TRIGGER WARNING: This post contains information about stillbirth and infant loss, which may be triggering to some.
Losing a family member is always difficult, but the heartache that comes with losing a child is unfathomable. It is something that no parent should ever have to go through. Social media influencers and celebrities who live through this nightmare often have the added pressure of being expected to share intimate details of their lives because followers feel entitled to get as much information as possible, even in tragic moments like these.
YouTuber Brittani Boren Leach unexpectedly lost her 3-month-old son, Crew, during the holidays back in 2019. The baby was found unresponsive in his crib during a nap. The family rushed him to the hospital, but sadly, he could not be resuscitated. Now — three years later — Leach is reflecting on the difficult day that changed her life.
The mother of six sons and a daughter shares her family with the world on social media.
We have all become fans of families and influencers on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Because we follow them religiously, we often feel like we know these people intimately.
Leach's family is familiar to many. She has amassed more than 1 million followers across various social media platforms, and so many have followed her through the loss of Crew, the birth of rainbow baby Cole, and the rest of the family's adventures. Many mourned the loss of baby Crew, and Leach recently opened up about that day.
Crew became unresponsive during a nap on Christmas Day.
In 2019, Leach shared a series of Instagram posts chronicling Crew's final hours. He was rushed to the hospital on Christmas Day and was put on a ventilator. The machine kept him alive and breathing for several days, but ultimately he was unable to be revived and died on December 30.
People reported that the family opted to donate his organs, and Leach wrote in her Instagram Stories, "One of my goals for 2023 is to hopefully meet the little one who received Crew's heart," the mom of six posted. "I think I'm ready."
Crew is still an essential part of the family's life.
Leach often writes about Crew and how much she and the rest of the family miss him. Holidays are tough. Last week, she shared an Instagram pic of Crew's first and last holiday season, showing the sweet baby smiling next to a collection of wrapped presents.
The caption reads, "When the sun sets and the chaos of the day disappears, that's when I miss you the most. I imagine you celebrating Jesus' birthday in the most beautiful way, looking down at us with your sweet little grin. And as the day comes to an end, I know we are just one more Christmas closer to you. Merry Christmas in Heaven sweet boy, I love you Crew. ❤️-Mama"
Her pain is palpable, yet her resilience is strong. Followers shared their love with Leach and her family.
An Instagrammer wrote, "I've thought about you all day!! Merry Christmas to your family and to Crew in Heaven. I see so much of Crew in Cam when you post him. Big hugs!"
"Thinking of you especially during this time of year. You are so strong and help so, so many people. We ❤️ you! Merry Christmas in Heaven Baby Crew. ," another follower posted.
Leach still celebrates Crew on his birthday and holidays.
Crew would have turned 3 in September. Leach never misses an opportunity to share her love for Crew and to recognize those who have loved and supported their family for the past three years.
"If Crew's life has touched yours in any way, I would love it if we could bring a little kindness to the world today in honor of him. You never know how his life could impact someone else's day. Happy 3rd birthday Crew, we love you," she posted.
Leach's family continues to grow.
Leach and her husband welcomed their son, Cole, in November 2020, 10 months after Crew's death. Son Cam came along in September 2022. Leach posted on Instagram that 2022 was a great year for her family.
"2022… where do I begin? Year of the baby having, bread making, trip taking, house selling, car stealing… It was an interesting year to say the least. #readyfor2023,” she wrote.
Followers continue to support Leach, thanking her for sharing her life online.
"So much love to you & your family. You are a tribe that inspires so many. We've seen you face & overcome some situations we can't ever imagine, but it never changes your spirit. You deserve every blessing that comes your way. " someone commented.
"Love following you and seeing your beautiful family!! Whether you know it or not you really do give people hope when you smile you make people happy.. you truly are an outstanding mama and wife. I wish you and your family nothing but love happiness and blessings in 2023❤️❤️," another person wrote.
