The Connor Kirby Infant Memorial Foundation

Connor's Story

connor8 On March 12, 2003 our routine ultrasound revealed a problem. Two days later, after seeing the Perinatologist, we were devastated when the doctor told us that once our baby was born, he would not survive. We tried everything we could to save his precious life, but it was too late.

He wasn't due until July 25th. My first thought was that it was going to be agony to have to carry a baby for four more months knowing he would die after he was born. It turns out those were some of the most precious moments I had with him. I appreciated every tiny little movement I felt, knowing that they were numbered.

We were fortunate enough to have a doctor who let us choose to have a cesarean section so that we could see him alive, even for a few moments. Then on Memorial Day I woke up at 2:20 am in labor. He was nine weeks early. Connor Matthew Hemperly-Kirby was born at 5:45am and lived for ninety minutes.

He was so beautiful. It felt so good that while he was alive I was able to tell him how much I love him, how much I would miss him, and how sorry I was that this happened to him. He even responded with a little movement and noise. He got to feel the love and kisses from all of his family, including his big brother. He passed away quietly surrounded by all those who loved him.

Dear Connor

by: Adele Kirby

When I heard the news
  that you would not survive...
    I looked at your father and we
      both started to cry.

As weeks passed by, we did
  everything we could
    to bring you into this world,
      alive as you should..

We prepared ourselves for the
  hardest thing a parent can face.
    Everyone said I was strong,
      but I knew it was God’s grace.

All arrangements had been planned,
  but then you gave me a surprise.
    On this Memorial Day,
      you were born at 5:45.

They had you out before I knew it
  I kept my eyes on you every minute.
    Your short life lasted an hour and a half.
      During that time we even gave you a bath.

My heart, so filled with love,
  so broken by sorrow,
    I just don’t know how I’ll get
      through till tomorrow.

Every time I close my eyes.
  I see your angelic face.
    Yet, I find some comfort knowing
      you’re in a better place.

Even though you are gone,
  you will never be forgotten.
    I promise, when I see you again,
      I will spoil you rotten.