining her light especially bright that day!!

  18. Lisa, I’m so excited for your family!! All the emotions you are having are very real and I pray your new little bundle of joy is healthy and happy in every way!! May this little piece of scripture help you through… I know it helps calm my soul…

    So do not fear.
    For I am with you;
    Do not be dismayed.
    For I am your God;
    I will strengthen you
    And help you.
    I will uphold you with my
    Righteous right hand.
    Isaiah 41.10

    P.s. Can’t wait to see pics☺️

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