Most of you know Lauren, a big part of Be Inspired PR & Inspired by This. In April she joyfully announced that she and her husband Nate were expecting a new baby! Our wedding community poured out their love and heartfelt congrats to Lauren as she and her husband embarked on a journey that would change the rest of their lives.
For those of you who don’t know Lauren, she has Achondroplasia – the most common form of dwarfism, also referred to as a “little person.” Lauren doesn’t let that hold her back from anything. She’s hardworking, creative, a great friend and hands down the most stylish person in the Be Inspired office. However, there are complications Lauren and Nate face as little people that most of us aren’t aware of. Their baby has a 50% chance of inheriting one dwarfism gene and will be little like Lauren and Nate, a 25% chance their baby would not inherit a dwarfism gene and will be average size with no dwarfism, and a 25% chance the baby will inherit both dwarfism genes and will not survive outside the womb. About 4 months into her pregnancy Lauren was eligible for the genetic test that would tell her and Nate what genes their baby inherited. They were devastated to learn their baby was Double Dominant. They also learned that their beautiful baby was a boy. Despite knowing he would not live long past the delivery, Nate and Lauren chose to carry full term and cherish the time they had left with their little boy, who they decided to name Ray.
In June Lauren took maternity leave from us, and although we missed her greatly, we knew it was best as the pregnancy was becoming harder on her body. Baby Ray was quite active in the womb, lots of kicking and moving!
24 weeks along!!
Ray was born on August 7th via C-section, and was the picture perfect 5lb 7oz baby. He was loved tremendously for over an hour before going home to be with the Lord. While our hearts are absolutely broken for Nate and Lauren, Ray was deeply loved during his time on earth, with the best parents he could’ve asked for. We know Ray will be watching over his mom and dad, anxiously awaiting the day he gets to meet them in heaven. He will forever be their sweet little guy.
Lauren has been blogging about her experience in the hopes of reaching other parents who have gone through, or are going through something similar – Little Ray of Sunshine. A huge thank you to our community for surrounding Lauren with your support and encouragement during this tough time. It’s been awesome to see the love pour out for our Be Inspired family member. A big thank you to Amber from Pitbulls and Posies for designing the perfect logo for Lauren’s blog, Jordana from Hazelnut Photography for documenting Ray’s time on earth through a wonderful nonprofit called Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, Caroline from Paloma’s Nest for making a beautiful wooden box to hold the keepsakes Lauren and Nate have collected to honor Ray’s memory, and our close friends Carissa and Jesi for all their prayers, concern and words of encouragement.
Lauren asked us to share this with you all:
“First off, I would like to say thank you to everyone who has sent us love and prayers, your support has helped us tremendously throughout this trying time. We didn’t know what we were expecting going into this, all we knew was that we really wanted to meet our little guy. The moment Ray came out he let out a few good cries, we were so excited to hear them because we really didn’t think he would be strong enough. After they got him all wrapped up they put him on my chest and everything that I had been through -all the tears, sleepless nights, and uncomfortable days- were so worth it! He really was the sweetest baby. While he was on my chest he took a few deep breaths and then went into a relaxing sleep. Ray was loved on by our family and friends for about an hour. When he got back into my arms we could tell that there was no life left in him. The nurse confirmed it and although we were so sad, we were prepared for it. I didn’t know how long we would have with him, but I am so grateful for the time we did get. We cuddled and loved on him for a while longer and then we made the tough decision to let him go. That was the hardest part of the whole experience. I’m so grateful for everyone who has helped us along the way with prayers and support. It is totally by the grace of God that we are able to make it through this and share our story!”
Nate and Lauren have graciously shared their story and precious pictures of Ray to encourage and inspire all of you. Cherish the time you have with your loved ones… they’re the most important gift on earth.
We love all three of you!!
Little Ray with his grandmothers
Proud Dad :)
Kisses for Baby Ray!
Such a beautiful baby boy
iPhone photo
We love you Lauren and Baby Ray!! Lauren is now taking an extended leave of absence from our team. We invite you to share below any thoughts and prayers for Lauren and her family.
What a touching, precious story of true love. Thinking of the sweet family now.
Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Thoughts and prayers go to this sweet family! A truly inspiring and touching story of unconditional love. <3
please don’t miss this: “@weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe ”
Such beauty, sadness & strength.
My heart goes out to Lauren & her dear family.
