friend Jaci
On January 21st, at about the same time we learned that Jordan needed a heart transplant, Breanna's parents took her to the emergency room with what turned out to be fatal injuries. Those injuries would later be diagnosed as consistent with "shaken baby syndrome." Breanna's father, who was watching her while Nicole was at work, now faces criminal charges for her death.
Breanna was placed on life support shortly after arriving at the hospital. After a few days, the doctors told Nicole that the situation was grim and that, if Breanna did survive, she would likely be severely brain damaged. At that point they asked her if she would consider donating Breanna's organs if she did not make it. Nicole did not hesitate - she said yes, knowing that she would want someone to do the same for her, if it were possible to save Breanna. On January 25th, Breanna was diagnosed as brain dead when it was determined that she could not breathe on her own.
True to her word, Nicole followed through on her intent to donate Breanna's organs. Breanna's heart was transplanted into Jordan on January 26th. Nicole also donated Breanna's kidneys.
Sadaf and I constantly reflect on the enormity of Nicole's gesture. In the midst of her own devastating tragedy, she was able to be so generous, so strong, and so selfless. There is no greater gift that one person can give to another than the gift of life. Sadaf and I will never forget that she and Breanna are responsible for every moment of joy we have with Jordan. We pray Breanna rests in peace and that Nicole is comforted by the fact that her daughter's short life was not in vain.
For those of you who would like to honor Breanna's memory, a memorial fund has been established in her name to help offset some expenses that remain from her hospitalization and funeral arrangements. Checks may be made and sent to the following:
BREANNA LOOMIS MEMORIAL FUND
c/o ALPINE BANK OF ILLINOIS
P.O. Box 6086
ROCKFORD, IL. 61125
Or call (815) 398-6500
