Sisters in Loss Podcast: Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss, &amp; Infertility Stories

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367 - Why your VOTE matters for Black Maternal Health! Oct 23, 2024

366 - Transabdominal Cerclage and Rainbow Baby with Jazmyne Scott Oct 16, 2024

Have you heard of a transabdominal cerclage? What is a transabdominal cerclage? A transabdominal cerclage is a small, extremely strong, woven synthetic band stitched high on the cervix. This band supports the full length of the cervix and resists the pressure the growing fetus places on it. The band prevents the cervix from opening and losing the pregnancy. Today's guest experienced two chemical pregnancies over about a year and a half in the beginning of her marriage. Eventually through medical intervention, Jazmyne Scott was able to get pregnant with her son then she lost him in the second trimester due to incompetent cervix or cervical insuffiency. She was determined to have her rainbow baby. Jazmyne took control of her maternal health and researched doctors in Atlanta who could perform a transabdominal cerclage based on her being apart of the Abbyloopers facebook group. In today's episode Jazmyne takes us on the journey to advocating for herself to get a transabdominal cerclage, getting pregnant with her rainbow baby girl, birthing her baby girl and being a parent after loss. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below

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365 - Child Loss and Fighting the Family Policing System with Mashai Small Oct 09, 2024

Today's guest is a former soldier, life coach, podcaster, and doula. Mashai Small has a story to tell of how her divine assignment is to give life to her children and others. She was in the military when she experienced child loss and didn't receive much support. Mashai turned to the internet to learn how to grieve healthly and to help educate her children about their sibling who transitioned.

In today's episode Mashai discussed her child loss story along with how she has been advocating and fighting the child protective services system for her other children. We discuss grieving, healing, and how her work as a life coach and doula has helped her advocacy for herself and other families.

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364 - 7 Years of Sisters in Loss! I got a BOOK DEAL! Oct 02, 2024

Can you believe this podcast is celebrating 7 years of power and impact? I know I can't at all.

We offically hit 7 years of podcasting on August 2, 2024 and I held this news in until the official announcement via Publishers Marketplace. I got a BOOK DEAL yall! So much more has happened since I recorded this episode back in July, but the sentiments are the same GO VOTE!

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to hear about how I got the book deal and where Sisters in Loss is going in 2025 and beyond.

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363 - I had my abortion and son on the same day! Sep 25, 2024

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. On June 24, 2022, this Dobbs decision was overturned making abortions illegal in many states even as early as 6 weeks gestation. Abortion is on the ballot in less than 50 days to election day.

In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice.

Today’s episode is a solo episode as I am sharing my own personal abortion story. I have never told this story on this podcast, and wanted to share my truth to release the hurt, embarrassment, and shame I have worked through with therapy and carried around with me so many years. August 19, 2004 is a day I will never forget. It is also a day I almost lost my life ten years later giving birth to my rainbow baby boy.

This episode is for you to listen to learn more about the healing that takes place post abortion and loss.

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362 - Eliminating Shame, Guilt, and Regret with Post-Abortive Women with Latoya Mathews - REWIND Sep 18, 2024

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. On June 24, 2022, this Dobbs decision was overturned making abortions illegal in many states even as early as 6 weeks gestation. Abortion is on the ballot in less than 50 days to election day.

In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

When today’s guest became pregnant with her daughter she sobbed to a friend “how was she going to take care of one when she had given up another” Latoya Mathews shares her abortion story, how post-partum depression along with guilt and shame of her abortion came alive after having her daughter, and how she has turned her pain into power by helping other post-abortive women eliminate shame, guilt, and regret of their abortions.

This episode is for you to listen to if you are ready to release the shame and stigma of having an abortion and want a community to help you.

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361 - Stress and Depression led to decision to Abort Pregnancy with Tiffany Nicole - REWIND Sep 11, 2024

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. On June 24, 2022, this Dobbs decision was overturned making abortions illegal in many states even as early as 6 weeks gestation. Abortion is on the ballot in less than 50 days to election day.