Congratulations, Lauren and Nate! I know that you are the best parents that Baby Ray could have hoped for. Even though he was only able to bless this earth for a short while, he will forever be blessing the both of you. Lauren, I’m very proud to say that I know you. Congratulations on being a strong mother! Love, geri
This is so touching. My thoughts + prayers are with Lauren, Nate and their sweet Ray. What a strong family. Thank you for sharing this remarkable story!
Thanks for sharing such inspiring and touching story. Lauren and Nate, you both are very courageous and selfless. Our prayers are with you and your families.
Lauren and Nate, I pray for you guys often. Little Ray is dancing with Jesus! May God be your comfort and allow you peace and strength to get through this! I love you!
Lauren and Nate,
We never know how long the sun will shine, but I know for sure for that 1 hour it was brighter than ever before. Thank you for sharing. Your story puts everything in perspective. All 3 of you are touched by angels. xox Mindy
I cant stop crying after reading your blog. Im so touched that Lauren and Nate are able to share this very personal story. My heart aches for them as they go through this unimaginable time. I will think of them always. Lauren, you are so strong and brave and such a wonderful person. Im so lucky to know you and I wish you and your family love and support. Hugs to you and your family always. God bless baby Ray.
Thank you so much for sharing this story.
What an inspiration ~ thanks for sharing!
Our prayers are with Lauren and Nate, parents of the Little Ray of Sunshine.
Lauren and Nate, our thoughts are with you and your families! Thank you so much for sharing their strength, and reminding us all that every moment is a blessing that needs to be cherished.
An hour of Ray offers a lifetime of sunshine-True perspective, bravery and unconditional love. Thank you.
I can’t imagine having the strength to endure what Lauren and Nate have been through. What remarkable people. And what a beautiful little boy.
Lauren & Nate, Thank you for sharing this beautiful story of life with us. I cannot think of the right words to say after reading this and seeing such gorgeous photos of your time with Ray here on earth. I do agree with Jesi that Ray is dancing with Jesus in heaven. Prayers to you both.
My heart goes out to Lauren and her family. They are so strong and lucky to have spent the time they did with baby Ray.
Thank you for sharing this incredibly remarkable story. What a beautiful family. God Bless Lauren and Nate and baby Ray. Love from Haute Bride. xo
Lauren and Nate, my heart, thoughts and prayers go out to you. What a beautiful story and thank you for being so strong to share it with us all. We all feel blessed and touched by this and I personally can’t stop crying. God is good and will continue to bless you both tenfold. And as you know, Sweet Baby Ray is in Heaven and will always be there to watch over you and take care of you the way that you did him. XOXO
This is so touching RT @weddingPR Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
A beautiful story of selfless love. Don’t miss it. RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… http://su.pr/1rzWXe
An inspiring story via @weddingpr today….we are thinking of you Lauren…. http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
There are no words I could say that would let you know how much I admire and respect you and your decisions. God had a great plan for you, Nate and Little Ray! Thank you so much for giving us a glimpse into your life and letting us meet Ray, what a joy! Your courage and devotion to Ray is truly an inspiration. God has already blessed you and there is no doubt that he will continue to do so.
Lauren and Nate you two are so loved! Ray’s story is beautiful and heart breaking. Thank you for being brave and sharing your story. Sending love and prayers from NYC. Xo Kellee
My heart goes out to Lauren and her family, thank you for sharing their story!
Dear Lauren and Nate, Thank you for sharing this beautiful story with us. Emily has kept me posted through out your pregancy. Our prayers go out to you both, and i want let you know that emily and i are here for you both!!
It was incredibility brave to share your story Lauren! Ray is so lucky to have had you and Nate as his parents – you are amazing!! xoxo
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing this with the world. It is amazing to see the strength in such difficult situations. Lauren & Nate, you are courageous and inspiring.
Such an inspiration! RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
thank you so much for sharing. My thoughts and prayers are with Lauren & Nate @weddingPR http://su.pr/1rzWXe ”
RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Lauren and Nate and Ray.. you are all truly the epitome of beautiful. The incredible strength you both have had through the pregnancy, then meeting baby Ray, and finally sharing your story is so tremendously touching and inspiring. I have thought of you often and cannot express how much I admire you. One of my favorite proverbs ““Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
Such a gorgeous post..it helps us remember that each blessing no matter how big or small is a blessing still the same. Lauren and Nate, Ray was promoted early, and i’m sure he is celebrating with many loved ones.
lauren thank you for sharing your story of courage. i cant even begin to imagine going through all this. what a blessing to cherish in the time you and family had with sweet little ray. he truly is an angel to touch your lives for his short time here. you are an incredibly strong woman!! thank you for being inspiration of love, and cherishing all the moments in life you are given!!!
