Autumn and Zack Carver were thrilled to welcome their third child. Their joy turned to despair when both contracted COVID-19 during Autumn’s eighth month of pregnancy. Autumn was hospitalized and gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Huxley, but she remained in the ICU on life support.

Zack described the ordeal as “the worst day in [his] life.” Doctors doubted Autumn’s survival and suggested taking her off life support. Despite a zero percent chance of recovery, Zack refused. He prayed incessantly and rallied online prayer warriors, holding onto hope for a miracle.

Zack couldn’t imagine life without Autumn. Heartbroken that she hadn’t held Huxley, he requested the doctors bring her out of sedation for a moment with their son. They agreed, and Zack recalled, “I don’t know if there was a dry eye in the area. What an amazing day.”

Doctors initially considered a lung transplant, but a thoracic surgeon declared it unnecessary: “You don’t need a lung transplant. You’re going to be fine.” Slowly, Autumn improved and returned home in December 2021. Zack shared, “Such a happy, emotional, overwhelming day.” Autumn, grateful for life, advised, “Every day is a gift. Tell people you love them and give lots of hugs.” The Carvers’ experience reinforced their faith and appreciation for life.