In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

After becoming unexpectedly pregnant at 28 today’s guest fell into a deep depression due to the circumstances of her pregnancy. Tiffany Nicole takes us back on the journey toward healing from shame and stigma of abortion, and losing an ex to another woman. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever been in a situation when you were stressed and depressed it made you physically ill, and how love and therapy can move you out of that depressed state.

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360 - Pregnancy after Stillbirth with Tierra Hucke - REWIND Sep 04, 2024

Can you imagine having a doula and midwife, but still experience a stillbirth?

Today’s guest had that experience. She was healthy, ate right, worked out consistently, and even worked with a midwife and doula at a birthing center throughout her pregnancy. At 36 weeks after a babymoon life changed for Tierra Hucke. She went to the hospital because she didn’t feel the baby move and was told the baby did not have a heartbeat.

In this episode she shares her journey through grief, getting pregnant 2 months after loss, and delivery of her rainbow baby 11 months after she lost her son Jameson. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth, and want to know what pregnancy after stillbirth journey is like.

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359 - Stillbirth and PTSD in Zimbabwe and Chiedza Makwara - REWIND Aug 28, 2024

Pregnancy and Infant Loss is not only a United States concern, but it’s worldwide. Today’s guest is from the continent (yes that continent that many think is a country) Africa. She experienced a stillbirth at 32 weeks in her home country of Zimbabwe.

In this episode, Chiedza Makwara shares how pregnancy loss is still a taboo concept in Zimbabwe, how she experienced depression and PTSD after her loss, and how she is using her blog and platform to bring awareness to stillbirth.

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358 - Recurrent Miscarriages and Male Factory Infertility with Tamika Henderson - REWIND Aug 21, 2024

Have you heard of male factor infertility?

Male Factor infertility can be caused due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices, and other factors that lead to infertility.

Today’s guest shares her recurrent miscarriage story and journey where her husband is experiencing secondary infertility by way of male factor. Tamika Henderson had miscarriages in 2016, 2017, and 2018, and it became so routine she knew she was miscarrying. After consulting with a fertility doctor she found out her fertility was due to male factor which was shocking because her husband already had two children. In this episode she takes us back on that journey to healing, and her next steps in her fertility treatments.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of male factor fertility and how it effects a marriage.

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357 - IVF Pregnancy after Ectopic Losses and Journey to afford IVF with Britne Taylor Aug 14, 2024

What does an IVF Pregnancy journey look like after losing your fallopian tubes?

Today's guest experienced two ectopic pregnancies that resulted in blood loss but also for her to lose her fallopian tubes. Britne Taylor lost her fallopian tubes in her first year of marriage and saving for IVF seemed impossible as her job only offered $500 towards fertility benefits. A few years later she was recommended to become a doula through Sisters in Loss that helped assist her on her healing journey and save for IVF treatments.

In this episode, Britne takes us on her journey of how becoming a doula and supporting over 18 families has healed her and serve as God told her to do while she waited and saved for IVF. She began her IVF journey in January 2023 and had 1 failed transfer and she is currently at the time we recorded 12 weeks pregnant with her miracle baby girl and she has another girl embryo waiting.

We talk about the journey in waiting and how serving others helped her heal but also provided her with tools she is going to use during this pregnancy.

This episode is for you to listen to if you are in your waiting season and want inspiration on hearing a success story and journey. This is also for you to listen to if you are interested in becoming a Doula and removing whats holding you back from serving others as God has called you to do.

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356 - Cervical Insufficiency and Losing a baby at 17 weeks with Oneisha Perrotte-Lewis Aug 08, 2024

Have you heard of the term cervical insufficiency? Cervical insufficiency is the inability of the cervix to retain the fetus, in the absence of uterine contractions or labor (painless cervical dilatation), owing to a functional or structural defect. It is cervical ripening that occurs far from the term.