Nate and Lauren- thank you so much for sharing this incredible story with us! You are all so inspiring!
touched by this story of a family’s strength, love, and courage. @weddingpr http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
I can’t even get through reading this through all of the tears. Lauren and Nate, I admire your strength through all of this and can not imagine what you have gone through and will forever carry with you. Ray was a beautiful baby boy and is now a precious angel that will be with you forever. I know your story and your blog will help so many, you are doing an amazing thing in honoring and carrying on Ray’s beauty. This story really has allowed me to think on so many levels and I am so grateful for you that you shared this with all of us!
Lauren and Nate you are so brave! Words can’t express how inspiring and amazing you are as a couple to endure and share this time in your life! Ray was so beautiful and you are constantly going to feel his love from heaven now. I just cried and cried reading this and celebrate you two for sharing your story! You are so courageous! Your story is just incredible!!!
Love you Lauren and Nate! So thankful you shared your story… Sweet baby Ray couldn’t have been more loved. You and Nate are an inspiration to us all xoxo
Love from SF Lauren, Nate, and Ray! Your story and photos are so beautiful…Ray is such a handsome baby and how lovely to have an angel in heaven looking over you both. You are so inspiring and courageous. <3 <3 <3
Lauren and Nate – Tyman and I are so blessed to count you two as close friends. Your story is so inspiring, and I have no doubt God is going to use it to touch the lives of many many people. Ray will forever be remembered as a perfect little baby, tremendously loved by his parents and by His Father in heaven. You three are a shining example of pure and sacrificial love, the kind of love we should all strive to have. Thank you for sharing your story, you’re an inspiration to us all!!!
Thank you so much for sharing this incredibly touching story. My heart goes out to you Lauren and Nate.
su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
If u ever think u r having a bad day, chances are someone else is having a tougher one. Thanks @weddingpr for sharing. http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
My thoughts are with Lauren and her beautiful family Thank you for sharing your story!
@weddingPR Touching and they are far stronger than we could ever be!
Thank you for sharing this touching story of love and strength RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… http://su.pr/1rzWXe
@weddingPR wow is all I have to say. Tears and admiration for Lauren and her family. Thanks for sharing.
a true love story. <3 you, baby Ray, lauren, & nate. RT @weddingPR Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine..her inspiring story http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Devestating! :( RT: @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
@weddingPR As a new mother myself, this is gut wrenching! I wish them nothing but peace in knowing that their baby is with the Lord.
RT: @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
i really thought i had cried all i could over this and now reading about it has me bawling all over again…lauren and nate – i cannot imagine the strength you two have in each other and the lord to get through this…you two are an inspiration to me as a parent and it reminds me daily to cherish every second with my family…thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for sharing your story and for being an example of bravery to us all! i love you both and i pray you continue to lean on each other and god through these tough times…we will never forget baby ray and the sweetness he brought to this world…sending endless love and prayers…
xoxo, C
RT: @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
@weddingPR what an inspiring story of strength. Thanks for sharing. Praying for their healing hearts. xo http://su.pr/1rzWXe
RT: @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
“@weddingPR: http://su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/ ” / Incredible story
i can’t stop crying :( RT @weddingPR: http://su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren – Sharing her baby story…
this puts EVERYTHING into perspective! RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine…sharing her inspiring story http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us ..it puts all the little everyday worries into perspective and we do need to be reminded to live and love life to the fullest. You two are amazing parents and people ~ sending our love and wishes! xo
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
I am beyond heart broken reading this story, but so touched how Lauren and Nate were through this, and how strong they are to inspire all of us to be better. I wish I could stop crying long enough to type this, but my deepest thoughts are with them.
I will squeeze my little guy more today RT @weddingPR: Lauren is sharing her baby story on the be inspired blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
God Bless. RT@weddingPR RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine…sharing her inspiring story http://su.pr/1rzWXe
I’m sitting here at my desk with tears running down my face. Cannot seem to quiet my emotions as I read and re-read this post. I am overwhelmed at Lauren and Nate’s inspirational story of courage and bravery. Thank you for sharing. May this community bring Lauren and Nate some rest and peace. God Bless.
