Children are a gift. It’s a statement that is common as much as it is true.
Ohio couple, Matthew and Lyndsay Brentlinger, had spent years trying to start a family of their own. Fortunately, their dream would become a reality when Lyndsay gave birth to fraternal twins, William and Reagan.
However, prior to the twin’s birth, the couple was told that William was having problems with his heart.
“The left side of his heart was not functioning,” Lyndsay told ABC13.
The doctors informed the couple that William would likely be stillborn. A heart specialist told them that if William was born alive, there was no telling how long the little one would live.
But on December 17, 2016, the miracle babies were born. While the couple was thrilled, they were also very worried. Lyndsay, however, was just grateful to see their son.
“I was so happy they were finally here and that Will was stable,” Lyndsay shared.
The couple decided that they were going to spend, and enjoy, the limited time they would have as a family of four.
“We snuggled him, loved him, read to him and in general just enjoyed him.”
Because of the circumstances, Matthew and Lyndsay were able to take William home with hospice care.
Family friend, Mandy Edwards, wanted to help the family so she reached out to a photographer, whom she followed on social media, with hopes of having the newborn’s photos taken.
However, since it was just before the holidays and the couple didn’t have an appointment, they hoped for the best.
But, Lindsey Brown of Lindsey Brown Photography, took the assignment without hesitation.
“I knew immediately I had to do this for them. How could anyone with a heart say no to that?,” Brown asked.
Brown headed over to the Brentlingers on December 20 to capture some of the most important photos that the family will ever possess.
What stood out to Brown was how the family treated the situation as if there was nothing wrong.
“They treated both babies like nothing was wrong whatsoever. That was touching to see.”
Brown also detailed how perfect the children looked. She shared that William was often alert while Reagan slept for most of the session.
“I will say we noticed he was quite alert, and calm. Just staring around the room, gazing, like he was trying to take it all in. Little Reagan just snoozed the entire time!”
The session was so touching, they were all in tears by the end of it.
When Matthew recalled the day, he stated, “They were the happiest 11 days of my life.”
Although William was able to spend Christmas with the family, he passed away on December 28. He was only 11 days old.
Still, the family is grateful to have photos of their son. Not only will they be able to look back on the time they shared with their son, but Reagan will also be able to see her brother as well.
“Matt and I can look back at our time with our whole family together and remember our sweet son with the soulful big eyes. Reagan will hear about her special guardian angel and be able to see the love and special bond they shared together,” Lyndsay told TODAY.
What a heartwarming story. Because of these wonderful photos, the family will be able to look back on their precious time with their beloved son and brother, William.
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