To the people of Decatur for sharing my grief and holding my hand

Here’s the letter I’m submitting to the newspaper for all of the amazing local people who helped us. Would love any feedback.

To the editor:

It might take a village to raise a child, but it definitely takes a strong community to help a family through the loss of a child.

My husband and I lost our first born child, Cora, after only five short days of life on Dec. 6, 2009. She died unexpectedly after a healthy pregnancy and delivery of a previously undetected heart condition. Needless to say, losing a child is probably the most difficult tragedy a parent will ever experience.

It seemed like the entire community stepped up to offer support. At a time when cooking and daily functioning were impossible, food was left at our door step. Family members helped with funeral arrangements and took care of hotel rooms for out of town guests. Naming everyone that sent cards, offered sympathy, and gave us a shoulder to cry on would be impossible, but a few people deserve special recognition.

Firstly, to Officer Kevin Gerber of the Decatur Police Department, we will remember you and your heartfelt compassion for the rest of our lives. Escorting us to the hospital might have been in your job description, but comforting us, getting us water and making sure we were comfortable were not. You grieved alongside us that night. Decatur is lucky to have you.

Next, to the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and any others who tried their best to save Cora, you also grieved with us that night. Thank you to all of you for trying everything medically possible to save her.

Lastly, huge thanks to Zwick and Jahn Funeral home. They donated all of their services to provide Cora with a beautiful visitation and remembrance. A special thanks to Mark Jahn who always treats my family like his family.

I moved back to Decatur a year ago, and my husband moved here for the first time. We viewed the move as temporary and counted the days until we left before this happened. Now, we feel privileged to live in such a kind, supportive and helpful community.

Kristine and Ben McCormick