Team Thomas participated in the Baby Steps Memorial 5K for the second year in a row on August 13. Several of our family members and friends joined us to remember our precious son along with many other babies that have gone on to be with Jesus by participating in the 5K and One Mile Fun Run. It was such a special and unforgettable day. It blessed our hearts to receive so much love and support from our friends and family who got up early on their Saturday morning to be a part of Team Thomas. We would like to thank everyone who participated; we love and appreciate you so much!
This year looked much different to me than last year, probably because last year it had only been a few months since Thomas passed away, it was our first year to participate in the Run, and I was pregnant with Thomas’ baby sister. This year I had a better feel of what the day would look like and could better prepare myself. As I reflect back on Saturday, I think about the sadness, yet joy I felt. While my heart hurt because we were running in memory of Thomas and other sweet babies, I also experienced joy to see so many people show love and support for their friends and families. It can be an extremely emotional day and to know you have people there walking alongside you means a lot. The morning began with the 5K and One Mile Fun Run, followed by pictures with our family and friends. There were a lot of fun activities the kids were able to enjoy. To close out the day, there were giveaways, of which we had several winners, and a balloon release. I did fine emotionally all morning until right before the balloon release… we were standing there and my little sister started asking me about the Pandora bracelet I was wearing. Buddy gave it to me as a gift after Alexandria was born. It includes five charms: a little boy to represent Thomas, his birthstone, a little girl to represent Alexandria, her birthstone and a heart in the middle that says, “Mom.” I was explaining to my sister that I wear the bracelet the way I do so that Thomas is closest to my heart. I tear up as I write this…
We would like to thank all those again who came out to be a part of Team Thomas; we are truly grateful for your love and support. Be sure to check out the race results. Also, be sure to check out pictures from the day. Proceeds from the Baby Steps Memorial Run benefited The Amelia Center, a comprehensive grief counseling center that provides free individual and family counseling to children and teens who have experienced a death, or to adults who have experienced the death of a child. This organization has been very helpful for Buddy and me during our time of grief over Thomas. If you didn’t get to participate in the Run but would still like to help, you can make a donation here. Please be sure to make your donation in memory of Thomas Alexander Lambert V so that we will be notified of your gift. Thank you again and go Team Thomas!