Amanda and Todd Lockyer have just one wish for Mother’s Day — a heart for their nine-week old baby girl, Gracie Jean, who was born with a very small heart.
On Friday, two days before Mother’s Day, Doctors at Duke Children’s Hospital told them Gracie would be placed on the list for a transplant.
“We’re just praying,” said 26-year old Amanda, who is also Mom to 2-year old son Haddon.
“It’s hard, but it’s in God’s hands, so we’re just trying to be together and hope.”
When Amanda heard that volunteer stylists from Mitchell’s Salon were on hand, it didn’t take long to convince her that a trim and a blow dry would boost her spirits.
“I’ve needed a haircut for so long, but when your baby is in the hospital, you are NOT thinking about your hair,” said Amanda.
Stylist Natasha Bieber took great care in styling Amanda’s long, thick locks.
“She really has gorgeous hair and plenty of it and it’s a real treat to work with such great hair,” said Natasha, who lives in Raleigh.
While Natasha worked, Amanda shared photos of Gracie Jean with Natasha and Claire Meyerhoff, who does pro-bono communications work for the Ronald McDonald House. Along with her stylist/friend Janice Pilarczyk, she organized the “Mother’s Day; A Cut Above” event.
Amanda said it’s wonderful to see so many volunteers putting their skills to use.
“These stylists are such a blessing to all of us here on Mother’s Day. They’ve been standing on their feet all week and come in here on Mother’s Day to make us feel special. It’s the true spirit of Mother’s Day.”
(all photos courtesy of Dave Horne)
