After experiencing the heart-wrenching loss of their first child, a couple found joy in not just one, but two rainbow babies. A year after losing their son, whom they named Max, Emma and Noah Thompson received a life-changing call. They were informed that a baby boy was in need of adoption, and just a day later, the baby’s mother went into labor. In July 2015, baby Leo became the couple’s first rainbow baby, filling their home with hope and healing.
The Thompsons reached out to photographer Mia Bennett from Birth Unscripted, who had previously captured Emma’s pregnancy journey with Max, to document Leo’s arrival. Emma shared with Home Insemination Kit that being back in the same hospital where Max was born felt like a significant milestone, especially with familiar nursing staff present. “Leo marked the start of our family’s healing journey,” Mia noted in her correspondence with Home Insemination Kit.
Shortly before they welcomed Leo, Emma discovered she was pregnant again. The arrival of baby Leo not only brought joy but also helped her navigate the emotional complexities of a post-loss pregnancy. “Having Leo was a tremendous blessing,” Emma reflected. “He was the beginning of our healing.”
Throughout Emma’s subsequent pregnancy, they were told they were expecting a girl, only to welcome another surprise in February 2016—a baby boy named Finn, their second rainbow baby in just one year. Emma and Noah, who also have an older child, enlisted Mia and her colleague, Sarah Collins, to create a memorable photo shoot capturing their family’s story. Emma, having supported others through loss as a midwife, appreciated the concept of a rainbow baby, although she didn’t have a specific vision for the photos. Mia brought the idea to life beautifully, creating a visual representation of hope.
In the poignant image, the two babies were placed at either end of a vibrant rainbow, surrounded by soft clouds, with a butterfly hovering above to symbolize Max. This touching portrayal resonates deeply with anyone who has faced miscarriage or stillbirth. The photo, featuring both a rainbow baby by adoption and one by birth, alongside the butterfly for their lost child, evokes powerful emotions.
“It has been a long journey for their family,” Mia remarked. “This image symbolizes the many blessings they’ve experienced through their storm and serves as a reminder that Max will always be remembered.” Emma emphasized the importance of discussing loss with grieving families, as they navigate their grief daily, and sharing memories can help keep their loved ones’ spirits alive.
The Thompsons’ journey reflects the ever-changing seasons of life. As they celebrate new beginnings, they also navigate challenges, including Noah’s recent surgery for a leg tumor. Yet Emma remains optimistic, recognizing that while difficult times will arise, there will always be another rainbow.
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In summary, the story of Emma and Noah Thompson and their two rainbow babies is a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring bond of family, reminding us that after every storm, there is a chance for a beautiful rainbow to emerge.