It was early this year that I got accredited by NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP (NILMDTS) which is a global non-profit advocacy that helps bereaved parents with the loss of a child by offering remembrance photography for free.
When I got accepted, I didn't know how to spread the word here in Manila. Because the concept is fairly new and there are so many stigmas/superstitions and judgements that could be made of it and me. But anyways, I have no other way of saying It so here it goes...
The concept behind NILMDTS is quite simple actually - these photos help families heal and remember their little angel. Remembrance photography is a very important step in the healing process. Photographs are one of the most precious and tangible mementos that a parent can have, showing the love and bond that was given and shared with their baby. These portraits will last for generations, and will honor and remember a tiny life that is forever loved and cherished.
Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep is committed to assisting parents and families experiencing early infant loss. NILMDTS connects families with volunteer photographers who donate the gift of infant remembrance photography.
I chose to be a part of it because I wanted to give back, I've had some clients who have lost a child and I know how precious photos can be and I wanted to be able to share what I could in my capacity with them, and so NILMDTS was perfect.
Today, I got my first contact with a family that lost their baby boy this morning at 35 weeks. Words cannot express how emotional the experience was to photograph him - and to see the parents grieve, to hold his little hands and feet... Grabe, it was so difficult for me to hold it all together - my heart ached for the parents event more. At the same time, I felt so honored to be able to give them something that they will surely treasure forever. As I was on my way home, I had to call a friend to explain what had just happened because I felt like breaking down, ang bigat pala nito grabe. No regrets though... And then just now - the sister who found me (who lives in Australia) sent me this text message:
"Oh, there are no words appropriate enough to say that would adequately explain my gratitude. I have been following NILMDTS since my eldest boy was about six weeks old, he is nearly 8. What an amazing organisation to be a part of. In my distress last night I didn't even think to see if NILMDTS had a photographer in Manila, instead I emailed the president of Heartfelt in the middle of the night (Heartfelt is an Australian organisation that does the same as NILMDTS) and Gavin found you.
I am an oncology social worker so I am around death a lot but it is so different when it is your own family and so hard when you are in another country and so far away. I would give anything to have been there to meet Junior and hold him. I will treasure your photos as much as Gus and Mez will.
Thank you for your gift and your generosity. To be a part of someone elses darkest hour and deepest sorrow is such a privilege. You did good Sofia, you will forever have my appreciation and gratitude. Sarah x"
Lord, thanks for sending me this Family today via long distance nonetheless and for giving me the strength to go through with it. Please Bless little Junior and his wonderful mom and dad, and supportive family.
To know more about NILMDTS and what it stands for please
visit their website at https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/families/services-for-families/
I hope that other photographers will also be inspired and apply as volunteers for this worthy cause.
Please spread the word to doctors and families who you may know that would benefit from this priceless gift.
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