Charles and I welcomed Alexandra Jude Abdelahad into the world on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at 1:06pm. It was the most amazing moment of our lives. Also at 1:06pm, AJ was received into to the Kingdom of Heaven, as she was stillborn. (In conversations with our medical team throughout the pregnancy, we knew there was a possibility of a stillborn birth, as the birthing process is very stressful for all babies, but especially for Trisomy 18 babies that have heart and breathing issues.) We were surrounded by our immediate families; showered in love and support the entire time. Our parish Priest was with us all day as well, and graciously prayed the Trisagion Prayers for our baby girl shortly after her birth.
We cannot thank our care providers enough for the absolutely wonderful, attentive, specialized, dedicated service they all showed us while we were in the hospital. All of our nurses were familiar with our situation before they walked in the door of our room. The Women’s Health Specialist had prepared (almost) everyone in the hospital (it seemed). Our POB is just the best. Everyone was extremely sensitive to our situation, offering us whatever we wanted. But, we just wanted everything to be treated as normal, and it was.
As all of the mommas out there know, childbirth is physiologically NOT a “walk in the park”. However, it is the most unbelievably amazing experience that I have ever been blessed to endure. And I would gladly/happily/humbly/fortunately do it again. Someday. Besides my wedding day, I can honestly say that I was living in the moment from the minute we stepped into the hospital to begin the birth process. It was too special not to cherish and preserve every single minute.
There is plenty more to come in the life of this blog, so I hope you will all keep reading. I would like to share our birth story, as well as the details of the beautiful day of AJ’s funeral and burial. There are too many people to thank by name at this time, so we would like to extend an enormous THANK YOU to every single one of you reading this blog– to you who have helped us (in ways you may not even know) along our journey. Most importantly, we must thank our families, for which we cannot adequately do with words. They have been there for us in whatever we have needed every step of the way, and will continue to be there for us as we mourn the loss of, and celebrate, our beautiful daughter.
“But Jesus said, ‘Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.'” – Matthew 19:14
Memory Eternal, beautiful angel!
Our Angel AJ 
Brittany & Charles – Pete and I have been thinking of and praying for your family this entire time, especially so last week. Thank you so much for continuing to share your story, even though this is most definitely not an easy story to share. The grace and faith that you have shown throughout is truly an example to embrace and follow. Memory Eternal to your sweet angel, AJ!
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Memory Eternal to your angel, AJ! Sending lots and love and prayers your way.
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Brit and Charles be blessed. Brit I have to say again how I truly admire your strength, faith and bravery throughout this experience. Sending lots of love to you and your family!
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We all should learn something from you and Charles. Thanks you for sharing, all of this. We were truly blessed to be with you. We love you 3 !
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Praying for you and Charles! You guys were in my thoughts last week, knowing the delivery was coming, and will continue to be as you celebrate your angel. You are so amazing and so strong, Britt. Sending love your way!
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So many prayers for your family since I first started reading your blog. Much Love from South Carolina.
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Prayers of love, support, and comfort we send your way! You and your family are in our thoughts and hearts. Thank you for sharing your words and journey. Your strength, love, and bravery are amazing.
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Sending our love from Portland, OR. We’ve been thinking of you all and will continue to do so. You’re an amazing mother.
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So many prayers for you! God bless you!
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Brittany and Charles: I am so saddened by this news. I have been reading your posts but have been at a loss for words. I truly believe that God only deals us the hands He knows we will be strong enough to handle, and He knew that your faith was strong enough. Although she will not be here to enjoy the good things life on this earth has to offer, I hope you both take comfort in knowing that she will never have to endure the perils this world can offer. I am praying for you all. Memory eternal, AJ!
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My heart goes out to you and your families. Your long journey has been heartfelt by all of us who care so deeply for you. Thank you for having the courge and strenth to share your story with us.
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God blesses us with our family and friends to help us learn all about what love is all about. Your little AJ was a little angel sent from heaven to help strengthen your love and bless you with all the love you deserve. I know she will be waiting to be with you in heaven! May God continue blessing you always!
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Sending love and prayers to you and your family. So deeply sorry for your loss. AJ will not be forgotten. Looking forward to reading more of your insightful, well-written posts.
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I know there is nothing I can say that will fill the void you both are now enduring but as I read your blogs and read the wonderful comments from your friends and family I know your support network is very deep and that relieves my worried heart! Our thoughts, prayers and arms are around you! Take good care of eachother! And thank you for sharing your amazing story!
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You have been blessed with experiencing the miracle of birth. That miracle will be with you for eternity. May God continue to shower his blessings upon all of you.
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A picture speaks a thousand words; the one of her holding her cross is priceless. May God continue to wrap each of you with His love.
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Brit! Just got word yesterday from Kate. Angie, myself, and the girls will be praying for you an Charles. What a tough situation. Our hearts go out to you.
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I have been following your blog. Thank you for sharing the big game. You two are wonderful , incredible and strong. AJ has the best parents in the world. Sending hugs and prayers .
Family is the greatest thing in the world and with them you will continue to grow and remember I am always here if you want to talk , cry, scream or just have a cup of tea. Sending all my love.
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