Ryan Cruz

While we were at the farm, this adorable face kept popping up on my Instagram feed. I fell in love with him instantly. "Who is this gorgeous child?!" I thought. After clicking a few photos I learned that he is 3.5yo Ryan Cruz Saldana and he's gone.
He was tragically struck by a car while playing in the front yard of a family members home. This story ripped my heart out of my chest.
How could this sweet, loving family (who I don't know personally) lose their precious son? Why would he be taken from them? Oh and to know that the heartache I feel is the tiniest fraction of the suffering his parents are feeling is unbearable. Here I am, a total stranger, motherhood being my only connection with Ryan's mom, and I have literally spent days and nights sobbing over his loss. Tears for him. Tears for his mom and dad and everyone who knew and loved him.
As a heart mom, I was forced to think about my son dying. I hate to say that, but it's true. When we received his diagnosis, I was 21 weeks pregnant. So for the rest of my pregnancy, through his first 2 surgeries and even still today, I have to think about losing my beautiful Santi. I'm grateful for every moment I have with him.
Just a little reminder to cherish your loved ones. Hug them tight. Tell them you love them. Tomorrow is not a guarantee for any of us.
Follow Ryan's mom at www.babyboybakery.com