Posted by Michael Wonder on 12 Mar 2017
The tragedy of Aviana
12 March 2017 - It’s the stuff of every parent’s nightmare: a rare genetic disorder means Bethan and Johnny’s perfect baby will be lucky to see her first birthday.
Bethan McElwee’s fingers cradle her baby’s feet. Her lips touch their soft soles as she blows gentle raspberries. Breathless staccato kisses for each toe.
Six-month-old Aviana gurgles as she gazes at her mother. Her father, Johnny, rests his hands on Bethan’s shoulders, protective. Guarded.
“Be careful,” Johnny says with a gentle urgency. “They said not to bend her too much.”
In an instant, the tender moment is wrenched into sharp focus.
