'First and last theory' explained as mother picking up son leaves strangers in tears

A video of a mother and son cuddling has left people online deep in their feelings, as they took part in the ‘first and last’ trend.

There are certain moments that happen in life that we never forget, and this one might be added to the list.

Kora Hartwell, 31, had seen a social media trend and decided that she would see what would happen if she asked her son to participate.

But what happened next left everyone feeling the magnitude of it.

Kora set up her phone to capture the moment she asked her nine-year-old son, Clark, if she could pick him up one last time, leading him to ‘melt’ into her - much to the mum’s shock.

Inspired by people who recorded the 'last pick-up' of their older children, Kora wanted to do the same thing after knowing how gentle and caring her son is.

The trend is all about lifting your child and carrying them like you did when they were little.

As they continue to get bigger and heavier, you essentially do this as the last time you’ll pick them up because of their age.

Many people never recall the moment they hold their child for the final time, so this gives them the opportunity to make it extra special.

And it’s bound to be an emotional moment as you come to understand that they are still children, but are growing up too.

Clark has been used to taking on the role of big brother to two younger siblings, aged two-and-a-half and eight months old.

Kora, from New Hampshire, US, said: "When he put his head on my shoulder, I could feel his whole body soften and melt into me.

Mothers remember when they first held their children (Kora Hartwell / SWNS)

"I was not expecting that at all.

"In that instant, I knew he needed that hug just as much as I did."

Kora revealed that the emotional moment made her realise that 'big boys' need love and affection too.

Another mum who did the same thing and left people sobbing online was influencer Elizabeth Marcelena on Instagram, who explained the trend to her son and struggled to get through it without crying.

She then picked him up and the pair shared the tender moment.

It's time to remember the last (Getty Stock Image)

As for people who watched the clip, they felt the emotions too, with one writing: "Every time I see this trend I bawl like a baby."

Another said: "Welp I’m a puddle of tears."

Someone else commented: "Sobbing my eyes out. Who started this trend?! I’m not okay with it."

Are you going to do the trend too?