Did you know that an average of 1 to 2 percent of US newborns are conceived via IVF each year? It’s an incredible statistic, but for the families that struggle with infertility, those numbers are important ones that can be seen as a ray of hope.

And while not everyone knows what it’s like to undergo IVF cycle after IVF cycle, most recognize that, while miraculous, it can enact some pretty serious emotional, physical, and financial tolls.

Patricia and Kimberly O’Neill are two women who understand the IVF journey better than most. The Arizona couple took a whopping 7 attempts to get pregnant. Nope, the O’Neills didn’t have an entirely straightforward experience— the complete process took a total of 4 years and, unfortunately, they miscarried 3 babies along the way.

It’s a sad tale, but ultimately, it’s also an inspirational one. You see, Patricia O’Neill, the wife who underwent the treatments, finally ended up getting pregnant late last year, and she gave birth to their beautiful baby girl, London, earlier this month. How amazing is that?!

By all accounts, London is a happy, healthy baby. In their situation, most parents would probably hire a photographer to take some Anne Geddes-style portraits of their miracle. It makes sense, but when anyone has been through a fertility plan like the O’Neill’s have, standard thinking doesn’t necessarily fit the situation.

That’s why Patricia and Kimberly decided to take a more symbolic, artistic approach to their baby’s first portrait. They would have their chosen photographer surround their new bundle of joy with all of the hypodermic needles with which Patricia had to inject herself for the over 4 years it took her to get pregnant.

It’s a bit of an eyebrow-raiser, for sure, but the end result is incredibly effective. As you can see by looking at the image at the top of this post, London’s stunning baby portrait is like one you’ve never seen before.

The heart-shaped design of the needles signify how much the little girl means to her moms, but they are also meant to evoke strong emotions, too. It’s an attention-grabbing photo for a reason— it helps the viewer understand, and maybe even feel, a bit of what Patricia had to go through to finally get her beloved daughter.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the gorgeous shot sure has garnered quite a bit of attention. Since being posted to the Packer Family Photography Facebook page less than two weeks ago, more than 83,000 people have “liked” it and 63,000 have shared it. In addition to their new social media célébrité, the unusual photo has also been featured in news publications across the globe.

It’s so great to see that some folks are using their creativity to bring awareness to IVF and fertility struggles. Little London sure is lucky to have these two amazing mommas!

To meet Patricia and Kimberly O’Neill and to learn more details about their harrowing journey, be sure to watch the video below.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this unconventional baby photo. Were you surprised to hear the story behind the striking shot? Do you have experience with IVF? If so, do you have a story that you would like to share?