Heart-warming and gut-wrenching, at the same time
Chris Picco experienced an incredible pain over a span of a four days in California, after his wife, Ashley Picco, died following an emergency c-section delivery of his just 24-week old newborn son. Ashley was just 30 years old. His son, Lennon James Picco, was born dangerously premature and didn’t stand a great chance of surviving, and though Chris Picco couldn’t do much for his son, he offered emotional support in the form of music.
Ashley would often feel Lennon moving to music so I brought my guitar today and gave him a little concert.
Chris brought his guitar to his ailing son’s bedside, and sang The Beatles’ classic “Blackbird” record, and the video has since gone viral. It’s been viewed over 200,000 times since it surfaced last week. A memorial fund has been set up for Ashley Picco, and has already accumulated over $60,000 in donations. In light of all the attention Chris’ losses garnered him over the past week, he released this statement to thank his supporters.
Four days after he was born, Lennon James Picco passed away in his father’s arms. You can watch the video of Chris’ “little concert” above.
Dear friends, family, and supporters; it is with an unbelievably heavy heart that I write this.
My little fighter, Lennon James Picco went to sleep in his daddy’s arms late last night.
He was surrounded by family, friends, and the best doctors, nurses and hospital staff in the world.
He was dressed in an outfit that Ashley bought for him, with little guitars on it, and wrapped in a blanket made by a dear friend.
I am so thankful for the four unforgettable days I got to spend with him.
His mommy would have been so beyond joy to see him and to hold him, touch him, bathe him, sing to him – as I have had the privilege of doing.
I have been so blessed and honored to love him before he was formed, to cherish him while mommy carried him, meet him face to precious face, and hold his perfect little body while we said “goodbye for now”.
There are no words, but I wanted to keep you updated, as your love and support has meant more than anything in the world.
All you need is love.