"Your baby has died." Four words that changed my life forever.
In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of my daughter, Amayah, who was stillborn just days before we were preparing to welcome her into the world.
Joining me is my grief counsellor, Jay, whose support has been an important part of my healing journey. Together, we have an open and honest conversation about stillbirth, pregnancy loss, grief, and what it means to keep living after unimaginable loss.
We explore:
My personal experience of stillbirth and the days that followed
Why pregnancy loss and stillbirth are still surrounded by silence and stigma
The many ways grief can show up, and why there is no "right" way to grieve
How loss can affect relationships, marriage, and family dynamics
Navigating cultural expectations while honouring your own healing
Ways to honour a baby whose life was brief but deeply loved
The importance of trusting your instincts during pregnancy and advocating for yourself
Practical insights for anyone supporting someone through child loss
How grief counsellors care for themselves while holding space for others
This conversation is for parents who have experienced pregnancy loss, for families and friends wanting to better understand grief, for expectant parents, and for anyone who believes that difficult conversations deserve compassion rather than silence.
If this episode helps even one person feel less alone, then sharing Amayah's story has been worthwhile.
Content warning: This episode discusses stillbirth, pregnancy loss, infant death, grief, and bereavement. Please listen with care and take the time you need.
If this conversation resonates with you, I'd love for you to follow the podcast, leave a review, or share this episode with someone who may need it. Together, we can help break the silence around pregnancy loss and remind those grieving that they are not alone.
Some resources to help you or someone you love -
RedTree Foundation - the one that helped me - Pregnancy & Child Loss Support https://www.redtreefoundation.org.au
Stillbirth Foundation - https://stillbirthfoundation.org.au/help-and-support/stillbirth-support-services/
Red Nose Australia - https://rednose.org.au/grief-and-loss-support/overview/
Still Aware - https://www.stillaware.org/
SA health Stillbirth - https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/stillbirth
Red Nose Grief and Loss Support Line at 1300 308 307 (available 24/7)
SA Health Stillbirth support line - 13 14 65 (available 24/7)
Sands National Support Line at 1300 072 637for dedicated pregnancy and infant loss support.
The episode was recorded at ABC Radio Adelaide.
The editing and production by Troy Sincock. https://www.abc.net.au/listen/troy-sincock/101853710