In honor of National Grief Awareness Day this coming Friday, we welcome Jessica Janzen, a shining embodiment of strength and resilience who turned a devastating personal loss into a powerful force for good. In 2016, Jessica’s life was forever altered when her infant son, Lewiston, was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare and incurable disease…

In this poignant episode, Jessica opens up about her emotional journey from the initial shock of Lewiston’s diagnosis to finding the strength to “Bring the Joy” into those final 6 months of his life. She dives deep about her experience navigating the challenging grieving process and how her healing journey evolved into a mission of positivity and awareness.

As a motivational speaker, author, and philanthropist, Jessica is dedicated to raising awareness for SMA and advocating for a cure. Her story offers invaluable insights for those struggling to find hope and positivity in their own grief, reminding and reassuring listeners that however they’re handling their grief is acceptable…

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about turning pain into purpose, embracing healing, and making a difference through adversity.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:01] Jamie introduces Jessica Janzen.

[05:10] Jessica begins to talk about what it was like growing up on a farm. 

[09:20] Jessica explains what drove her to leave behind farm life and how she ended up in the wellness community. 

[13:30] Jessica describes the healing she found as a fitness instructor. 

[15:10] Jessica recounts her first big fundraiser that raised over $40,000 for children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy—a rare genetic disease.

[18:30] Jessica shares when she found out she was pregnant with her second baby and her birthing experience. 

[20:52] Jessica begins to explain when she found out there may be something wrong with her baby. 

[23:13] Jessica recounts being told of her son’s rare medical diagnosis. 

[28:32] Jessica describes their next steps after the diagnosis and bringing joy into her baby’s final moments.

[30:55] Jessica shares her experience with navigating grief and celebrating what would’ve been Lewiston’s first birthday. 

[35:58] Jessica talks about her passion of helping others to shift their mindset.

[38:42] Jessica opens up about the emotions and fears behind her third pregnancy. 

[40:40] Jessica shares what’s next in her journey. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[10:47] Jessica explains why individuals who workout are the best people to find community within and how finding her tribe boosted her own confidence and mindset.

[34:57] Jessica describes her big focus to not remain stagnant in grief and to actively seek out or create uplifting moments. 

[37:20] Jessica talks about how powerful our mindset is and how tapping into our ability to choose how we handle adversity is our greatest gift. 

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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Thank you to Jessica Janzen for sharing your truth with us today. Follow Jessica on Instagram @thejessicajanzen.

Check out more about Jessica:

https://www.jessicajanzen.ca/

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali 

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Jessica’s Bio:

I am a multifaceted force fueled by a good cup of coffee, resilience, joy, and an unyielding drive to make a difference. In addition to being a devoted wife and mother of three, I wear many hats; I'm a speaker, coach, philanthropist, entrepreneur, author, and self-proclaimed live wire. Beyond these titles, my true calling lies in serving others—a natural helper and challenger at heart, embodying the traits of an Enneagram Type 2 and 8.

My journey toward this purposeful path was sparked by profound loss—the passing of my father-in-law and then just 18 months later the heartbreaking loss of our son, Lewiston. Their departures, one after the other, served as stark reminders of life's fleeting nature. The average person gets 30,000 days to live, their short time with us urged me to go all in and pursue my dreams, regardless of the challenges.

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