Heartbreaking but powerful: RT @weddingpr: http://su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren.
Definition of strength RT @weddingpr: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
If you read one thing today, let it be the story of @WeddingPRLauren and her family. http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ … (via @weddingPR)
http://su.pr/1rzWXe Cherish the time you have with your loved ones… they’re the most important gift on earth. Via @weddingPR
you just have to read. RT @weddingpr: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
RT @JL_DESIGNS: this puts EVERYTHING into perspective! RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine..inspiring story http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Lauren & Nate…thanks for sharing your story with us. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys. Baby Ray was lucky to have you as parents. You guys are such an inspiration. Sending our love and prayers to you both. xo Lesley & Amir
Thank you for sharing your story and reminding us to appreciate life! You are a true inspiration!
lots of love and prayers for lauren and nate and their little guy ray. lauren, i don’t know you, but your story moved me. know that your family is loved so much by so many!
RT @weddingPR http://su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
@weddingPR I am a mess. Wow. What strength they both have – amazing! What a lil cutie pie he was. How sad.
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
Baby Ray was indeed loved. Thoughts and prayers for the entire family. What an incredibly heartbreaking story. Hopefully, other parents going through the same heartache can take some solace from you.
I am simultaneously heart broken for the family and inspired by their strength and poise. Tonight I’ll be thinking of Baby Ray and sending my love to him up there with the stars xxxx
Simply an amazing story……. their courage is beyond amazing…..
Lauren and Nate- thank you for sharing your story and my thoughts have been with you! You have such incredible strength and I’m sure with that will come a great resiliency and beautiful memories to treasure. Thinking of you- Courtney
Lauren and Nate, God bless you both for your faithfulness. You gave Ray the most beautiful life – one in which he knew only love and light and comfort and family. You made enornous sacrifices to give your sweet baby a wonderful hour on this planet and the loving transition into the next world that he deserved. You will both be in my hearts, thoughts, and prayers for a lifetime, and the choices you made will be a light in the world for generations to come. God bless.
RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Lauren @weddingPR story of strength & adversity is tugging at our heart strings today. Sending her family lots of love. http://bit.ly/P07Fv3
Thank you Leila for sharing Lauren and Nate’s deeply personal and touching story. Their courage, strength and unconditional commitment for each other is absolutely astounding and beautiful.
I write this over tears for you. Thank you for sharing your courage and strength with us and for your story. What a tremendously beautiful and warm family for that little one… and you will be in our thoughts and prayers. thank you thank you for sharing.
warmly,
the kelleys
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
inspiring story on @weddingPR today so impressed by this family’s courage and strength. prayers for them. http://tinyurl.com/8dt9w2c
Leila, thank you for sharing Lauren & Nate’s story with us, oh how I wish I was with them to give them so many hugs..I’ll truly keep them in my prayers and baby Ray is just the cutest and know that he is in heaven with our Lord and Savior. We love you Lauren and Nate…xoxo
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
@weddingPR Saying very special prayers today for Lauren and Nate..truly an inspring story….xoxo
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
Lauren and Nate, thank you so much for sharing your tremendously touching story. Your courage and strength is absolutley inspiring and has touched me in a way I have never been before. Thank you for sharing Ray with the world…..we are all better people because of him and his story. Lots of love and prayers to you all…xo
This story brought me to tears, it is such a tremendous act of strength and courage to go through this journey and share it with the world. My thoughts and prayers go out to Lauren & Nate and to their entire families.
2 of the strongest, most courageous, loving people I have ever read about. Your story brings tears to my eyes, but faith in the love twp people share for another.
RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… sharing her inspiring story on the blog today http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Lauren, you and Nate are an absolutely amazing example of God’s grace! What a gift to give your sweet son–the chance to meet you in person, be held in the arms of those that love him, and be sent to heaven while encircled in all of that love!! Such an incredible story of true love and sacrifice!
