Touching footage of a new father singing to his dying baby son has gone viral.
Chris Picco is heard softly singing The Beatles' song Blackbird to baby Lennon, who was born 16 weeks early.
Lennon’s mother Ashley sadly died in her sleep and her baby was delivered via an emergency Caesarean section.
Chris Picco sings to his baby boy Lennon
The video was uploaded to YouTube, hit Reddit and went viral.
A statement under the video reads: "Lennon's lack of movement and brain activity was a constant concern for the doctors and nurses at Loma Linda University Hospital, where he received the absolute best care available.
"During the pregnancy, Ashley would often feel Lennon moving to music so Chris asked if he could bring his guitar into the NICU and play for Lennon, which he did for several hours during the last days of Lennon's precious life."
On Wednesday it emerged baby Lennon had passed away in his father's arms, just a day after the heartbreaking video was filmed.
Friends released this message from Picco:
"Dear friends, family, and supporters; it is with an unbelievably heavy heart that I write this. My little fighter, Lennon James Picco went to sleep in his daddy's arms late last night. He was surrounded by family, friends, and the best doctors, nurses and hospital staff in the world. 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. I am so thankful for the four unforgettable days I got to spend with him. His mommy would have been so beyond joy to see him and to hold him, touch him, bathe him, sing to him - as I have had the privilege of doing. 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'. There are no words, but I wanted to keep you updated, as your love and support has meant more than anything in the world. All you need is love."
It reads: “Ashley Picco was a rare light, a gracious care giver and deeply in love with her husband Chris.
“They were looking forward to becoming parents and raising their son together. Tragically and unexpectedly her life was cut short.
“We established this fund to help ensure Ashley’s husband and family face fewer financial challenges in the time to come.”