Some people’s paths are plagued with loss. But Justin Butcher and I have hope that His plan for us is greater. 

On Saturday, January 4th, our beautiful and perfect son, Elliott Lawrence Butcher was born sleeping at 26 weeks. He was 1lb 14oz and 13.5 inches long. He had brown hair, tiny ears, big feet, strong calves, and long and skinny limbs. There will never be an explanation good enough for me to accept that he is not here with us, and we know our pain has only just begun. 

This pregnancy was always our miracle, especially after our second trimester loss last spring. At 12 weeks pregnant, we learned that Elliott had a trisomy of the 21st chromosome (aka Down Syndrome). We quickly learned of Elliott’s struggle and also his perseverance to survive. Justin and I threw ourselves headfirst into learning how to be the best parents we could be for him. We educated ourselves, developed contacts, researched, made calls, and attended numerous doctor’s visits.  We were ready to be his parents, and for the joy he  brought into our lives. 

It never crossed our minds that we would lose him, but we did. And he gained eternity, healed and free from pain. Unexplainably, his little body did not make it earthside, and we are left with the memory and legacy that he leaves behind. In his short time with us, we learned exactly what it took to love and advocate for your child, and Elliott thus shaped us into better people. 

Our Elliott. Our kicker, mover and shaker. Fighter. Survivor. Miracle. Our forever angel of a son. Joined with your sister watching over us, until Mommy and Daddy are with you again. 

Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive; of this pregnancy, of his diagnosis, and of this loss. We don’t know where we would be without our circle or our faith.