Overwhelming + touching. Lauren, you’re an inspiration. Beautiful inside + out! RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Ray of Sunshine http://su.pr/1rzWXe
@weddingPR thinking of you all. You are an incredible family/team at Be Inspired PR. Sending love + prayers to Lauren, Nate & baby angel Ray
A reminder that every moment is precious RT @weddingPR: http://su.pr/1rzWXe Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren
Lauren @weddingPR shared such a beautiful story today of sacrifice and grace. Totally teared up reading their story http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
Our hearts and thoughts are with Lauren + Nate. Thank you for sharing your strength. A must read on @weddingPR today: http://ow.ly/d9T65
@greylikes @weddingPR @weddingPRLauren wept when I read the story. How encouraging, beautiful, and strong every word is.
a story of a beautiful family, an angel, sacrifice and true love over on @weddingPR today. http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
with a huge lump in my throat and the tears streaming, we send all of our love to Lauren of @weddingPR http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
A truly inspiring story. Such a beautiful family and SO brave. God bless.
Lauren and Nate, a touching snippet into your lives.. thank you for being you and for sharing this, you are so loved and i can see why, love to you.. hugs!
God bless Nate, Lauren and Ray. You’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Sweet, touching and courageous. Thinking of Lauren and her family.
@weddingchicks @weddingpr my heart is broken. Blessings to Lauren and her husband
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
wow, you are so inspiring. My hope is that you will feel a peace that only God can give. God bless you!
Wow. A must read. Talk about inspiring. @weddingPR #braveryandstrength http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
Sending love to Lauren and Nate. Thank you for sharing your incredibly touching story. @WeddingPR http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
True testament of strength, courage & faith RT @weddingPR Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine-inspiring story on the blog http://su.pr/1rzWXe
What a story of strength and love. I will keep them in my prayers“@weddingchicks @weddingPR http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …”
I heard about you from my daughter in law Candy Lamica and was sad , and i just read you story and was even more sad . My heart goes out to you and you husband , and will pray God gives you peace and know your little Ray is with Him ! Your son was truely beautiful as are you and your husband for wanting to meet him . Good luck and God Bless !!
Keeping Lauren of @weddingpr in our hearts and prayers! http://bit.ly/NloJWy
Love, Light & Prayers for Lauren & her sweet family RT @loverly:Keeping Lauren of @weddingpr in our hearts and prayers! http://bit.ly/NloJWy
What a beautiful story and a beautiful little boy. Lauren and Nate, our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Hugs to you both.
My goodness…my eyes are welling up, and my heart swelling. What a strong and beautiful family…Peace, prayers and strength to Mom and Dad.
I will keep Lauren and her family in my prayers and my heart. Thanks for sharing this touching story.
So glad you shared with us. The Lord was truly with you through all of this. What a beautiful peaceful little guy. So glad you had time with him. God bless you both.
What an inspiring couple with such huge hearts! My prayers are with them!
Dear Lauren, Ever since your first note, I’ve prayed for you and Nate with my whole heart. Sweet Ray is such a gift to us all, and your beautiful & devoted conviction shines through as a beautiful example to each of us. Praying for comfort and peace, and sweet Ray to always warm your skin, allowing you to feel his sweet warmth. xxoo
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. Sending my love your way, Lauren, Nate and baby Ray. xx
@weddingchicks @weddingpr oh my, that is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever read. How strong they were for that little man xx
Want to hear an incredibly touching story? Read this post this post on @weddingpr’s blog. Lauren you are amazing! http://ow.ly/da1Vw
This was such a beautiful story that, in it’s perspective, offered the reader their own “Ray” of sunshine …
Praying for Lauren & her family….
May Lauren have peace knowing she’ll see baby Ray again someday! She and her husband were so courageous.
Thank you for sharing their story. I will be praying for you, Lauren, and your family.
Events Thank you for sharing! Praying for Lauren and her precious family.
Thank you for sharing this with us, our prayers are with you and Nate, you have touched our life, may God bless you as your little angle watches from above! Leila and Tony has shared with us, the many struggles you were facing, truly, you’re an amazing mom. May the Ray of Sunshine always shines upon you both!
@weddingchicks @weddingpr So brave they all are, my heart aches for them.
Bless your souls in every way possible Lauren & Nate. Although time spent with Sweet Baby Ray was short & sweet it was also PRICELESS. I admire you for the choices made, love shared & breathless moments. You will FOEVER be in my heart & prayers…
So proud of Nate and Lauren for your strength and faith, you are an inspiration. Baby Ray was such a beautiful boy, and I’m so glad that I go share a few moments with you on that day, I will cherish it forever.
This is truly amazing of the strength and love that Lauren and Nate have. My heart goes out to them.
What a heartbreaking story, such beautiful moments spent with a very precious life, nothing can ever replace this now. My heartfelt admiration for Lauren and Nate and wishing them both much peace and love in their lives.
