Sam's Day - Back at Sprookjesboom

Nienke, Inge and Ellis at the Sprookjesboom in De Efteling.

Sam's Day - our very special day to remember the birth and death of our son Sam. As I wrote four years ago (with a few adjustments):


Twelve years ago, Martine gave birth to a baby boy. During an ultrasound days before, we found out that our baby had a neural tube defect that is, as they say, incompatible with life. Ten minutes after birth, Sam died...

Quite a few years ago, we decided that May 4th should be a family day for us. To celebrate life and the impact Sam's short life has had on ours. This impact not only consists of sad memories. There is also his actual birth and the fact that we were able to hold him and love him. A very positive and fond memory for us. Our families and friends have supported us and are still there for us whenever we need it. And we are very grateful we now have three wonderful girls. Life is good. And on May 4th, we want to make sure we remember that by having a fun day with our family. Seeing how the girls are real sisters and help each other when needed makes me a very proud father.


The girls like De Efteling so that's where we went once again. And of course, I just had to take a picture of them at the Fairy Tale Tree (Sprookjesboom). I have already informed them we will have to return even when they have grown up, just so we can have this shot of the three of them at the Sprookjesboom. Here they are four years ago and two years ago.