The Birth of Francesca Isabella

This past week, an opportunity was given to photograph the birth of Francesca Isabella, via surrogate.

This particular birth story is special, something incredibly unique. Dayna was selfless enough to give 9 very long months of her life to do something amazing for Joey and Jon. She gave them the opportunity to be parents by being their surrogate.

I’ve known Dayna for some time, she was one of my teammates at the York City Derby Dames. Dayna has always been a very kind and loving person.When she told the team her plans of surrogacy, not of us were shocked. It was just the kind of thing Dayna would do for someone!

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Jon and Joey for long. But, just from the night I spent with them and Dayna, it was very apparent that these three shared a special connection. Dayna was not just helping them give these guys the child they always dreamed of. She gave them a friendship that will last a lifetime. Watching these guys interact, it seems like they’ve known each other forever.

Francesca was a little stubborn coming out. It seemed like she was rather warm and cozy where she was. She did not feel like going anywhere! Dayna was admitted to the hospital around 9am on December 1st. However, Francesca didn’t grace us with her presence until 3:39am on December 2nd. When Francesca did finally decide that she was ready to meet the world, boy did she come fast! While labor may have lasted longer than anticipated, the birth took less than a minute!

To be able to see and photograph the first time Jon and Joey saw their beautiful baby girl was something truly unforgettable. It was a truly unique and humbling experience. I wish these guys a lifetime of health and happiness with their new family.

*Update: Dayna is currently carrying Jon and Joey’s 2nd child, a boy! She is due in April and we will be there again to photograph the amazing experience.