Austin John Swenby

[meriharary]

This is very moving and a beautiful tribute to your special baby. You did the right thing by giving birth and giving him life, even though it was brief. This baby experienced your love. You did your best. You are very brave.

[cheerful930]

what a beautiful song so sorry for your loss

[channing3700]

God didn't give us such a precious gift to abort..It is our responsiblility to follow through Gods plan he has for us.April you and your family are in my prayers..

[Hans021220]

Rest in peace,sweet angel!

Greetings from Norway

[Lapisme]

Thank you for such a beautiful song and video. My eyes opened up to not seeing a deformity but seeing loving parents and a childs short life that has lasting effects!

[Hans021220]

I am so sorry for your painful loss!

He is now with Jesus in heaven!

Greetings from Norway

[SuperKimala]

i found out about my baby at 20 weeks, but my dr, told me that if i didnt have an abortion that i could hurt myself or end up dying while giving birth. then i watch these videos of parents giving birth to their babies. i feel horrible about what did knowing i could have met my baby. im just glad you got to meet yours!!

[aprilswenby]

@SuperKimala I am so sorry for your loss as well. You know - it is STILL a loss don't be so hard on yourself. You can still fill out your baby's destiny by voicing your regret.

[aprilswenby]

@SuperKimala It is unfortunate that doctors push abortion - so very unfortunate. Many, Many women struggle with that choice made at such a vulnerable time. Really, no matter how far a long we were when we gave birth as moms, we still love our babies the same - whether 20 weeks or 40 weeks. Our hearts break... I will pray for a healing of your heart.

[Hans021220]

@SuperKimala PLEASE DO NOT BLAME YOURSELF!YOU WERE IN A VERY SPECIAL SITUATION WHERE YU REALLY DID NOT HAVE ANY OTHER CHOICE.I AM PRAYING FOR YOU!GOD BLESS YOU!

[Hans021220]

@SuperKimala Don`t blamr yourself,please!I am against free abortion myself,but in your case it was not free.You did not have any other choice,and you did the right thing.In your case,I would have done the same.I am sorry for your loss,and allow yourself too grief,even you did not meet your baby.You did loosea child!I pray to Jesus for you,that He will help you throu this difficult time.

[mapsandviolins1]

@SuperKimala

Your doctor told you that giving birth to a baby with anencephaly could kill you? That seems ridiculous, and really quite sad. I hope you can find healing.

Abortion needn't be pushed in cases like this. Wouldn't it be healthier for families to have those few moments with their sick babies, even if the child will die? If death is going to come anyway, why bring it sooner? Why not have the closure of holding the little one first...

[SuperKimala]

@mapsandviolins1

Thank you.My heart will always have this hole in it from what i had to go through and experience Not a day goes by that i dont think about my angel and ALL the things i could and should have done differently I try not to beat myself up about it..but its just really hard...it will be 2 years Dec 3rd..and it still feels like i just went through the horrible process yesterday...Thank you for all your concerns...It really does mean a lot!!

[mapsandviolins1]

@SuperKimala

You can heal, and forgiveness is always given by Jesus. I hope you find that healing!

[BenM6521]

Forever sorry for your loss

[ellieandlitla]

I am forever in awe of parents that knowingly accept a "less than standard" child into their arms and see the through until the end. This family is blessed, as is their beautiful son.

[ladybug19791]

no matter the dissability every human deserves the right to live till they take their last breath on their own. just because they are different don't make them any less of a human. They are different because they are special

[drnana13167]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful son and family with the world so that we could all see the little angel that God gave to you. Someday you will see him in Heaven.

[ellieandlitla]

You and your beautiful Son are amazing!

[anjomi1986]

Happy belated birthday beautiful little Austin! Rest in heaven sweet boy!

[lehcar716]

btw i know that i am related to you because my mom told me

[lehcar716]

I am sorry! Last time i saw this video it had like 100 views and now look at it. Hey I loved how you included him in the christmas picture that one year. (i am related to you some way no clue how but i am and my grandma got the picture and i saw it) thats so sweet of you

[aprilswenby]

Who are you?

[lehcar716]

I sent you a message on your account cause I didn't want to say on youtube

[pennykaldor]

What a beautiful tribute to your son's life. I bawled all the way through.

