feature
AWARENESS
Grief Journey
Bereaved parents remember son
by BRITTANYE BLAKE photos submitted
Brexton Oquendo , was a bright-eyed 17-month-old with a beautiful smile , according to his mom and dad .
Blake and Sibrana Oquendo lost their son , Brexton , to a battle with child heart disease on Monday , Jan . 17 .
According to the Oquendos , Brexton suffered from a congenital heart defect that was found at birth . He was later diagnosed with severe aortic valve regurgitation — or aortic regurgitation .
The condition occurs when the heart ’ s aortic valve doesn ’ t close tightly .
July is annually recognized as Bereaved Parents Awareness Month . A month dedicated to raising awareness of the support necessary when one endures the loss of a child , according to Hand to Hold .
Sharing Brexton ’ s story to help others has kept Blake and Sibrana
Oquendo motivated and positive .
32 Valdosta Scene | July 2022