Brazilian singer Lexa and her fiancé, actor Ricardo Vianna, shared their heartbreaking experience of losing their daughter, Sofia, just three days after her premature birth. The couple opened up about this painful chapter during an emotional interview on the television show Fantástico, aired on February 23.
Lexa, who was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia, recounted the traumatic events leading up to her daughter’s birth, emphasizing how she strived to hold onto her pregnancy for as long as possible. "I started to feel worse every day, with headaches and severe stomach pain. My hands weren't working properly, and then my liver began to fail," Lexa explained, detailing her tumultuous six-month pregnancy.
The singer was hospitalized at Hospital and Maternidade Santa Joana, São Paulo, for 17 days before giving birth via cesarean section. Despite her efforts and thorough prenatal care, Sofia was born unexpectedly premature. Lexa expressed the helplessness she felt during those days: "The doctor told me we always prioritize the mother’s life. I insisted on going as far as I could to save my daughter," she recalled.
After her surgery, Lexa held her fragile daughter for the first time but noted the dire situation: "She weighed less than 500 grams. Tiny, but so beautiful. That first moment was bittersweet as she had already experienced two cardiac arrests." The couple faced additional challenges as Sofia's condition was initially complicated by kidney issues and liver problems.
Ricardo, who had been by Lexa's side throughout the pregnancy and hospitalization, shared the burden he carried as a father during these difficult times. "What hurts me the most, as both husband and father, is not being able to do anything when I saw my daughter intubated and helpless," he lamented.
Despite their grief, the couple has found solace and support through their fans and community. Lexa took to social media on her 30th birthday, thanking her supporters for their love and messages. "Today, on February 22, I am grateful for the love and support I’ve received. I mourn the loss of my daughter Sofia, who taught me the deepest love I could ever know," she wrote.
Lexa’s emotional transparency has echoed with many, highlighting the importance of recognizing and processing grief. "I did everything I could. Sometimes we want to blame ourselves. There was nothing more I could do. I’m living my pain, and it’s immense," she shared with raw sincerity.
Both Lexa and Ricardo emphasized the reality of their loss, acknowledging the challenging road of grief. "I don’t think there will be a day without tears from now on. It’s incredibly hard," Lexa confided.
This tragic experience has also motivated Lexa to focus on her healing process and continuing her career. “I’m gathering my pieces, trying to reconstruct my life without her, even as I navigate this immense sadness. I want to return to my work and what brings me joy," she stated firmly.
The couple’s story serves as both a heartfelt reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of parental love, as they continue to share their grief with the world.
While their hearts are broken, Lexa and Ricardo are learning to navigate their new reality, one day at a time, forever changed by their daughter’s brief but impactful life.