April Kepner’s journey through faith, loss, and motherhood is a pivotal storyline in Grey’s Anatomy. April discovers she is pregnant with Samuel in Season 10, Episode 11, “Man on the Moon.” This discovery marks the beginning of a heartbreaking yet ultimately transformative chapter in her life and her relationship with Jackson Avery.
Understanding the Timeline: April’s Pregnancy and Beyond
April Kepner’s pregnancy with Samuel is not just a plot point; it’s a powerful exploration of faith, grief, and resilience. Tracking this timeline is crucial to understanding the weight and impact of this storyline.
The Joyful Discovery
The initial reaction to the pregnancy is one of immense joy and hope for both April and Jackson. They begin to imagine their life as parents, filled with love and laughter. This initial happiness makes the subsequent events all the more devastating.
The Heartbreaking Reality
Tragically, during April’s pregnancy, it is discovered that Samuel has Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type II, a severe form of brittle bone disease. The prognosis is bleak, and the doctors inform them that Samuel will likely not survive long after birth.
Choosing a Different Path
April and Jackson make the incredibly difficult decision to carry Samuel to term, knowing he will only live for a short time. They choose to cherish every moment they have with him.
The Brief Life and Lasting Impact of Samuel
Samuel is born in Season 11, Episode 11, “All I Could Do Was Cry.” He lives for only a few hours, but his impact on April and Jackson is profound. This experience deeply tests their faith and their relationship, leading to significant changes in their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions about April’s Pregnancy
To further clarify the details surrounding April’s pregnancy with Samuel and its ramifications, here are 12 frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: What is Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type II?
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), also known as brittle bone disease, is a group of genetic disorders that affect the production of collagen, a protein essential for bone strength. Type II is the most severe form, often resulting in multiple fractures in utero and shortly after birth. Infants with OI Type II typically have a shortened lifespan.
FAQ 2: How did April and Jackson react to Samuel’s diagnosis?
Initially, they were devastated. They grappled with the news, questioned their faith, and struggled to come to terms with the reality that their baby would not survive. They eventually chose to carry Samuel to term and cherish the short time they would have with him.
FAQ 3: What was Jackson’s role during April’s pregnancy?
Jackson was initially supportive but struggled with April’s unwavering faith and her decision to carry Samuel to term despite his condition. He felt helpless and struggled to find ways to cope with the impending loss. Their differing views on faith created tension between them.
FAQ 4: How did April’s faith influence her decisions during the pregnancy?
April’s strong Christian faith played a significant role in her decision to carry Samuel to term. She believed that God had a plan, even in the face of immense suffering, and she found comfort in her belief that Samuel would be with God after his short life.
FAQ 5: What impact did Samuel’s death have on April and Jackson’s relationship?
Samuel’s death put an immense strain on April and Jackson’s relationship. They grieved differently, and their differing views on faith created a significant wedge between them. The loss ultimately contributed to their eventual divorce.
FAQ 6: How did April cope with the loss of Samuel?
April struggled to cope with the loss of Samuel. She threw herself into her work, often taking on challenging trauma cases as a way to distract herself from her grief. She also questioned her faith and struggled to reconcile her beliefs with the pain she had experienced.
FAQ 7: Did Samuel’s death lead to any changes in April’s character?
Yes. Samuel’s death profoundly changed April. She became more hardened and less naive. She also became more determined to find meaning and purpose in her life, leading her to seek out challenging experiences and take risks.
FAQ 8: How did Jackson cope with the loss of Samuel?
Jackson also struggled to cope with Samuel’s death. He felt helpless and questioned his own beliefs. He sought solace in his work and tried to support April, but their differing coping mechanisms often led to conflict.
FAQ 9: Did Jackson’s perspective on faith change after Samuel’s death?
Yes, to some extent. While Jackson didn’t necessarily embrace April’s traditional religious beliefs, he developed a greater appreciation for the role that faith played in her life and how it helped her cope with the loss of Samuel.
FAQ 10: What happened to April and Jackson after Samuel’s death?
April and Jackson struggled to reconcile their grief and differing beliefs. They ultimately divorced, but they remained close and continued to co-parent their daughter, Harriet.
FAQ 11: How did April’s experience with Samuel influence her subsequent pregnancies?
April’s experience with Samuel made her incredibly anxious and fearful during her subsequent pregnancies. She carried the weight of her previous loss and worried about the health and well-being of her future children.
FAQ 12: Ultimately, what is the significance of Samuel’s storyline in Grey’s Anatomy?
Samuel’s storyline serves as a powerful exploration of grief, faith, and the complexities of human relationships. It highlights the importance of compassion, understanding, and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. It also showcases the enduring bond between April and Jackson, even after their relationship ends. The storyline is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of love.