[brittanyismebb]

OMG People are such jerks. i am glad you had your baby and got to hold and cherish him for 11 minutes. Such a short time. I am so sorry. This was a beautiful video. Very well done, Loved the sone and you got some precious pictures. His hands and feet were so perfect! Did NILMDTS do them for you?

[EllawoodBlues]

So heartbreaking. If the song had been "Angel" by Sarah McLauchlan I'd be bawling.

[Melinda7386]

Thank you for this video. It made me cry a bit, though. :( He was a beautiful boy.

[m27diamonds]

He was a beautiful child. Thanks for giving him life while he was able to have it. I know God is thrilled to have him home so soon.

[nielsec0927]

as one mother to another, thank you for sharing your sons story.

[99lennon]

ritagrrl your cool well done some people r just crazy........ RIP lil angel

[CassandraBoyle]

canaanav.....You are ignorant and have no idea. If you were carrying a child and found out that there was something wrong, wouldn't you want your child to die in the most peaceful way possible and not by a suction. Have a heart and think before you write. I applaud you aprilswenby for making the decision that you did. I would have done exactly the same thing. Austin was a remarkable little boy and don't let anyone tell u otherwise. xxxxxx

[Ritagrrl]

Agree with you 100% Cassandra! Only mothers who truly love their children can understand the emotions behind this video. Unfortunately, when you cross free speech and YouTube you bring out all these idiots who think they have all the answers and don't care what pain their words might inflict! Austin was so sweet and his parents are my heros for making the decision they did. The pictures with his sisters were so beautiful!

[dempsey771]

Your son was beautiful, as was this vidieo. I am only sorry that some people are hard hearted and rude enough to post negative comments. I will be praying for your family.

[gmmaddox2000]

As the mother of a precious baby who had anencephaly -Michael Skye Harris April 17, 1972-April 17,1972 9 hrs.old-thank you for sharing this precious time you had with Austin with me. I didn't know Michael Skye had any problems until the moment of his birt. I was refused the right to see him, and never got to comfort him, to feel him, to smell him-none of the things that Mother's and Father's hold so dear. Your video has helped me to feel a connection to Michael in a very special way Thank you

[lilmummykc]

swenby family,

your video has touched my heart. A dear friend of mine also had a baby born with anencephaly, she was named angel and she was still born. Her mother holly and i where pregnant at the same time and to see her going through that while I had a healthy baby inside me was unbearable. Thank you for sharing your story. god bless

[aprilswenby]

Dear Dejected Panda....

I gave birth to my son, because I loved him. I wanted to hold him when he died - I didn't want him to die from getting his arms and legs ripped off from suction.... Did you know that at 20 weeks, most anencepahlic infants are born "not whole" They come out in two pieces because their heads are so fragile. That isn't what I wanted for my child.... I gave him all I could give - Really isn't about religion.....

[Ritagrrl]

Yes, dejectedpanda, and we'll just assume that the development of rude persons like yourself who feel the need to leave stupid comments on a beautiful video of someone's deceased child is a FREAK of nature, nothing more! Agreed, idiot?

[lilmissmint21]

I wish your future well, I empathize for your loss, it couldnt of been easy but that child was apart of you and your family. Im not a christian my self, but may god watch over you. xoxoxo peace love and moonbeams :-) stay strong.

[ElanaVital83]

It never ceases to amaze me how idiotic some people are when they sit down at their computer and comment. They think that because it's the internet they can say whatever. Cowards wouldn't say this nonsense to a woman whose child was diagnosed with this condition. Empty words on a computer screen, that's all.

My heart goes out to the families that have had to endure this tragedy. I don't call myself a Christian but I will say bless you all.

[canaanav]

Thankyou necromancybeast. This video is a sick misconception with reality. This video is the most selfish, dogmatic thing I have ever seen. This is promotion of their own religious zeal at the expense of a suffering child. Ghastly.

[Ritagrrl]

Another rude stupid comment. These parents lost their precious baby and you gotta be an ass about it! Why don't you take your ignorant comments somewhere else loser!

