A Tough Beginning
The photos of this amazing baby boy entered the world at 29 weeks. I met him and his beautiful mama after he had already spent 2 months in the NICU at the Royal Alex. It has not been an easy road for this family. They lost their second little boy, Westin, after being born too soon at 27 weeks. They spent a lifetime with him in just 10 days. Westin died in his mama’s arms and their hearts had been aching ever since. Joy has returned to this family with Jones’s arrival but it hasn’t been an easy start. His mom, Deanna, has been staying at the Ronald MacDonald House while Dad and big brother Gunnar travel from Red Deer and visit on the weekends.
Rainbow Baby Photo Session in the NICU Ward
Deanna contacted me to request a Rainbow Baby session and I was thrilled to be able to capture photos of her and Jones. I met her at the NICU at Royal Alex and memories came flooding back. My middle son, Oliver, had breathing problems so he spent 5 days in the NICU at the Royal Alex. I remember being wheeled in to see him and just starting to cry after seeing him hooked up to all the tubes. The kind nurses gently pushed a kleenex box my way and gave me time to take it all in. When Oliver was released it was a celebration with all the nurses and doctors smiling and waving goodbye. Sadly, not all babies make it out of the NICU so when a baby leaves in good health, there is joy and happiness for everyone.
My Memories
I told Deanna about our stay at the NICU and how the memories were vivid yet blurry as well. The focus on Oliver and his well-being didn’t allow me to remember all the details of his room and cute signs that the staff makes for each baby in the NICU. I made sure to photograph as much as I could for Deanna to remember.
So Sweet
Jones was so adorable and I arrived just as he was finishing his feeding. He is learning how to breastfeed now and is growing so big and strong. He loves being held by his mama and he hates being cold and having his diaper changed. Deanna was a champ with working around his tubes. I was in awe of her confidence with her baby.
Home Soon
Deanna was expecting Jones to be transferred to the NICU in Red Deer soon. Although it would be closer to home, she was nervous thinking about juggling her older son and spending time with Jones at the hospital. After watching her with Jones, I know that she will look after both her boys with love and confidence and her family will thrive from her devotion to both of them.
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