In 2019 we were joyfully expecting to add another member to our family. A baby girl, Magnolia (Nola), was due in early summer and Grace, our oldest daughter, was ready for big sister duty. Shortly after a family trip to New Orleans (Nola’s namesake) filled with amazing food, music, and people, the unthinkable happened. At 36 weeks pregnant, Xana went in for an ultrasound after not feeling quite right and we learned the devastating news that Nola’s heart was no longer beating.

After a gut wrenching, heartbreaking, and whirlwind hospital stay that ended with empty arms, we realized that our journey and Nola’s story was just beginning.

What comforted us the most in those early days of grieving, and still now, was talking about Magnolia. She was a real person who we held in our arms, into whose ears we said goodbye. She was also the hoped-for baby who went on a beautiful trip to New Orleans with us, the sweet second daughter who listened to her dad play guitar, to her sister read books, and to her mom sing lullabies. Nola’s legacy would live on.

Inspired by a series of kindnesses, including a handmade quilt from another family who had experienced stillbirth and a thoughtful care package from a friend, and by Matt Smith, of Wandering Soul Beer Co., who started his company as a dedication to the memory of his daughter Melody, our family decided to start this organization. We hope you will join us in carrying on Nola’s legacy.