So very sad

Kind of different post today, just because I feel the need to talk to somebody and at this hour, there just isn't anyone available. A good friend of mine has just reached her due date. I was the lucky one to tell her the pregnancy test was positive, I enjoyed chatting with her as her tummy grew, and I had fun at her baby shower. For the past several days I have bugged her about hurrying it up so I would be on shift when she delivered. When I saw her name pop up in the lab I immediately ran down to see her but the tears in her family's eyes gave away the feeling in the room all too quickly. Her precious little girl who was kicking away this morning, no longer has a heart beat. She will now labor several hours and then deliver this precious little one directly to heaven. I am so sad for her, I am crying in my lab not knowing what to do or say. I sat with her and laughed with her a little, not trying to belittle the situation but just lighten her heart for a moment. I have found the information for an organization called Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep that does free bereavement photography. I think it is an amazing service, some wonderful pictures when that will be all you have. I feel so spoiled to have 2 healthy boys who kept their daddy up tonight jumping off each other's beds when they were supposed to be sleeping. I know the Lord is infinite in his wisdom and mercy, but this is a low blow--the circumstances around this birth made it extra special. I was sure this little miss had a mission to serve in this life and I guess maybe she has just already done her service. My friend asked me simple things like how long she needed to stay at the hospital and I just can't bear to think of them wheeling her out of here empty handed. Never empty-hearted though. Is it truly better to have loved and lost then never to have loved at all? At times like these I am not sure, but at the same time I am. I also believe that she will have that little one to raise at another point in time though the ache in her empty arms while waiting will be unbearable. I guess the best I can do is just to be there as much as I can. I can't relate, I have no reference to do so, but I can still listen and just hold her hand. She has a great support team with her now for which I am truly grateful. If anyone reads this and thinks of this, say a little prayer for this family. They are hurting right now and so am I. Thanks.