The family of Sunshine Coast yoga instructor Lauren Verona has spoken publicly of their "unfathomable loss", while detailing the tragic circumstances surrounding the popular yoga instructor's death.
Speaking at the Maroochydore studio Ms Verona owned, husband Ryan Gaylard said he wanted to share their story to provide comfort to the many people Lauren "touched, healed, inspired ... and saved".
The 42-year-old yoga practitioner died on June 8, shortly after giving birth to her third daughter Lucinda at her home.
"It was Lauren's perfect natural birth," Mr Gaylard said.
"Using everything we have learnt from our hypno-birthing course, Lauren composed herself perfectly, calmly breathing her baby into this world.
"I want you all to know that Lauren connected with our beautiful baby."
But the family's joy turned to devastation when the mother's condition rapidly deteriorated and she was rushed to hospital.
"To the ambulance officers and the people at Sunshine Coast University Hospital that were involved in trying to keep Lauren with us, our family cannot thank you enough for everything you did," Mr Gaylard said.
Rare condition being investigated as cause of death
Ms Verona's cause of death is still under investigation, but Mr Gaylard said he had been told by hospital staff they believed his wife had suffered from a rare condition known as an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE).
A Sunshine Coast University Hospital spokesperson said their "deepest condolences go out to Mr Gaylard at this sad time".
"As the matter is currently before the coroner, we are unable to comment further," the spokesperson said.
AFE occurs when amniotic fluid or foetal material enters the maternal bloodstream.
According to Queensland Health, AFE is rare but the leading cause of direct maternal death, and there is no proven effective treatment.
"There is little research into this condition as it doesn't occur often ... it's as rare as hen's teeth," Mr Gaylard said.
"In true Lauren style, she is always helping people.
"No words can explain the devastation of this, but no words can explain Lauren at the same time, either.
"That smile, just so welcoming, and so loving. She is the most genuine person I have ever met."
The happiest and saddest day of our lives
Ms Verona's daughters have also paid tribute to their mother.
Eldest daughter Allira spoke on behalf of "Evie, Lucinda and myself".
"My mum taught me to trust myself. At bedtime, Mum would come into my bedroom and I would talk about my concerns and worries.
"It inspired me to go on. I wish I could say I love you one more time to her.
"This has been the best and the worst time of my life.
"With everything that has happened, little baby Lucinda has made me feel so much better, even when I just glance at her.
"I will make sure Lucinda has an amazing life. I will treat Lucinda as Mum treated me, as Mum would want me to."
Mr Gaylard said the girls described the day their little sister was born as the "happiest and saddest" day of their lives.
Community rallying around the family
Since Lucinda's birth and her mother's shock death, the family has received an "incredible" amount of support from the community.
"The outpouring of support has been overwhelming in every way and form," Mr Gaylard said.
"In particular, the incredible gift of breast milk from women, local and from afar.
"These women have connected together in honour of Lauren and her intention to breastfeed baby Lucinda.
"We are eternally grateful."
Public memorial to honour Lauren
A private service will be held on July 8, followed by a public memorial at Sunshine Coast Stadium on July 15.
"We want to honour Lauren for the gift she was to this world," Mr Gaylard said.
"Our family is overwhelmed from all the love and support sent our way — it is truly incredible.
"Lauren finished just about every yoga class with 'say hello to someone you don't know before you leave'.
