Confessions of a Grieving Mother

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.

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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.

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Type of Loss: Stillborn, Twin Loss

More about Erin's story: Erin shares her journey through infertility and the devastating loss of one of her twin daughters, Laikyn, who was stillborn at 33 weeks. After years of struggling with unexplained infertility and medical intervention, Erin was overjoyed to be carrying twins. Her pregnancy progressed smoothly until a routine appointment at 33 weeks brought heartbreaking news—Baby B, Laikyn, no longer had a heartbeat. Erin reflects on her grief, the complexities of carrying both babies to 35 weeks, and how she navigated the difficult journey of new parenthood while mourning her precious daughter.

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Type of Loss: SIDS, Infant Loss

More about Nancy's Story: Nancy Grundl shares the devastating story of losing her daughter June to SIDS at just 3 months old. After a joyful morning at daycare, June peacefully fell asleep and never woke up. Nancy reflects on the profound grief of losing her perfect baby girl, and how she continues to find signs of hope and strength to move forward. Join us as Nancy opens up about her healing journey and the ways June's brief life continues to impact and guide her family.

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In this special episode, we take a break from our usual topics and invite you to get to know the amazing women behind Emma’s Footprints. Join us as we share fun stories, surprising secrets, and lots of laughter! From favorite guilty pleasures to behind-the-scenes quirks, this episode is all about connecting with the team and letting you in on the lighter side of the work we do. Tune in to meet the voices behind the mic and learn more about the ladies who pour their hearts into supporting grieving families.

Type of loss: Stillbirth

More about Casey's story: In this episode, Casey Mihalko shares the heartbreaking story of losing her son at 31 weeks. After a routine checkup turned devastating, Casey was faced with the unimaginable task of delivering her baby boy, only to learn that no cause of death could be found. She opens up about her journey through grief, the challenges of dealing with PTSD, and the well-meaning but painful comments she received. Casey’s strength and resilience shine through as she reflects on the support she found and the unexpected kindness of strangers.

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Type of loss: Early-term loss, ectopic loss, multiple losses, stillborn

More about Kayla's story: In this episode, Kayla DeCristoforo shares her journey through multiple devastating losses. After two ectopic pregnancies, Kayla was hopeful when she became pregnant with her daughter. Tragically, at 22 weeks, she received the heartbreaking news that her baby no longer had a heartbeat. Kayla opens up about the emotional and physical toll of repeated loss and the challenges of navigating grief after such unimaginable heartbreak.

Type of Loss: Early-term loss

More about Tabitha's Story: Listen as Tabitha shares about the tragic early-term loss of her daughter, Hanna, during the height of the COVID pandemic. Faced with inadequate medical care and heartbreaking personal struggles, Tabitha shares how she navigated grief, family drama, and the devastating loss of her baby girl. From traumatic medical experiences to healing after loss, Tabitha reflects on the impact of losing Hanna and the challenges of moving forward with subsequent pregnancies.

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Taboo Topic Series: This season, we are kicking off our Taboo Topic series where we discuss the uncomfortable topics that go hand-in-hand with losing your baby. If you have a suggestion for this series, please reach out to us at [email protected].

More about this episode: In this episode of our Taboo Topic series, we dive into one of the most difficult conversations surrounding pregnancy loss—the heartbreaking decision to terminate a wanted pregnancy. We explore the emotional turmoil, societal stigma, and the complex realities faced by those who have had to make this unimaginable choice. This episode aims to bring understanding and support to a topic often shrouded in silence.

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