I am so touched by your story and my deepest sympathy goes to you and your family. Angel Ray will be watching over your shoulder as well as the rest of the family’s. Indeed, he is one of the sweetest baby I have ever laid my eyes on. Beautiful and angelic face. God Bless… :-)
RT @weddingPR: http://su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog
My thoughts & prayers are with Lauren, Nate & their loved ones. May peace & comfort be theirs during this difficult time~
Lauren & Nate – the strength, courage, unconditional love, and sacrifice you have made to meet Baby Ray is completely awe-inspiring. It was truly better to have loved than to not have loved at all. I wish you continued strength & courage, and thank you for sharing your story with all of us. We’re all rooting for you!!!
Lauren & Nate, You are both courageous. I am moved and inspired by you both. As I sit here writing this comment, I can’t hold back the tears because I know how much God has blessed you so much love from Baby Ray. What a beautiful baby boy he is! Sending you thoughts and prayers of strength, courage and love.
So touched by Lauren’s story on @weddingPR today. http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
“Cherish the time you have w/ your loved ones. They’re the most important gift on earth.” – Lauren of @weddingpr – http://bit.ly/PGKWCv
@weddingpr thank you for sharing such a moving blog post. Our love and prayers goes out to you Lauren HUG! http://bit.ly/PGKWCv
@greylikes Lauren @weddingPR shared such a beautiful story today of sacrifice and grace. Praying for u http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
Wow. Perspective. @UtterlyEngaged “Cherish…your loved ones… most important gift on earth.” – Lauren @weddingpr http://bit.ly/PGKWCv
blessings! How difficult this must be…Glad to know you lean on the Lord, don’t know how anyone could do it without God.
What an amazing couple and son! I cannot begin to understand their journey but can say that I will pray for peace in their lives as this will be forever the beat and hardest journey they will ever take! Thank you for sharing your story Lauren and I pray that one day (not so soon) you and your husband are reunited with ray and get to spend eternity holding him!
thank you for sharing your story. our thoughts are with you all xoxo
Warming and heart breaking, hugs and much love to your family Lauren. Wishing you all the best.
Gives me a new perspective on life.. so inspiring RT @weddingPR Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Feel incredibly humbled today by Lauren’s story & the overwhelming support of our little community. THIS is true love : http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Sending all our love to Lauren and Nate. Their inspiring story of strength and true love is told on @weddingPR today. http://ow.ly/da963
A little prayer for Lauren, her husband and Ray from me and Leonardo (my 4 months baby boy). Ray, fly high and take care of your parents.
I think this is the HAPPIEST most joyous email that I opened today. Thank you, thank you. It was so lovely to just melt into pure joy the minute I opened your blog today.
Such an amazing and heartfelt story. Our love to Lauren, Nate & their “little Ray of sunshine” cc @weddingPR http://www.inspiredbythis.com/category/after-the-wedding/ …
Sending love. RT @weddingPR http://su.pr/1rzWXe:Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren, sharing her special baby story on the blog
My heart & prayers go out to Lauren, Nate and their angel Ray. Thank you for sharing. All my love, Petronella
My heart goes out to Lauren, Nate and Baby Ray. What a heartwarming story of love and strength. I send my heartfelt condolences, but know that Baby Ray will be smiling down on Mom and Dad forever. XOXO
Prayers for Lauren- Thx @PitbullsPosies @HazelnutPhoto @palomasnest for being a part of the loss+joy that inspires us – http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/
My heart aches for this brave couple. They are in my prayers and thoughts.
Prayers for peace in your hearts along side strong and happy memories of the most important hour on earth.
What an amazing family! I am in awe of their strength and faith in God. Little Ray was blessed to spend time with the most loving parents. God bless!
my heart goes out to Lauren, Nate & baby ray.. thank you so much for sharing your incredibly touching story
I’m in tears right now as I read this. As the mother of my own little boy I cannot even imagine how hard and heartbreaking this is, and my heart goes out to you. Sending love & thoughts. xx
@weddingPR Sending peace and healing to Lauren and Nate http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
Prayers for Lauren- Thx @PitbullsPosies @HazelnutPhoto @palomasnest for being a part of the loss+joy that inspires us – http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
@weddingPR Thank you,Leila. It’s an honor to be able to create something to help cherish such precious memories. Sending love & prayers.
Praying for their family. Thank you for sharing.
