After Tragedy, A Blessing For McElhone

Actress Natascha McElhone?s world was nearly shattered when her husband, plastic surgeon Martin Kelly died from a sudden heart attack. The actress, who was pregnant at the time later revealed that he had called her just 13 minutes before he collapsed, saying how excited he was about the baby and that he couldn?t wait to visit her in LA. McElhone was filming her series Californication at the time.

According to recent reports she has been seen in London with her newborn five months after her husband?s passing. Apparently the delivery was kept a secret, which is understandable given the intense scrutiny celebs sometimes have to endure. No information has been released about the baby, but it has been suggested that the birth took place at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London. The baby joins the couple?s two sons, eight year old Theodore and five year old Otis.

I am sure I am not alone in saying my heart goes out to Natascha in her grief, and shares her joy at this new blessing. I am reminded of other women who have had to endure devastating loss while pregnant. Mariane Pearl, wife of journalist Daniel Pearl, who was murdered in Pakistan, comes immediately to mind.

I am also reminded of the widows of those who perished on September 11 who were pregnant at the time. A number of US soldiers fighting in Iraq also never saw their children come into the world. Pregnancy can be difficult, but the added strain of losing a loved one, especially the child?s father is almost unimaginable. It?s easy enough to toss out aphorisms when you find yourself on the outside of a situation like this, but it is the mother to be who will have to find the strength to ensure that she continues to have a healthy pregnancy.

Indeed McElhone should be admired for her strength, as should every woman who has had to deal with loss during what should be one of the most joyous periods of her life. It is the ultimate reminder of the circle of life, and the fact that sometimes we are resilient not because we choose to be, but because we have to be.