[aprilswenby]

Actually I found out at 20 weeks gestation.... Not early on in the pregnancy - 20 weeks is about when MOST are determined.... You pro-choicers are all about choice - but it's more a choice to abort - and you're so critical about our choice to keep.... I am choosing NOT to live in a "throw away society" where other people determine the value of other peoples children.... Please do not post on my site anymore!

[Ritagrrl]

RUDE, RUDE, RUDE!! You need to grow up little girl!!

[thatgirlkelly1]

Actually, due to the baby only having 3/4 of the brain, babies who are born with anencephaly do not feel any pain. It has been proven by doctors.

I am pro-choice. I believe a woman has the right to choose. This was HER choice. HERS. Not yours. So keep your mouth shut and leave her reproductive rights alone you hypocrite.

[Gringanica]

Dear Sweet family...

I do not know you and you don't know me... but my heart goes out to you. The hope is in the resurrection when he will be whole and healed. God speed that day!! Your strength on the road of bittersweet is inspiring to all of us "out here" in internet land. Bless you, dears!

[sonofmog]

sweet god bless your sweet family!!

[Joyous56]

Your story is beautiful. Every child should be loved, and Austin was. A healthy baby is a miracle, and those that aren't should be cherished just as much, just as you have cherished Austin.

It makes me appreciate the fact that I had a healthy child.

God bless you, that you and your family loved Austin during his short life.

[Sklurch]

This is a wonderful video about cosmicism, thank you!

[mylovesofmylife]

A heartbeat that creates a very fragile life that appears to us oblivious to there surroundings actually holds a strong and wise giving soul, a new lifes appearance or inability to communicate, does not stop a life from fullfilling a destiny, an important message that others must try to seek out from there experience of becoming part of the story of knowing a life that was brief

[kailynjacob]

Agreed!

[mylovesofmylife]

theres nothing more precious knowing you brought a precious child to life, who can wiggle around in your womb and be cuddled by you at the end of the 9 month journey, despite the childs differences from everyday newborns and despite the short time you are given with your child it can make your heart long for them no matter how differenta and fragile they were from other babies.

[ILIKESFLAN]

so sad :(

my father died of this condition

[DJEclipseNiagara]

ILIKESFLAN, you would never have been born if you father had this condition, because he probably would have died at birth, or even in the womb.

[d28player]

Well, for your callous comment Pitbullgirl.. YOU obviously don't have a brain! Are you human???

[lilbonnie06]

GOD is what make us human!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[pitbullgirl65]

So many of the people here would love to make abortion illegal I'd wager. All the God bless you! comments gives it away.

They don't have a brain. That is what makes us human.

[citlalykk]

Hi my name is karen, my baby was diagnosed with anacephaly at 20 weeks im now 26 weeks and theirs no day i regret feeling my little girl move inside my womb its a hard thing to go thru,but i woulnt change these moments for anything,THANK YOU PRENATAL PARTNERS for being their for those who need you in such a hard moment of life,GOD BLESS EVERYONE!

[kailynjacob]

Good for you! My sister gave birth to my nephew Jan 28th. He was diagnosed with this condition. He is 3 months old now. Yes, he has not brain, but he looks like a normal little boy and thats how we treat him. No one will ever understand what we are going through unless they go throuh it themselves. I feel so bleesed to have him in our lives. I know God can take him at any given time, and we are at peace with that. We just keep on loving him! God Bless you!

[aprilswenby]

I'd like to hear more about your nephew...Can you e-mail me?

[aprilswenby]

Actually - you are correct necromancybeast..... But please note the word MOST anencephalic infants.... The longest living anencephalic baby I know of lived 18 months. Anencephalic infants can live outside the womb for a short time period - however it is unknown because MOST are aborted. The statistics on living infants can only be done on those that give birth, which is such a small percentage....

[kailynjacob]

I can assure you it is not a blatant lie. My nephew has hydroanacephaly. I have been doing a lot of research on all of these conditions since his birth, so I apologize for the mistake. I have never heard of this until he was born, but I wanted to share his story. I know the statistics. My nephew is going on nine months now and he has good and bad days, but we love him and thats all that matters. Until anyone walks in our shoes they will never know. He, to us is not a statistic. He is Aiden.