Today we honor Ray’s life and the inspiration you have breathed into our hearts. You are like family and the joys and sorrows that are apart of your journey are also apart of ours.Tony and I are moved by your strength. You gave Ray the gift of life and God gave us the gift of Ray to remind of us of hope, love, and goodness in the world.
I will do a jig for baby Ray today and every time I hear this song :)
This is for you:
“We will wait” to meet Baby Ray again one day…
until then we will think of him and love him always!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kS8RTRi7HA
Our thoughts and love are with @weddingpr ‘s team member Lauren today. http://su.pr/1rzWXe so important to us!!!
My heart and prayers go out to Lauren, family and friends. That was the most heartfelt and touching story. I still have tears in my eyes. Lauren you are an inspiration and I wish you and your family all the best in life! ;-)
This breaks my heart but is such a wonderful testimony. Lauren is a brave and beautiful mother!
We often say that “there are no words” to describe the loss of a child. I recently travelled down this similar words and I beg to differ. There are words, hope, love, promise, compassion and faith just to jot down a few. I will say a prayer for you tonight. While when we embark on this journey of parenthood we don’t prepare for this to happen but through grace and faith you can see the beauty in this little life. He is yours, you ARE mommy and daddy and he is and will be loved, even if you only had him in your arms for what seemed like a whisper. Thank you for sharing his beauty with all of us.
Ray is so beautiful. I wish he were here with you both. xx
It broke my heart reading this story but you are both such brave and wonderful people. Thoughts, love and prayers for you at this difficult time xoxoxo
My love and thoughts are with this beautiful family. To Leila, that you have shared their story with such love and compassion is beautiful. What a wonderful friend you are.
Lauen & Nate my love goes out to you both at this amazing & sad time for you both YOUR little Ray of sunshine is just beautiful . May God hold him safe in his arms & you will always hold him safe in your hearts … YOU ARE BOTH AMAZING … God bless you Mummy & Daddy xx
You are both incredibly brave and strong people and your little ray of sunshine is adorable, breaks my heart but thoughts are with you xo
What a beautiful baby boy, and what a beautiful love story. Still crying – sadness, happiness, wonder, love, compassion, hope xx
some children are not loved like this there whole life like you loved your Ray x x
This is completely heart breaking but I am so proud and happy that you are all strong enough to share with your online family. Much prayers to Lauren, Nate and the whole Be Inspired team! xoxo
Nate and Lauren, the story of your love for Ray is powerful and beatiful. Thank you for sharing as I was unaware of the struggles little people go through to have children. I’m so glad you were blessed to hold and love on Ray for that precious hour. I know he will always be in your hearts and one day you will be reunited. What a joyful day that will be! May God continue to give you bestow his strength, love and compassion on you.
Congratulations on meeting Ray! Thank you so much for sharing your images and experience! I will hope and pray that you are able to have more children when the time is right. Each is precious and a miracle and you will see him again after this life. I know you will! Heavenly Father loves and cares for you and knows your concerns. Thanks for being such a strong family and sharing of yourselves.
Oh gosh, bawling my eyes out! This is so incredibly sad but inspiring at the same time. I admire Lauren & Nate’s strength, it’s a true testament to the human spirit. Sending lots of love xo
Hugs to Lauren + family. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
My heart aches with joy and sadness as the world was graced with such loving parents and a beautiful baby boy who too soon was out of breath. Thank you for sharing your story! Hugs, love and prayers.
lauren and nate, i don’t even know where to begin. you two are the definition of strength and inspiration. there is more love within your family than some people will ever get to experience in their lifetime. and while the bright light of a blessing that was ray only lasted a little while, his memory and spirit will be with y’all for the rest of your lives. sending hugs and kisses and prayers from the lone star state. xo, linds
Your grace and bravery to continue on the journey that was set before you is inspiring to say the least. Thank you for sharing your story. A reminder that attitude is everything.
Lauren & Nate, I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling so honoured that you shared your story with us. An unimaginable trial for you both, but the strength and bravery you’ve shown in carrying though to full term and accepting little Ray’s short time with you is an inspiration, and to share such a private time with others in order to help them, is a beautiful thing. Continue to be strong through the days ahead, and know that you have all the support and love of so many around the world whom you may never meet, but who are truly inspired by you both…
Lauren & Nate, I’ve tried to imagine and just can’t. Your strength and willingness to share your story is amazing and inspiring. Thank you for blessing others, comforting others, and touching lives with your story, even in this most difficult time. Love and prayers from the east coast!
