Heart to Heart

Summary

In a heartfelt StoryCorps conversation, Yomi Young discusses her life with her mother, Sarah Churchill, reflecting on the challenges of living with a rare genetic disorder that causes fragile bones. Sarah shares her unwavering love and determination to care for Yomi, even in dire circumstances. As Yomi recounts her struggles and dreams, including her desire to become a mother, the bond between them shines through. Seven years later, Yomi fulfills her wish by adopting a daughter, with Sarah actively involved in their lives, highlighting a legacy of love and resilience.

Takeaways

• 👶 Yomi Young was born in 1972 with a rare genetic disorder that makes her bones extremely fragile.
• ❤️ Sarah Churchill, Yomi's mother, refused to leave her in the hospital despite the doctors' grim prognosis.
• 🪑 Sarah would sit in a rocking chair, holding Yomi and feeling a deep connection, saying, 'We have one heart, you and I.'
• 🛁 Caring for Yomi was challenging; Sarah recalls a moment when Yomi's arm broke while being bathed.
• 😢 Yomi tracked her fractures until they became too numerous to manage, resulting in emotional ups and downs.
• 🍊 A memory includes Yomi breaking a bone when one of her sisters accidentally dropped an orange on her.
• 👩‍👧 Yomi expresses regret about not having children, longing to continue the legacy of love her mother started.
• 🎁 Sarah believes that children come as gifts to their parents, emphasizing the bond they share.
• 💖 Yomi feels a strong connection to Sarah, believing that she was chosen by her mother, not abandoned.
• 👩‍👧‍👧 Seven years after their StoryCorps conversation, Yomi became a mother by adopting a daughter, continuing the cycle of love.

Q & A

What rare condition was Yomi Young born with?

Yomi Young was born with a rare genetic disorder that causes her bones to break under the slightest pressure.

What did the doctors say about Yomi's chances of survival when she was born?

The doctors informed Sarah Churchill that Yomi would probably die during the night, suggesting it would be best to leave her at the hospital.

How did Sarah Churchill respond to the doctors' recommendation?

Sarah Churchill refused to leave Yomi at the hospital and chose to stay with her, often holding her in a rocking chair.

What is the significance of the phrase 'We have one heart' in Sarah's reflection?

The phrase symbolizes the deep emotional connection and bond between Sarah and Yomi, suggesting they share a unique and inseparable love.

How did Yomi's condition affect her daily life growing up?

Yomi's condition led to frequent fractures; she initially kept track of them, but eventually they became too numerous to manage, impacting her daily activities.

What did Yomi express about her regrets regarding motherhood?

Yomi expressed regret for not having her own children, indicating a desire to carry on the legacy of love her mother had given her.

What belief did Sarah have about the relationship between parents and children?

Sarah believed that children come as gifts to their parents, suggesting a deep spiritual connection and mutual choice between them.

How did Yomi feel about her mother's decision to stay with her?

Yomi felt admiration for her mother’s decision to stay and care for her, indicating a profound appreciation for the love and commitment shown by Sarah.

What major life event happened seven years after their StoryCorps conversation?

Seven years later, Yomi became a mother by adopting a daughter, continuing the cycle of love that her mother had established.

What role does Sarah play in Yomi's life after her adoption?

Sarah visits often to spend time with Yomi and her adopted daughter, maintaining their close family bond.