**Grieving Parents Pay Tribute to ‘Miracle’ Baby Harlow, Lost at Just Four Months Old**
A community has rallied around two parents left devastated after their baby daughter, described by loved ones as a “miracle”, tragically died at only four months of age following a series of serious health complications. Klaire Carroll, 37, and Cassidy O’Connell, 26, from Stroud, Gloucestershire, are coming to terms with the loss, while expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received during an unimaginably difficult time.
Baby Harlow Maeve Carroll-O’Connell was the result of years of dedication and sacrifice, as Klaire and Cassidy worked additional hours to afford IVF treatment. Their journey, however, took an unexpected turn when a routine scan at 20 weeks revealed a catalogue of health issues, including a congenital heart defect, a tethered spine, and a bowel problem. Faced with three heart-breaking options—termination, palliative care, or a series of surgeries—the couple chose to give Harlow every fighting chance through medical intervention.
Despite the best efforts of her medical team and multiple surgical procedures, Harlow’s fragile health could not be saved. After enduring open-heart surgery and other treatments, she sadly passed away in her mother’s arms. The definitive causes of her death remain unclear, with post-mortem results described as ‘unascertained,’ and the family expects to wait up to 18 months for a comprehensive report.
Throughout their ordeal, Klaire and Cassidy have highlighted how the kindness of friends, family, and even strangers has been a crucial source of comfort. A GoFundMe page started to help cover funeral expenses has reached an impressive £3,000 of its £3,500 target. The couple describe the collective compassion shown to them as “incredible,” expressing that it has allowed them to give Harlow “the send off [she] deserves.”
“We honestly can’t believe how much support we have received from everyone,” Cassidy explained, adding that the generosity and emotional solidarity from people near and far has given them strength. “No one deserves to lose a child, but the love we’re receiving is helping us to get through each day.”
Harlow’s early life was marked by repeated emergency trips to hospital owing to breathing difficulties, feeding issues, and blue episodes. Despite the severity of her symptoms, her parents recount a moment when doctors were unable to determine the cause of her ongoing infection and decided to discharge her. Calling on their experience, Klaire and Cassidy urged other parents to listen to their instincts and to keep advocating for their children when something feels wrong.
The ordeal reached its most harrowing point in May, when Harlow’s oxygen levels plummeted and she was diagnosed with endocarditis—a severe infection of the heart’s inner lining. Complications saw her tiny body wracked with blood clots and sepsis, leading to further surgery, which she did not survive. “She went into cardiac arrest and died in my arms,” said Klaire. “They did everything they could, but there was nothing more to be done.”
Despite everything, the parents are determined to cherish the brief but poignant memories they made. After her initial recovery, Harlow’s family managed to take her to the aquarium—a joyful outing that stands out in their minds. “Watching her look around, taking everything in, was so lovely. It’s one of our favourite memories,” Cassidy reflected.
Recounting their daughter’s character, Klaire described Harlow as “cheeky and happy,” with a remarkable will to fight, even in her short life. Those who met her, Klaire adds, will never forget her resilience and the brightness she exuded.
University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust has issued condolences to the family, with the trust’s chief medical officer Dr Rebecca Maxwell stating they “remain in close contact” to address ongoing concerns and to extend their support.
The couple have pledged that any funds remaining after Harlow’s funeral will be donated to The Grand Appeal and Heart Heroes, charities that supported them throughout this trying journey.
The outpouring of community support and the resilience shown by Klaire and Cassidy underline how even a brief life, lived with so much love and hope, can leave a profound and enduring impact.