RT @weddingPR Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine-inspiring story on the blog http://su.pr/1rzWXe
@weddingPR I can’t stop thinking about this amazing family.
RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
a story of strength & love the world should learn from RT @weddingpr http://su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Lauren http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
May God fill their hearts during this difficult time.RT @loverly:Keeping Lauren of @weddingpr in our heartsand prayers! http://bit.ly/NloJWy
Our hearts are with Lauren – so touched by her story on @weddingpr: http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
This is so meaningful for our family right now..thank you.
Thanks for sharing. Amazing story and parents. Prayers and thoughts are with Lauren and her family.
I have been thinking about them all day. This is the sweetest picture. Sending healing thoughts to Lauren and her family.
moved to tears (sobs actually) sending them so much love xo RT @weddingPR: Lauren’s Little Ray of Sunshine… http://su.pr/1rzWXe
Such a tough, but beautiful story. RT @weddingPR: su.pr/1rzWXe : Our hearts ache for Be Inspired team member Lauren. Sharing her special baby story on the blog http://instagr.am/p/Oo3bYewknJ/
can’t stop thinking about them all
Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers! We are so blessed to have so much love in our lives and so blessed to have the time that we got with our sweet Ray. We are so touched that his short little life has already touched so many people and will continue to!
RT @greylikes: Lauren @weddingPR shared such a beautiful story today of sacrifice and grace. Totally teared up. http://www.inspiredbythis.com/2012/08/laurens-little-ray-of-sunshine/ …
Lauren, you have grown into such a beautiful woman! So sorry to hear about your little one but glad you had some time with him. Take care, hi to your family. Love, Allora MacMahon
Prayers for this beautiful family! Thank you for sharing your story. I cannot imagine the pain of losing your precious baby boy.
Truly inspirational! This is a pure example of unconditional love. A Ray of Sunshine and Hope and Love…
Dear Lauren and Nate, My thoughts and prayers are with the both of you as you go through the loss of your beautiful son. I hope that you both stay strong for eachother. My husband and I both have Achondroplasia as well. In the past 3 years we have had two babies that were diagnosed with Double Dominance it was very hard for us to get through it but we stayed strong for our oldest son. Thanks for sharing your story with us. If you ever want to talk to anyone feel free to contact me at lp_8402@yahoo.com. I’ll be here for you.
God Bless. I am so sorry for your pain and thank you for sharing.
Thanks for sharing Be Inspired, my prayers go out to Nate, Lauren, and their families. Ray will forever hold a place in my heart and thoughts.
So inspirational but painfully sad. What amazing people Lauren and Nate are. You have inspired many lives little Ray, your time on this earth wasn’t wasted, God bless you. xxxxx
Nate and Lauren–Philippians 4:11, “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.” You have; you can; you will.
Jesus loves me this I know…
Love and prayer, Krista and Mike :)
Sending so much love to you, Nate, and baby Ray. You have the most amazing strength and grace. Thank you for sharing your story and your unconditional love and faith.
What a beautiful, heartbreaking post. My heart cries for this family. Lauren, Nate, much love is headed your way. Hold on to your faith and family.
Lauren + Nate, you are both so so brave and I wanted to thank you guys for sharing your story. It really reminds us to treasure everything and not take it for granted. Baby Ray is so adorable and I can’t even imagine the pain you both are going through. Sending you both lots of love + prayers.
Congratulations and best wishs and happines.
Lauren and Nate, my heart goes out to you both during this very trying time. I deeply admire your strength and your faith. All three of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending lots of love your way! xoxoxo
Lauren and Nate, Our hearts go out to you during this sad time. Thanks for sharing your story with us. You’re so much stronger than I am. It’s been 12 years since our son, Ben was stillborn because he was dd and we’ve never done a blog. If you need someone to talk to that knows the pain you’re going through, feel free to contact me. Hugs!!!
My heart goes out to you during this sad time. I can’t even imagine what you are feeling right now or going through. Some dear friends of mine are working on a project: The Still Project where they are creating a documentary discussing pregnancy and infancy loss. The facebook page has become a community for all to share their stories and get support.from others who are going through or have experienced a loss of a precious baby. It is a great project that may help you a bit through this time. Jonathan and Carrie who are over the project are awesome people and a great pillar of support. Many blessings to you and your family.
http://www.facebook.com/StillProject