Just months ago, Joy-Anna Forsyth (neé Duggar) and her husband, Austin, announced they were expecting their second child. The reality stars already welcomed son Gideon last year, and they were excited to give him a sibling.
“Our favorite math is addition and we are very excited to share that the Forsyth family is adding a member!” they said in May. “Marriage and being a mom and dad to Gideon has already far exceeded our expectations. We are looking forward to loving another little one and seeing what special dynamic he or she brings to our family. Table for 4 sounds perfect!”
Tragically, five months into her pregnancy, Joy-Anna announced that she had suffered a miscarriage. The couple shared the name of their daughter, who was stillborn a week before the announcement.
Today marks one week since we heard these words….“So this is your baby’s heart (pointing to the ultrasound screen). I don’t hear a heartbeat or see any movement.”We had gone in for our 20-week ultrasound and gender reveal. It was a baby girl.Although we don’t understand why, God has given us unexplainable peace and comfort during this very difficult time. Yes, it still hurts and we have cried countless tears, but we know that we can trust the Lord. In the words of King David after the loss of his baby, “I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me” (2 Sam 12:23).
We don’t grieve as those who have no hope because we trust that we will see this little one again.
We named her Annabell Elise. Annabell means “God has favored me”, and Elise means “God satisfies”. What a precious thing to know that when our daughter opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was the face of Jesus.Please pray for continued healing, not only physically but for our hearts as well.
“All the way my Savior leads me; What have I to ask beside?Can I doubt His tender mercy, Who through life has been my Guide?Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort, Here by faith in Him to dwell!For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well,For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well.”
-Fanny Crosby
The news was absolutely heartbreaking, especially when you remember that grandma Mary Duggar also passed away less than a month ago. Family members shared their condolences on social media, including Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.
"We were so sad to hear that Joy and Austin’s baby girl passed away mid-way through their pregnancy," they said. "The pain of losing a child is unimaginable. Yet, for the one whose hope is in God, there is a peace that surpasses our finite understanding. We pray that God will comfort Joy and Austin and carry them through this difficult time. —Mom & Pops Duggar"
"Joy Joy & Austin, our hearts break for y’all with the loss of your precious Annabell Elise 💔🌸," sister Jill wrote. "May God continue to give y’all peace and comfort in the days ahead. 💞We love y’all dearly! 😘❤️"
Jessa, who just gave birth to a daughter recently, also shared her condolences.
"Our hearts are breaking over your loss. Such beautiful words you’ve written in your post. ❤️," she said. "Annabell will forever be in our hearts. We love you all and are praying for God’s peace and comfort during this time."
Hours after announcing the tragic news, Joy-Anna posted pictures of her and Austin holding Annabell.
We only had her for 20 weeks, Life is fragile and precious. So thankful the Lord gave her to us for that short time! She will be in our hearts forever!💝😇.Thank you all for your love and support! We can feel the prayers!💕
Thank you, @carlinbates98 for coming to town to be here for me and for doing my hair and makeup for pictures with our little girl!💖