In the final episode of our holiday series, we talk with Rob from Sad Dads Club to explore the emotions and challenges of stepping into a new year after the loss of a baby. Rob shares his perspective on processing grief, honoring your child, and finding ways to move forward with hope and purpose. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that resonates with anyone navigating the "new normal" after loss.

In part two of our holiday series, we interview with Falon Gervais and Brittanie Freeman, leaders of our in-person support groups, to discuss the importance of Community and Communicating through the holiday season. Tune in for heartfelt advice on finding connection, fostering understanding, and navigating conversations during this tender time.

In this special holiday episode, we talk with one of our favorite guests, Pamela Presler, to explore how to navigate the complexities of saying "happy holidays" to someone who is grieving. Pam offers thoughtful insights on supporting others during this difficult time and shares advice on how to prioritize rest and self-care throughout the holiday season. Whether you're grieving or supporting someone who is, this conversation provides compassion and practical tools to make it through the holidays.

Type of Loss: Stillbirth, Early-term loss, multiple losses

More about Katherine's story: In this deeply emotional episode, Katherine Monita shares the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter Leighton to a double-knotted umbilical cord just one day before her due date. Katherine reflects on the unimaginable pain of hearing the words, 'There is no heartbeat,' navigating the grief of saying goodbye, and facing the 'after' of life without her daughter. She also shares how Leighton's story has profoundly shaped her journey as a mother and her perspective on life after loss.

More about Emma's Footprints:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.EmmasFootprints.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: @EmmasFootprints
• Instagram: @EmmasFootprints

Type of Loss: Neonatal loss

More about Cecily's story: In this moving episode, Cecily Shelton shares her journey of loss, grief, and healing following the neonatal loss of her daughter, Kayla, in 2003. Diagnosed with preeclampsia during her 7-month check-up, Cecily was hospitalized and induced to save both their lives. Kayla was born and lived for two precious days, leaving Cecily to navigate a deep depression that lasted for years.

Cecily opens up about her decision to stop merely existing and start truly living, which led to the creation of her inspiring book, Living Through the Pain. This powerful memoir not only normalizes grief but also offers readers strategies to embrace healing and find purpose after loss. Through her story, Cecily reveals how she turned her pain into a journey of helping others, providing hope and strength to grieving parents.

More about Emma's Footprints:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.EmmasFootprints.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: @EmmasFootprints
• Instagram: @EmmasFootprints
  

Living Through the Pain Resources:

• ⁠www.livingthroughthepain.org⁠
  

Type of loss: Neonatal Loss

More about Maddie's Story: Maddie was induced at 38 weeks due to high blood pressure, she experienced a sudden placental abruption during labor, resulting in an emergency C-section. Riley was born on April 7, 2023, but shortly after, his heart stopped while lying in the nursery. Though resuscitated and taken to the NICU, Maddie and her husband were faced with the unimaginable decision to remove him from life support just 12 hours later. Riley passed away in his grandmother's arms on April 8, 2023. Maddie reflects on the trauma, the rare velamentous cord insertion diagnosis, and the immeasurable love and loss of her perfect baby boy.

Learn more about Emma's Footprints:

• ⁠⁠www.EmmasFootprints.com⁠⁠
• Facebook: @EmmasFootprints
• Instagram: @EmmasFootprints

In the latest episode of Confessions of a Grieving Mother, hosts Tracy and Julie sit down with Conor and Kristie from the Highmark Caring Place in Erie, PA. They share insights into the unique services offered, the organization’s multiple locations across Pennsylvania, and how they partner with Emma’s Footprints to build a stronger loss community.

Tune in to learn about the impact of this collaboration and the ways the Caring Place is making a difference for families navigating grief.

Type of Loss: Infant Loss, Life-limiting diagnosis, multiple losses, early-term loss

More about Kimberly's story: In this episode, Kimberly shares her journey of loss, love, and resilience. After two early miscarriages, Kimberly became pregnant with her daughter, Mera, who was given an 'incompatible with life' diagnosis at 16 weeks. Due to medical complications, termination wasn’t an option, and Kimberly carried Mera to term. Born alive at 38 weeks, Mera spent her 9 precious days surrounded by love in hospice palliative care. Kimberly reflects on the profound grief of losing Mera, navigating subsequent losses, and the joy of welcoming their rainbow baby through IVF in 2021. She also shares the inspiration behind founding Mera’s Mission to support families facing similar heartbreaking journeys.

Learn more about Emma's Footprints:

• ⁠⁠⁠www.EmmasFootprints.com⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: @EmmasFootprints
• Instagram: @EmmasFootprints