The video of a grieving dad singing the Beatles’ song “Blackbird” for his dying baby went viral last week.
The dad in the video, Chris Picco, posted a heartbreaking update and a memo of thanks to those who showed support for him after his story was shared through the video of him singing to his dying baby boy.
“Dear friends, family, and supporters; it is with an unbelievably heavy heart that I write this. My little fighter, Lennon James Picco, went to sleep in his daddy's arms late last night. He was surrounded by family, friends, and the best doctors, nurses, and hospital staff in the world. He was dressed in an outfit that Ashley bought for him, with little guitars on it, and wrapped in a blanket made by a dear friend,” wrote Picco, according to the blog The Stir.
He continued, “I am so thankful for the four unforgettable days I got to spend with him. His mommy would have been so beyond joy to see him and to hold him, touch him, bathe him, sing to him -- as I have had the privilege of doing. I have been so blessed and honored to love him before he was formed, to cherish him while mommy carried him, meet him face to precious face, and hold his perfect little body while we said "goodbye for now". There are no words, but I wanted to keep you updated, as your love and support has meant more than anything in the world. All you need is love.”
Picco’s wife, Ashley, died this past week after she became ill while pregnant, according to the media outlet Post Crescent.com. Lennon was reportedly delivered prematurely.
The couple, married in 2007, reportedly met in New York when the two were volunteers helping firefighters after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
“I could never articulate how much your support and your strength, and your prayers, and your emails and your Facebook messages and your text messages ... I don't even know how any of you got my number but there's been a lot of 'thank you,’” stated Picco during a memorial service on Saturday.
He continued, “There have been so many people that have reached out and shared their pain: excruciating pain, tremendous loss. And my heart just goes out.”
