Laura and Mateo are a Colombian couple who found their home in Washington DC, and together they faced a long journey toward parenthood. Filled with hope and excitement, they prepared everything to welcome Daniel Sebastian, their long-awaited first child, whom they affectionately nicknamed “Baby Bear.”

They built their nest with love, counting the days and eagerly decorating every corner of his room, anticipating the joy of his arrival. However, at 35 weeks of gestation, life took a devastating turn when Daniel Sebastian stopped moving. The diagnosis was shocking for everyone: a torsion in the umbilical cord had stopped his little heart, an unexpected and deeply moving tragedy.

In the midst of this unimaginable loss, the support from Sibley Memorial / John Hopkins Hospital, along with the warmth of their family, friends, church, and professionals, provided Laura and Mateo with essential comfort. This deep empathy and excellence in bereavement care inspired them to transform their pain into a force for positive change.

They purpusely committed to bringing the knowledge and best practices in bereavement care services that were so beneficial to them to their native Colombia. This is how Baby Bear was born, conceived as a haven of hope and healing in honor of Daniel Sebastian. Since its inception, Baby Bear has evolved beyond just a foundation; it has become an extensive family dedicated to transforming suffering into love, enduring memories, and deep connections, ensuring that no one faces grief alone.

Today, Laura and Mateo remember Daniel Sebastian every day along with David and Simon, their rainbow babies. Daniel Sebastian will always remain in their hearts as part of the family.