Dear Madeline,
I write you this letter on what would have been your 2nd Birthday.
Oh, how we miss you sweet angel.
The world just has not been the same since you left.
Sadness is heavy in our hearts.
Those who knew you, felt as though the world changed at that very moment in time when you were taken away.
You lived such a short life.
You deserved so many more years.
I know your Mommy & Daddy would give anything, ANYTHING- to hold you for just one more moment.
I want to tell you all about your parents, Madeline.
As hard as losing you has been on them, they have taken your passing and done something so beautiful.
They honor you ever day- in every way.
The day of your service, the church was packed. SO many people love you little girl. We all wanted to be there to honor you. Even those who couldnt be there physically, had a moment of silence and released purple balloons.
Everyone wore purple, your favorite color.
We were all given balloons to release once we exited the church.
At the VERY MOMENT that we were set to release the balloons, a strong wind blew.
It sent chills down my spine.
It was no coincidence.
At the end of April, your mother and father participated in the March of Dimes Walk …
No one would have blamed them for staying home, and hiding from the world.. but no, they chose to go… to honor your memory.
Your parents weren’t just walking… they were standing in the front lines.
They were even asked to give a speech.
“When you leave here today, I hope that you will close your eyes and picture a beautiful toddler with a gigantic grin. Remember that face, and remember the work the March of Dimes does. Carry that smile with you every day, and please continue to support the March of Dimes.” – Heather Spohr
Did you know that there were March for Maddie group walks ALL OVER the United States? So many people wore a purple shirt that day and walked. They walked for you. They walked for a cure. They walked so that no parent should EVER have to go through the anguish of losing child.

In June, your Mommy found out that you were going to be a big sister. She was so worried to tell people because she didn’t want them to think that they were in ANY WAY replacing you.
That would be a silly thought, since we all know that is impossible.
Your parents always dreamed of having two little girls… your baby sister will be born in February (G-D Willing). We know in our heart of hearts (even those non-believers) that you are watching over her, and making sure that she will arrive safely in their loving and longing arms. Your probably already preparing her with stories of fun times you all shared.
Your Mommy & Daddy decided to turn the tragedy of losing you into something bigger…
Friends Of Maddie was a non-profit group that was formed in your honor. Your mommy & daddy decided to start a foundation in your name to help parents of NICU babies. FOM sends NICU kits for parents, in order to provide some comfort in an uncertain time.
In October, your Mommy & Daddy were invited to Washington to speak to the March of Dimes and receive an award for all the hard work that they did for March For Babies.
I know just how proud you are of your Mommy & Daddy for using your memory to help others in need.
Your life was in no way in vain little girl.
Your memory lives in each and every one of us every single day.
We will hold you in our hearts forever.
They say that when you notice 11:11 on your clock, it’s a sign.
They say that it is angels drawing your attention to the time, to let you know that they are there.
It was NO coincidence that you were born on that day.
I know in my heart of hearts that you were indeed an angel on this earth, sent here for a reason.
Please continue to send strength and love to your Mommy & Daddy.
Happy Birthday little girl..we will forever ache for you.








edenland said
GG, I have been thinking of the Spohrs …. and you …. all day.
Go softly, sweetheart. XOXOXOX
jen said
That was beautiful. Maddie touched so many people who have never even met her. I cant imagine how she affected people who did know her. My heart breaks for those people – especially today.
Sending you, Heather, Mike and ALL who knew her hugs today. You are all in my thoughts.
AmazingGreis said
Thinking of Heather, Mike, Baby Binky and especially Maddie today and always.
Happy Birthday angel baby!!!
rachel said
I’ve never met Mike or Heather, or Maddie. But I, like many others, still grieve and care deeply about them.
Last night, in the middle of a four hour drive, I stopped in the middle of NOWHERE to grab dinner. A mommy was there with a few kids. I smiled, because they were cute. I noticed then that the lady was holding an Abby Cadabby doll. I was so so excited!!! I knew that it was a sign, one of many I’m sure, that Maddie was sending to people to make sure her parents and Rigby and Binky know that she is good, and missing them.
Beautiful post, GG, for a beautiful person…Maddie.
heather... said
love you. Soul sisters.
mel said
Beautiful post for a beautiful girl.
Maria said
This is beautiful. You’re a beautiful friend.
Lisa said
This is a beautiful post to honor a beautiful little girl. My thoughts are with the Spohrs all day today (and always).
Anissa said
Maybe another day I’ll come back and finish watching the video. But today, i just couldn’t. I love you, Maya, for your incredible heart and love and I wish this wasn’t the reason I met you, but I’m DAMN glad I did. XOXOXOXO
ali said
oh, lady. This is just beautiful.