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The Repair Shop made for emotional viewing once again after a couple shared their family tragedy on the BBC show.
Jenny Halse and her husband James shared the story of her son Elijah who was born prematurely and tragically passed away at just 37 days old. A seascape painting which was a family heirloom passed down by James' grandparents, served as a cherished reminder of their son's short life, helping them feel connected to Elijah and aiding their journey through grief.
The couple brought the artwork to the popular show for restoration, resulting in an emotionally charged episode. Their reaction to the stunning transformation of the painting was also deeply moving.
James shared with the presenters how the painting reminded them of the Pembrokeshire coast, a "very special place" for the family. It was where they holidayed the year Elijah passed away.
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Fighting back tears, Jenny recounted: "He was 25 weeks and three days when he was born so he was tiny... I waited 16 days for a proper cuddle. It was amazing. He was perfect and miniature and then he got really, really sick.
She continued: "They performed surgery on him and he was stabilising but his brain had been catastrophically damaged. He was never going to make it out of neo-natal care.
"His arrival and departure was a life-changing experience for us. I think you have before Elijah and you have after Elijah. And we're alright. Not all of that is bad.
"We've been back to Pembrokeshire most years. It feels like a little extra place where we belong and that holds very special memories."
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James added: "I think it's a good metaphor for grief in terms of it can be quite calm sometimes but sometimes quite rough and choppy and unpredictable. That's what spoke to us about the painting."
The artwork required extensive restoration, including the removal of a large mould patch, but expert Lucia Scalisi's touch left the couple gobsmacked. Jenny explained their plans to display it prominently at home, saying every time they come and go 'he's there, part of who we are'.
She further elaborated on the significance of the painting: "In the event that your baby dies you come home with a small box rather than a lifetime of experiences. So the painting sort of for us I think links the past with a new chapter for Elijah's story."
Fans watching at home were also moved by the story. One viewer took to X and wrote: "Holy moly ... that is the saddest story I've ever heard on the repair shop ... rip Elijah."
The Repair Shop airs on BBC One weekdays at 3:45pm
