Children of Tutova: Tribute to Alina

Below is a poem I wrote about one of my favourite children, Alina. My mom, who

travelled to Romania with me, was privileged to be paired up with Alina to care for her during the 3 weeks we were there. Alina, who was new to the clinic, melted our hearts and we would have taken her back to Canada if we could! We learned that she was 6 1/2 months old and weighed only 6 1/2 pounds and had Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, amongst other health problems. We saw this tiny--TINY--girl transform from being emotionless to being happy and interactive. Anyhoos, here's the poem about this precious pumpkin:

Her first nine months were lonely
There was poison in the womb
Alcohol was pumped to her

Would this also be her tomb?

But a fighter she would be
It was decided early on
Her strength and determination
Was like an ever-rising dawn

Six more months would pass her by
She’d lay and she would wait
When would her angel visit?
And to her heart—open the gate?

Alone in isolation
Her joy is drawing near
A visitor is coming
Her warmth will soon be here

June 2nd—the day has come
There is joy and love around
Up, out of her crib she comes
Only 6 little pounds

A singing voice so tender
A chest that’s comfy and warm
Lips to kiss her forehead
And arms to hug—now the norm

What is this? The attention
It’s so special and so nice
She reaches to touch the face
Of the lady who shines Christ

Her fingers so long and delicate
Her hair—golden blonde
Her lips and eyes and nose

Of each, Carol is fond

She is called Alina

The name—it means “light”
Indeed she lives up to it
Her smile and gentleness are bright

Note: Subsequent volunteers have sent e-mails and posted blogs sharing wonderful news about Alina. She turned 1 in November, has the cutest laugh, is very popular amongst the volunteers (no surprise!) and is learning to walk with assistance (at only 9 pounds!). She's a fighter and I miss her like crazy.

Here is my mom with Alina: