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Share Ambassador

Karen Zerr

This is my second year for being involved in the Ambassador Program. I have volunteered for Share for the last seven years and I really believe in the mission. I only wish it would have been in place when we lost our baby.

My story is at the opposite end of the spectrum of people that Share usually serves---the recently bereaved. We lost our Jeffrey in 1969. He was born prematurely at about 28 weeks and lived only 12 hours. I never saw him and never held him. There was nothing in place to help grieving parents. I was patted on the shoulder and told to get over it. That simply does not happen. I finally got to where I accepted his death but I will never get over it. I still have a hole in my heart and always will.

Fast forward to 1998-1999. My husband retired from the Navy and we moved back to St. Charles. One day, out of the clear blue, I wondered what Jeffrey was wearing when he was buried. That thought quickly progressed to was he wearing anything. I called the funeral home and asked what premature babies are buried in. I was assured that he was at least wrapped in a blanket. The lady also referred me to Share. I was not sure what this organization was all about but I did call and learned about the wonderful work they do.

Long story short, all these years later, I have found healing by sewing infant burial clothing for Share. My mission is to make burial sets for babies from teen tiny miscarriages up to normal birth weight. I do it with love in my heart to honor and remember our Jeffrey. It is a joyful thing for me to do.

Because Share is a not-for-profit organization, I am also involved in fund raising. In order to raise the money for the Ambassador Program, I sent a letter to all my friends and relatives telling them about Share and asking for a donation. They have come through in a big way. I feel I have accomplished two things. I have raised some money for Share and I have spread Share’s mission all over the United States.