[ba1n5yUK]

moving tribute. touched my heart x

[petalovespongy]

such a beautiful song and video... rest in peace xox

[Nantytam]

What a beautiful tribute to your precious little one. How brave of you to carry this little soul for 9 months, then give him back to God to take care of. He knows your love, and God's love; and he is waiting for you to join him someday. Bless you and your family.

[ninja021985]

This was really beautiful, it made my cry. I gave birth to a little girl with Anencephaly when I was 19 years old. I´m 24 now but I still think of her every day. Beautiful photo´s of your little boy.

Nina from The Netherlands

[MLMaddox]

Thats love they gave that baby a chance.

[OpheliaImmortal]

That baby never had a chance. It didn't have a brain.

[kailynjacob]

My nephew is 3 months old with this condition. He has a beating heart and he breathes on his own! Just because there is no brain doesnt mean that there is no chance! I know that his time with us is numbered but thats in Gods hands! But we are so blessed to have whatever time we have with him!

[OpheliaImmortal]

And that's fine, I'm glad that it is bringing comfort to you. Beating hearts and breathing are automatic reactions from the nervous and respiritory systems. What worries me is when people think the child will improve past this state and somehow become normal, because it doesn't happen, and people can become extremely hurt and lose their sanity somewhat when it never comes to be. I just hate the idea that some people delude themselves that everything is going to turn out perfectly normal. :(

[kailynjacob]

We know that he is not gonna be what most consider "normal". And we are at peace with that. I totally agree with you. I know that he will never run with my 3 year old son or be mothered by my 5 year old daughter. It hurts dont get me wrong, but Im not just not gonna love him. We do see the whole picture and we know that he wont be here with us forever. We have such a huge family and friend support system and I think that is what helps keep us sane. Thank you for commenting back.

[meme9878]

do you not have a heart in your chest to talk to someone like that. I am a mother carrying a baby with this condition!!! We know what the inevitable is!!!! We just want to enjoy what time the Lord has given us with our little Angels......How dare you be so cruel!!!!

[meme9878]

You really need Jesus in your life!!!! You are heartless!!!!!

[OpheliaImmortal]

Hey I think you need more exclamation marks it would probably get your point across better

[theculoop86]

I was amazed and taken back when I saw your video. Knowing all the risks you still decided to go on. What a beautiful thing your family has done, to not destroy life but give life and also warm your hearts with Austin. Thank you for posting this and sharing a little piece of his life with all of us too.

[kirstiedale3]

thankyou for sharing you little boy with the world

[tubbydhevz]

all of you have been so blessed giving birth with this angel, i'll just pray for his soul... i'm touched with your tribute, not all families have a heart like this family has... i'm a student nurse i haven't experience assisting a delivery like this case yet but you have my empathy... GOD BLESS THIS FAMILY.

[nvrufus]

What a beautiful song and tribute to this priceless angel. He may only have lived 11 minutes but those 11 minutes must have been filled with love for him.  You can see it in the faces of his family. God bless you all!

[mom2nji]

I am so sorry for your loss. I lost a little boy to the same thing just shy of 5 months pregnant. We did not know he had anencephaly until my water broke out of the blue. You were so strong and brave to carry him.

[PointePrincess2000]

Never have I ever seen a child with a more perfect heart shaped face. He truly is a beautiful miracle. I know your entire family will cherish those precious 11 minutes he graced the world with his presence. Just remember, he will be at Heaven's gates to meet you one day. God bless.

[LikaLaruku]

It's sad & scary how many babies are born & die of Anencephaly. It's hard to say if it's a crueler joke on the baby or the mom. The only fortunate thing for the baby is that it was deaf, blind, completely oblivious, & most importantly, unable to feel pain. But the mother gains & permenently looses something presious in a short period of time that will stick with her the rest of her life.

[dupontk71]

Beautiful video of beautiful photos-a touching memorial. Song was very good, and so personal and spiritual, just lovely. My sympathy to the family.

[sassielassie216]

I don't know what Anencephaly is either but those 11 minutes on Earth will last a life time in your hearts. What a beautiful tribute for such a beautiful and lucky baby. Knowing how much he was loved then and still is loved and knowing he's in Heaven watching over his whole family. My heart is with all of you and I'm so sorry that he was taken away too soon. Also you have a very beautiful family.

