SUPPORT SONIA'S KIDS AFTER HER DEATH DURING CHILDBIRTH

Mother dies during childbirth leaving a social worker to care for 5 of her children…

As a social worker I’ve seen families endure some of the worse trials. I never imagined it would be me. Having a baby is supposed to be a joyous occasion. The mother looks forward to her new baby and the siblings look forward to another baby joining their family. However, our family did not have those things. My niece Sonia never had the opportunity to come home. She went into the hospital to have her 7th baby and sadly she never came back. Her son Chance received CPR and survived but she died due to excessive bleeding. She left behind 7 children, 5 of whom came to live with me (Newborn to 5 years old), their great aunt. When my sister asked me to take her daughter’s children, I originally didn’t want to. To be honest I was really sad about Sonia passing away and her son making it. My feelings about it where all over the place. My only biological child said, Mom Sonia would want you to keep her baby. Once I met her baby and moved her kids into my 2-bedroom home, my heart changed. I just knew I had to do it. When I agreed to take custody of them, it was primarily due to the love I had for my sister (their grandma) and the love I had for my niece (their mom). I never considered the financial cost that would be included. I’m trying to keep it together but almost 6 years later I find myself with a depleted savings account and in place where I need to see if others want to help. I I’ve spent my entire life giving. I hate asking for help because as the biological mother of one I set myself of for success and just never imagined I’d end of with 5 more children at 55 years of age.

My primary focus for the children at the present time is to build a home that can accommodate all 5 of them on my ancestor’s property that I was in the midst of buying when I received custody of them. My 2-bedroom home can no longer accommodate us as a family. The four oldest children share a bedroom and the youngest shares an office with me. In addition, despite working full time, I am struggling giving them the same opportunities that I gave my biological son that includes sports, dance, and other activities that I know would make life more interesting and fulfilling.

So, I find myself in a position where the person who has always helped is now asking for help. Yes, it is embarrassing but I feel that this is what’s best to be able to provide a better life for Sonia’s children.

I’m sure we are not the only family in need. You may know someone else who needs assistance more than we do. If you do I encourage you to help them. However, if you have the ability to give to us, I would forever be grateful. Praying for us all.