A family’s path to healing took a beautiful turn when they welcomed not one, but two rainbow babies after experiencing the heart-wrenching loss of their first child. A year after the tragic passing of their son, Noah, shortly after birth, Mia and Alex Bennett received a life-changing phone call. A baby boy was awaiting adoption, and they were asked if they would like to step in. Just a day after that call, the birth mother went into labor, and in August 2015, baby Leo—a symbol of hope—entered their lives.
The Bennetts reached out to photographer Sarah Lane of Birth Unscripted, who had previously documented their journey during Mia’s pregnancy with Noah. Mia shared with Home Insemination Kit that being in the same hospital for Leo’s birth felt like completing a cycle, especially since many familiar faces from the nursing staff were present.
“Leo marked the beginning of our family’s healing and the start of our rainbow,” Sarah conveyed in a message to Home Insemination Kit.
Just before adopting Leo, Mia discovered she was pregnant again. While she cherished every moment with her newborn, she found that the demands of caring for a baby helped distract her from the emotional turmoil that often accompanies a post-loss pregnancy.
“Leo was such a tremendous blessing,” Mia reflected. “He initiated our healing journey.”
As Mia’s pregnancy progressed, they were consistently told they were expecting a girl, but in a delightful twist, Mia delivered a baby boy named Max in March 2016—making him their second rainbow baby in under a year.
Mia and Alex, who also have an older daughter and son, reached out to Sarah and her partner, Amy Collins, to create a poignant photo shoot that would encapsulate their story. Having worked as a midwife, Mia was familiar with the concept of rainbow babies but didn’t have a clear vision for the photos. Sarah, however, brought her creative expertise to the project, and the result exceeded all expectations.
“[Mia] expressed that they truly are the rainbow at the end of their storm,” Sarah wrote in a post on Love What Matters. “We aimed to encapsulate all three brothers: one lost, one adopted, and one born.”
In the touching image, Leo and Max were placed at opposite ends of a rainbow, surrounded by soft clouds, while a butterfly hovered above to symbolize Noah’s presence. For parents who have faced the pain of miscarriage or stillbirth, this photo resonates deeply, capturing the bittersweet joy of welcoming rainbow babies.
“It’s been a long journey for their family,” Sarah remarked. “This image is a reminder of the blessings that emerged from their storm, ensuring that Noah will always be remembered.”
Mia emphasized the importance of discussing loss with families in mourning. Many people hesitate to mention the deceased, thinking it might cause additional pain, but she believes that talking about their loved one keeps their memory alive.
The current season of their lives has been challenging, as Alex recently underwent surgery to remove a tumor from his leg. Despite these trials, Mia noted that the renewed interest in their family’s story has provided them with strength.
“There will always be hard times,” she said. “But there will always be another rainbow.”
If you’re interested in learning more about the journey of home insemination, check out this insightful post on Intracervical Insemination. Additionally, for those seeking resources on pregnancy and home insemination, consider visiting UCSF’s fertility insurance FAQ, which provides valuable information.
In summary, Mia and Alex’s story is one of resilience and hope, showcasing how love and family can bloom even after immense loss. Their two rainbow babies are not just symbols of healing but are reminders that brighter days lie ahead.