[Mom2Lisette]

I'm not really sure what Anencephaly is. But I am so very deeply sorry for your loss and I am also glad that God gave you what time he did. God Bless

[MrNobody47710]

I can explain what it is, although you have probably looked it up in the past two months. It's a disorder that is characterized by the lack of a neo-cortex and a partially closed skull. Babies with it only have a brain stem, which consists of the lower and mid-brains. Without the cortex, they have no consciousness, no perception, no feelings, no pain, no joy, no thoughts, no dreams, etc. They have no existence beyond physically being there, and they can only engage in automatic processes.

[suicideclub]

QQ lulz

[h6489]

All your children are beautiful.

[MaryTeri]

You were so very special to have him for a few minutes. This video is excellent. I lost an ancephaly child in 1980 and have learned to go on an live with it always...you never get over it. It always is a part of you. What a special tribute. Thanks so much. Teri

[Brittnie55]

your son was absolutely beautiful :)

[EraBooBoo]

What wonderful parents you are...you were the best gift that child could be given. We lost our daughter on July 17, 2008 and were told to "start pitosin and get it over with" as I was fully dilated at 20 weeks. No way were we going to give in... she was born 4 days later and lived for 20 minutes. God bless you, what a beautiful family you have! He is watching over you in Heaven! :)

[weblicious]

my deepest condolences to you guys.

[dryflowersagain]

My sister also made the same choice.

[BrickRoux]

It takes such strength to do God's will and respect life the way you did. What lovely parents you are. You will hold your son again, one day.

[Milliemoosmummy]

God bless darling angel.x

[bratfink74]

A beautiful story from beginning to end. Thank you for sharing your baby's life with us.

[jasselin92]

i thought they were born without a skull and like all glazed all over ther body whys this baby look so healthy

[aprilswenby]

What a sad misconception! His body was completely "normal", healthy and thriving. His brain was just not able to keep up with his body's needs without me (his mom).

[Johansk182]

I study medicine and i know what it is. I really don't share opinion with the parents but I really respect them for what they did. Anencephally is letal and parents must be very strong. What I recommend is to eat FOLIC ACID before the day 20 of pregnancy. IT IS REALLY IMPORTANT TO AVOID THIS TYPE OF THING. bless

[seva108]

too many people on this earth. Its true.  vasectomy

[theamster]

I was just doing some research as my cousin had a child with anencephaly who of course did not make it either. Very touching video and I am glad you got to meet your angel and atleast hold him and love him. beautiful.

[weblicious]

you guys are such strong parents. i admire you for that.

[hekatelacroix]

i watched the video and was so moved. i started crying uncontrollably. thats so sad that the baby died in your arms. a sweet innocent little baby. oh god.

[WeirdGirlCyndi]

What a precious little angel...

[abesmomma]

I found your video through Karen's website and was blown away by your video and song. Your Austin is a sweet boy who was very obviously loved by his family. I lost my son at 1 month old, but under different circumstances. I know the heartache. But I know the peace HE gives as well. I was wondering about the song - did your hubby write it? If not where can I find it?? I cried all the way through it thinking of my son.

God Bless-

Erinn from MD

[ROBINRUSH24]

I too recently attened a conference with Karen Kingsbury and she referenced your beautiful video. Thank you for sharing Austin's beautiful life. May God bless you and your extraordinary family. God Bless

[tiffanybosko]

Beautiful video and song to honor the life and memory of your precious baby boy.

[berlymom1]

Beautiful video! Did your husband compose and sing the song? Absolutely lovely! What a wonderful tribute!

[liroper]

I just attended a women's conference that Karen Kingsbury spoke at. She told us about your video. It is a very touching story. I am an OB nurse and I am so glad you chose to give Austin life. May God continue to provide healing to your family. May you find some comfort in the fact that you will see Austin again.

[harleyrodriguez]

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am sorry to ask, but what happened to your baby? I am not sure why he didn't live or the condition? Thanks for sharing...I had complications w/ both my children.....

[harleyrodriguez]

sorry...i read more and answered my own question. God Bless your family

[starbuckslovingmommy]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful moment with everyone. It was very touching, you are very special people. God Bless you and your family. When I see your video it makes me think of Karen Kingsbury Book "Summer" it has a beautiful story of an a anencephalic baby.

