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Posted on Mon, Apr. 16, 2007 06:54 AM
ZEKE'S GIFT | ‘Hi. This is mommy’
But each sees beyond the deformed face, seeing only a cherished little boy.
“God honored my prayer,” says Jessica. She smiles weakly, kisses his tiny head once more.
There will be time to plan the final details of the funeral, and even celebrate their five-year wedding anniversary.
But for now, she will cuddle and kiss and whisper to her baby how very much he is loved.
Second of two parts
After learning that their child will die within minutes after his birth because of a devastating genetic disorder, Jessica and Dave Weatherford decide to celebrate every moment of his life. They draw strength from family and friends and supporters such as Patti Lewis of Alexandra’s House. As Zeke’s day approaches, fear grows, but so does love.
After learning that their child will die within minutes after his birth because of a devastating genetic disorder, Jessica and Dave Weatherford decide to celebrate every moment of his life. They draw strength from family and friends and supporters such as Patti Lewis of Alexandra’s House. As Zeke’s day approaches, fear grows, but so does love.
About the photos
As a general policy, The Star does not publish photographs of people after death. Only after much deliberation did editors decide to publish photos showing baby Zeke after his death. They show the importance of the grieving ritual, which included celebrating Zeke and capturing memories that will last a lifetime. The Star took great care in selecting the images.
As a general policy, The Star does not publish photographs of people after death. Only after much deliberation did editors decide to publish photos showing baby Zeke after his death. They show the importance of the grieving ritual, which included celebrating Zeke and capturing memories that will last a lifetime. The Star took great care in selecting the images.
The series
Sunday: Even on the darkest of days, the Weatherfords still find joy.
Today: Zeke brings many gifts to his parents — the caring of strangers, the love of family and friends, the bolstering of their faith — but they learn the greatest gift is time with their son.
To reach Lee Hill Kavanaugh, call (816) 234-4420 or send e-mail to lkavanaugh@kcstar.com. To reach Allison Long, send e-mail to along@kcstar.com.
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