THE BIRTH OF SUTTON
Welcoming a new arrival is the best and so exciting. Welcoming Sutton was a whole extra experience. Katey and Charlie are the Parents of Sutton and had me document their first kiddo Hudson. Hudson was born with HLHS and was taken from NICU before his mama could even see him. I was invited to join them at Children’s in Dallas where I took on the challenge of doing a NICU Newborn Session. When Katey found out about Hudson’s diagnosis before he was born, she was so sad that those beautiful newborn images she pictured wouldn’t happen. When we connected during her pregnancy, I told her that I would see what magic we could make happen. Magic happened!
Hudson was a dream and the staff at Children’s helped make that magic happen. This was what his NICU set-up looked like and how many cords he was attached to. It was intense.
This was the type of images I was able to create. Mama was over the moon.
So imagine my excitement when they reached out to have me help welcome Sutton to the world! Sutton was being carried by a surrogate and would be arriving via c-section. Now began the next challenge! We worked hard to find the Surrogate a care provider and hospital who would help us achieve a Family-Centered C-Section. Harris Downton in Fort Worth was the winner!
june 19, 2024
Amy and I arrived at the Texas Harris Downtown on the morning of the 19th to welcome Sutton a little earlier than expected. The surrogate was having some health concerns and so it was time to welcome him to the family! I met Charlie and Katey in their own labor and delivery room, as their surrogate was getting settled with her own partner in her own room. Such a little thing that made all the difference.
Once M, the surrogate was ready for us, we went over to their room! Katey and Charlie were so excited and ready to meet Sutton. There were just overwhelming feelings of excitement and happiness. We all couldn’t wait!
it’s baby time!
We were so excited that the staff allowed for the Surrogate’s partner to be there to support her and also allowed Katey and Charlie to come back to the OR. Even more amazing was that they allowed me back to document the whole thing! We knew this would be a stretch in a crowded OR, but it was amazing!
meeting sutton
finally in mom’s arms
back in our own room
on our way to post-partum
The staff went above and beyond and bought some gifts for Sutton from his Big Brother Hudson and had them in the post-partum suite when we arrived. There was not a dry eye in the room.
We did those sweet newborn images of Hudson in the hospital so we decided to do just a few of Sutton as well. He was so sweet and sleepy and they turned out just precious.
As always, it was such an honor. While I am so excited to attend any birth, this family holds a special place in my heart and I am soooo happy to see their family grow.