[aprilswenby]

Hello starbuckslovingmommy: Karen actually by chance, saw this video and sent me a copy of her book. I read it and could relate very much. I thought she did an excellent job portraying a characters journey, especially given the fact that she has never lived the journey. Karen actually now references Austin in her speaches! Thank you for your comment.

[Ladybugs999]

Thank you for sharing his life's story with us. I'm so sorry about your loss. I believe wholeheartedly that you made the right choice in choosing life, as God certainly had a purpose in creating Austin, and choosing life honors Austin's life, as well as God's purpose for us. I'm thankful that your family was able to spend some precious moments with him.

Were some of the photos done by NILMDTS (Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep)? They are beautiful. Thanks again for sharing... God Bless.

[aprilswenby]

All of the black and white photos were done by our local photographer - Shots of Thoughts Photography. She is not affiliated with the NILMDTS program. I think she did a fantastic job too!

[twyla3]

That is a sad story. I wish that he would of lived:(

[mizgeministarz]

Beautiful video, beautiful baby. Thank you for sharing your son's life with us.

[anndoodle]

This was simply, so beautiful. I work as a labor & delivery nurse, and I'm so thankful that you had this special time with your child. You have a very wonderous little guardian angel watching over you now. My eyes are full of tears at your loss, but my heart is full of joy at your blessing.

[PINKEE38]

how dare anybody suggest abortion.all life is precious.and baby austin was sent to you for a reason.he had as much of a chance to live as anybody else what makes him less worthy?precious angel may he rest in the arms of jesus.thank you for sharing your story it was beautiful.

[applejaxs88]

the decision to carry or not to carry any baby to term is a personal one. For you this is the right decision, no one has the right to take the dignity of his birth away from you.Blessed be.

[aprilswenby]

The goal of carrying my baby to term was not to promote abortion or to make it illegal. When your baby is diagnosed with a fatal condition, or even life threatening, there is no easy decision or way out. Abortion would not have made it easier. No matter how old he was, he was still my child! I am disheartened that you felt the need to comment in such a hideous way! You have too much time on your hands - get a job an learn how to spell anencephalic if you're going to comment on it!

[wiersma98]

Spoken like someone truly clueless about LIFE. Yes, abortion may have been easier on this family. And, apparently, you're the type of person who likes to take the easy way out. Austin's parents made the incredibly difficult decision to let their little boy live as long as he was able, and to let him pass away peacefully in the loving arms of his parents. It's not about RELIGION--it's about loving your child unconditionally & celebrating his life, no matter how short.

[lumpwump]

tell me if that baby were to be aborted the parents would have never gotten to see it and dyeing slowly but peacefully is better than the violent process of abortion

[TemporaryCaffeine]

So, you'd wanna see your baby die slowly?

[aprilswenby]

How he dies was really not up to me....If I had a choice, I'd rather not see him die at all...

[mizgeministarz]

Shame on you goodsnservices. They could say goodbye THIS way or the other way. Either way they had to say goodbye. Who are YOU to pass judgement?

[trainman707]

What a sad person you must be.

[jozog7]

Thank you for sharing. Our daughter Mary has been diagnosed with anencephaly. We are both scared and sad, but your video gives us hope that will will at least have a few moments. And that we will then have an angel praying for our family. God Bless you and your family.

[9fish2cats1dog]

i had twin boys june 07 and one had anencephaly. your video is lovely and reminded me so much of my lovely son neaven xx thank you for posting xx tc xx

[anm30]

God bless you and your family! My name is April also and I have a son named Austin as well! What a beautiful family you have! Your baby Austin is watching over you always and one day you will have eternity with him! That's God's promise to us! Thank you for sharing your family with the world~ May God bless you always~

[Younger212]

I agree with the two other comments. Thank you for sharing your story and son with us. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. GOD BLESS

[dorear]

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful son with us!

[Momoftwinsplus1]

What a beauitful song and video. God Bless your little angel Austin. My nephew was also anencephalic, he died shortly before his birth in June 2005. I found your video from the ane. yahoo group. Thank you so much for sharing your son with us.

[Momoftwinsplus1]

Oops sorry typo my nephew was born in June 2004 not 2005, had to correct that. Just can't type today. Again, I really appreciate this video and am grateful I saw it today