Chris Picco lost his wife Ashley in childbirth, and now the father’s touching tribute to his dying infant son is going viral.
Just hours before his son Lennon James passed away, Chris sat beside his son’s incubator and serenaded his son with Paul McCartney’s Blackbird. The video was uploaded to YouTube and then linked to Reddit where it went viral almost immediately, earning hundreds of user votes within hours.
On Thursday, Chris updated followers that Lennon James died, writing:
“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.”
Friends of Chris Picco have set up a memorial fund to raise money for medical expenses related to Ashley and Lennon James.
“Ashley Picco was a rare light, a gracious care giver, and deeply in love with her husband Chris,” the site read. “They were looking forward to becoming parents and raising their son together. Tragically and unexpectedly her life was cut short. We grieve with Chris and their extended family.”
The fund for Chris Picco has already surpassed its $50,000 goal, with the total quickly rising as the touching video goes viral.
