Father sings ‘Blackbird’ to dying son after wife dies after childbirth

It was hard enough for Chris Picco to lose his wife after childbirth, but then his infant son died days later in his arms.

In a loving tribute video that has now gone viral, Picco strums his guitar and sings the Beatles’ “Blackbird” to his infant son, who was incubated at Loma Linda University Medical Center after he was born earlier than expected.

“He was dressed in an outfit that Ashley bought for him, with little guitars on it, and wrapped in a blanket made by a dear friend,” Picco wrote in letter posted on the family’s donation page.

“I am so thankful for the four unforgettable days I got to spend with him.”

Chris Picco’s wife, Ashley, died Saturday in her sleep after doctors performed an emergency Caesarean section and delivered Lennon.

Doctors remained concerned about Lennon’s brain activity and lack of movement.

Picco asked the nurses if he could play songs for his son, who had seemed to respond to music when he was in the womb.

For several days, he played songs for Lennon.

On Tuesday after he finished filming the moment, Picco held Lennon in his arms as the infant died.

“I have been so blessed and honored to love him before he was formed, to cherish him while mommy carried him, meet him face to precious face, and hold his perfect little body while we said ‘goodbye for now,’” he wrote.

To donate to the Picco family, visit their memorial page.

For breaking news throughout California, follow @VeronicaRochaLA. She can be reached at veronica.rocha@latimes.com.