Jay Consalvi shares story of resilience as single father in Helsinki

Saila Hänninen, an adventurous woman who climbed many mountains and completed numerous marathons, cherished every experience in life. However, her ultimate dream of becoming a mother overshadowed all her other achievements. Her husband, Jay Consalvi, noted that Saila was determined, and she typically attained what she desired. Now, Jay is a single father to their 2.5-year-old son, Enzo. In July 2024, they are spending the summer in Finland, where Jay shared their family’s story in a Helsinki playground.

Saila gave birth to Enzo in early 2022, with both biological parents present at the delivery. Before being diagnosed with cancer, Saila had frozen her eggs, enabling her to have a biological child with Jay. A close friend of theirs volunteered to be their surrogate, and the couple actively participated in most of the ultrasounds during the pregnancy.

Despite the profound challenges, including Saila’s terminal lung cancer diagnosis, they were committed to living life to the fullest, balancing cancer treatments with adventures. They traveled globally and enjoyed outdoor activities together. However, the cancer progressed, affecting her kidneys and liver, and after multiple treatments proved ineffective, Saila passed away at home in Denver in July 2022, surrounded by her family.

Jay reflects on his challenges as a single father, finding strength in caring for Enzo, who holds dual citizenship in Finland and the U.S. While the couple initially faced uncertainties regarding surrogacy and Saila’s health, they formed an unbreakable bond, underscoring that life often holds unexpected twists.