URGENT UPDATE: In a heart-wrenching incident on Christmas Day, thieves broke into the vehicle of Citlali Valdivia in Milwaukee, stealing her purse and wallet, but most devastatingly, the last ultrasound photos of her late daughter, Carolina. Valdivia, who lost her baby at 24 weeks due to anencephaly, is now left without the only keepsake of her child.
Valdivia and her partner were preparing to deliver gifts to family members when they discovered the break-in. “I started instantly crying, because nobody wants to hear that on Christmas Day,” she said, reflecting on the emotional toll of losing both her daughter and the precious ultrasound photos that represented her memory.
The thieves shattered a tinted window of Valdivia’s car to gain entry, taking not only her wallet but also items like perfumes and gifts. However, it is the loss of the ultrasound that weighs most heavily on her heart. “That ultrasound was definitely special, because it was the last ultrasound I had of her at her 20-week anatomy scan,” Valdivia explained. The ultrasound strip featured multiple images of Carolina, including a poignant picture with a nurse’s notation reading “Hi, Mommy.”
Valdivia described her anguish over the theft, emphasizing that while material items can be replaced, the ultrasound photo is irreplaceable. “You guys could have just taken the cash. You guys could have just taken the gift cards, the perfumes. I didn’t care about that — that’s replaceable,” she said.
After discovering the theft, Valdivia promptly called 911. She is now urging the Milwaukee community to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities. “Just have compassion,” she pleaded. “If you see something suspicious in your neighborhood, just be vigilant. Call 911, call your neighbors.”
The stolen wallet is described as a pink Steve Madden wallet with three flaps and a side zipper, containing the ultrasound photos in a small pocket. Valdivia’s family is encouraging anyone who may have found the ultrasound to return it anonymously to a police station or safe public location.
This incident has sparked outrage and empathy within the community, highlighting the emotional and human impact of such a crime. As Valdivia faces the loss of her daughter and her precious memories, she hopes for support from neighbors and local authorities.
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