I spent the past week on vacation with my family.  I was effectively out of the Internet/Social Media/Twitter world.

The few times I checked my blackberry and took a glance at Twitter, I saw a lot of  this: #Maddie.  I saw a lot of tweets about ‘Maddie’ and prayers for ‘Maddie’.  I suspected the news was bad.

But I didn’t know the whole story.

I am now home.  I have now read the whole story.  I now know the light went out of Heather and Mike’s world on April 7th.

I don’t know the family.  And yet, I feel like I do – just a little.  I know enough to sit at my computer at midnight on a Sunday night and cry.  I know enough to hurt, deep down in my soul for them.  I know enough to be amazed by the true and unbelievable outpouring of support I have seen in the short time I have been home and online.  I know enough to want to help in some small, seemingly insignificant way.

I mean really – how can a stranger living in the middle of the country possibly help?  I can donate to help the family - hoping to ease the financial burden of two parents who aren’t working.  I imagine the money strain must be heavy but I think the emotional burden of burying your sweet baby girl must be devastating.  You can also donate to the March of Dimes - the family has requested this in lieu of flowers.

More than anything, I wish I could give them both a hug – not because it would make it any better, but because, maybe, just maybe, it might help to be held – at least for a moment.

So – I am sending virtual hugs and I will be praying.  Tonight.  Tomorrow.  Tuesday. And every day after that.  I will pray for Sweet Maddie.  And I will pray for Heather and Mike – that the amazing support they are receiving will help – even a little.

For more information on all things Maddie, visit a wonderful family friend.  She has also set up a Mr. Linky so you can let the Spohr family know if you posted about Maddie.

If you want a copy of a button for Maddie – or just want to read a beautiful post by someone who actually did know Heather, Mike and Maddie: visit one of my favorite writers.

There is certainly another angel in heaven tonight.

Heather and Mike, I am so terribly sorry.