What began as a joyful first pregnancy became a heartbreaking journey that forever changed Alyssa Youn and her husband, Justin.

Because of medical conditions including cerebral palsy and type 2 diabetes, Alyssa’s pregnancy was considered high-risk. Still, everything seemed to be going well. At her 19-week ultrasound, baby Scarlett appeared healthy and was growing beautifully, leaving her parents excited to finally meet their little girl.

Alyssa and Justin had been together since they were teenagers and had always dreamed of building a life and family together. Learning they were expecting their first child filled them with overwhelming happiness.

💙 But everything changed one afternoon in September.

During a routine appointment, Alyssa began experiencing unusual pain and extreme exhaustion. At first, she believed it was simply part of pregnancy, but the discomfort gradually became severe abdominal and pelvic pain.

The following day, when she noticed light bleeding, the couple rushed to the emergency room. After an examination, they were reᴀssured and sent home. Although relieved, Alyssa couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t right.

The next day, they returned to the hospital. After further evaluation, doctors delivered devastating news.

Alyssa had cervical insufficiency (also called an incompetent cervix), a condition that affects about one in every 100 pregnancies. Her cervix was opening far too early, causing her body to go into premature labor.

Although doctors considered placing a sтιтch to keep the cervix closed, they determined the procedure would not safely stop the labor. Despite medications intended to slow the process, her cervix continued to dilate while baby Scarlett remained healthy inside the womb.

💔 Alyssa recalled the overwhelming guilt she felt.

“I felt like I had failed my husband and our daughter. All I could say was, ‘I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.’ We cried, we prayed, and we called our family and close friends to come to the hospital. We were surrounded by so much love that day.”
At just 20 weeks and 5 days, Scarlett was born far too early to survive. Knowing they would likely have only moments with their daughter, Alyssa and Justin invited their loved ones into the delivery room to welcome her into the world—and prepare to say goodbye.

👼 Scarlett spent just two precious hours in her parents’ arms.

“As I held her in my arms, she struggled to breathe. I told her I was sorry and that I loved her. I told her it was okay to rest. Watching your baby pᴀss away and knowing there’s nothing you can do to save her is a heartbreaking feeling. You feel powerless.”
During those two hours, Scarlett was surrounded by the love of her parents, grandparents, family, and close friends. Every cuddle, every tear, and every whispered “I love you” became a treasured memory. Her grandmother lovingly captured those precious moments in pH๏τographs that her family continues to cherish.

💗 Although Scarlett’s life was incredibly brief, her legacy continues to inspire others.

Determined to honor her daughter, Alyssa has dedicated herself to raising awareness about pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and cervical insufficiency. By sharing Scarlett’s story, she hopes more families will recognize the warning signs, seek timely care, and know they are never alone in their grief.

Scarlett spent only two hours in her parents’ arms, but she filled their hearts with a lifetime of love. ❤️