Two stories, one shared feeling
Sharon and Anneleen found each other through their own unique stories. In 2012 Sharon lost her little daughter Nina, yet she felt more of a mother than she had ever been. Although the loss brought her great sadness, she was at least as overwhelmed by love. That was when she knew how important it was to cherish that moment. So she called a photographer friend, who helped her capture it. They took hundreds of photos of Nina with dad, mum, her brother and grandad. Photos of all of them together. Photos she can show, photos she can always look back on. And she does, with pride.
In 2015, as a midwife, Anneleen had to hand over little Marilou, the baby of Roel and Anne-Sofie. So she suggested they take photos of their last moments together. She photographed the family, and the baby's little hands and feet. For three days she was allowed to share in their sorrow, happiness and pride. Afterwards she often heard how much those photos mean to them. From then on, Anneleen knew what beautiful memories she could give to families who have lost a baby.
Two unique stories brought Sharon and Anneleen together
Sharon and Anneleen found each other on social media through each other's story and got in touch. They felt connected through their pride, and this bond later became the driving force behind vzw Boven de Wolken, with which they want to offer free photo shoots to mums who have lost a baby. And so vzw Boven de Wolken was born on 14 April 2016, created by two women with their own, equally important experiences.
Since then, vzw Boven de Wolken has grown into an organisation with no fewer than 300 photographers and 50 administrative staff. Every year it receives more than 1100 calls, and in 2018 it expanded into Wallonia. The same goal always comes first: giving every parent who has lost a baby the chance to have a free photo shoot of their little one.
Let's find support in each other and give to each other ❤️
The photographers receive only a mileage allowance and the non-profit runs on donations. It is paid only in gratitude and fulfilment. WONDR thinks this is a wonderful story and so offered its support. Come and personalise your hand soap bottle and hand towel in our stores and do your bit for this beautiful initiative.
