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Can we feel love from our brainstem only? This is what the diagnosis of multicystic encephalomalacia makes me wonder. Avery looked so peaceful on his dad's chest. Because of his condition, his cerebral cortex was quiet, but his resilient brainstem kept him breathing, sleeping, and living peacefully for 3.5 months. Avery knew nothing in his short life but warmth, safety, and love. I think we feel love in different ways far beyond what science can map. #grief #infantloss #babyloss