Newborn seen hugging twin in viral photo dies of rare condition



GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- A photo of twin brothers hugging has gone viral, but the story behind it has now turned heartbreaking.

The boys were born August 18 in Gainesville, Fla.

But while Mason was born healthy, his brother Hawk was diagnosed with a rare congenital condition called CDH.

The boys' parents chronicled Hawk's journey on Facebook -- and posted the sweet picture of both brothers meeting again outside of the womb with the caption,

"This picture was taken a 11 days after they were born, it's the first time they have ever touched and as soon as Mason felt Hawk he reached out for his arm and smiled this big. We thought it was time for everyone pulling for our boy to see this picture."


The photo went viral, garnering well-wishes and prayers from thousands of people.

But a few weeks later Hawk succumbed to the condition.

His parents announced his passing on Facebook saying they will always treasure the photo and the short time they had with their little boy.