Support For The Loss of Baby Girl, Etta Mae

On November 4th, 2024, our brother and sister-in-law, Matthew and Courtney, welcomed their firstborn daughter, Etta Mae Phillips-Manning. She was a perfectly healthy, vibrant, wide-eyed baby and her parent's greatest gift.

In the final weekend of 2024, Etta fell suddenly and mysteriously ill. Despite seeking immediate medical attention through multiple ER visits, midwives, a pediatrician, and loved ones, her symptoms remained misleadingly mild until a sudden cardiac arrest led to her hospitalization. Doctors worked tirelessly to find answers, but no clear cause emerged—only the devastating reality of how swiftly and unexplainably she declined.

Brain imaging revealed irreversible damage from the cardiac arrest, leaving no hope for a meaningful quality of life. Etta entered hospice care, and Courtney and Matthew faced the unimaginable—saying goodbye to their daughter. For over 40 days in the hospital, including four weeks in hospice, they stayed by her side, filling her final moments with love—holding her in the sun, reading to her, and surrounding her with warmth, music, and the embrace of family. On February 11th, 2025, Etta took her final breath.

Our hearts ache for this profound loss and for the hollowed home left behind. In support of Courtney and Matthew, we are raising funds to help cover medical expenses not covered by insurance, after-life arrangements, and resources for grief and healing, such as therapy.

Any contribution, big or small, is deeply appreciated. Additionally, if you'd like to support them further, a meal train link is available: https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/03z09z

Thank you for standing with us during this heartbreaking time.

And to close, a message from Etta's Mama and Papa:

"We will forever be etched by Etta. The love we shared with her, though brief, was immeasurable. She revealed to us, both in life and death, depths we didn't know our hearts contained. Somewhere deep down, we trust that we will get through this. We know that this will not be the end of our joy, our family, or our fervor for life, though it feels that way right now. And we thank you in advance for your patience, grace, and love as we navigate this loss, now and for the rest of our lives…we love you, Etta Mae. Every tomorrow is for you."