Today's guest experienced an insufficient cervix and lost her baby boy Jayden at 17 weeks gestation. Oneisha Perrotte-Lewis booked her ultrasound for my gender reveal and went to the hospital for a second opinion after noticing a handful amount of blood and a specific pain that she knew wasn't average cramps. Her OBGYN would not listen to her when she let him know numerous times that she was experiencing a lot of pain but he told her that the pain I was experiencing was normal. She knew in her heart that it wasn’t normal. She was actually in pre-term labor and having contractions the entire time.

In this episode Oneisha shares what happened after she birthed Jayden, how his birth inspired her to become a bereavement doula and start the Little Bean Foundation. Her foundation meant to bring awareness to all types of pregnancy and infant loss, to educate women and men about their bodies, to provide the necessary support as a Bereavement Doula and advocate for future safe, successful and healthier pregnancies. Little Bean Foundation provides a safe space for bereaved parents to be open and vulnerable in order to share their stories about their losses.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced cervical insufficiency or are interested in becoming a Bereavement Doula.

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355 - Naming a Baby that was Electively Terminated with Raina Brown - REWIND Jul 31, 2024

In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

After being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) today’s guest was surprised when she found out she was pregnant and the child’s father asked her to terminate the pregnancy. Raina Brown shares intimate details of her choice to terminate her pregnancy, how she conquered grief, and how she is healing by identifying and naming her baby she never had a chance to hold. This episode is for you to listen to if you ever have been in a relationship and had to make a decision that was life altering like deciding to have an abortion.

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354 - Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and Peace with Child Loss with Taysha Turman - REWIND Jul 24, 2024

Imagine at your first doctors appointment being told your baby had fluid around their heart? After being advised to wait until the baby had grown to conduct a full anatomy screening, today’s guest was faced with devastating news. Taysha Turman found out at 16 weeks that her baby was diagnosed with hypo-plastic left heart syndrome and a diaphragmatic hernia. The doctors advised her to terminate her pregnancy, but she kept her faith in God and trusted God throughout her pregnancy and birth. Her baby boy had a traumatic birth receiving chest compressions and died 3 months later due to his heart condition. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced child loss and how to find peace after loss.

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353 - Congenital Heart Disease and Healing from Child Loss with Chappy Morgan - REWIND Jul 17, 2024

After being diagnosed at 18 years old with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) today’s guest was told she was unable to have children. At 31, Chappy Morgan lost a significant amount of weight and was surprised when she found out she was expecting. During an ultrasound she found out her son was sick and was going to suffer from heart problems specifically congenital heart disease. Chappy shares in this episode how she fought for her son Messiah, is healing from child loss, and continues to share Messiah’s message through #MessiahStrong

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352 - Maternal Near Miss Survivor and H.E.L.L.P. Syndrome with Tomeka Isaac - REWIND Jul 03, 2024

Imagine being told that your baby had no fetal heartbeat one month from their due date? Today’s guest Tomeka Isaac takes us back to that very moment where she and her husband were faced with the news no parent ever wants to hear that her son Jace was not going to make it. Then they were dealt another blow that she was diagnosed with H.E.L.L.P Syndrome (Hemolysis Elevated Liver Enzymes Low Platelet) which is pre-eclampsia on steroids and she was dying. This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of H.E.L.L.P. Syndrome and how God covers you so that you can survive and thrive after a near death birth experience.

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351 - Overcoming Endometriosis After Losing Ovary & Fallopian Tube with Bria Burrell - REWIND Jun 26, 2024

Have you ever suffered from painful periods? Today’s guest Bria Burrell has always had painful periods, and in 2015 she found out there was an cyst on her left ovarian. Her OB/GYN monitored the cyst for a couple of months, until it started to grow. In order to prevent the cyst from rupturing the OB/GYN performed a laparoscopic procedure in January 2016. . The cyst dominated the left part of Bria’s pelvic cavity, and therefore, they had to remove her left ovarian and Fallopian tube, and during this procedure it was determined she had endometriosis. She had many complications from that surgery that left her bowel perforated resulting in her wearing a temporary colostomy bag. Bria takes us on the next steps of her journey to motherhood in this podcast where she undergoes fertility treatments and 2 rounds of IVF, that has resulted in two miscarriages. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis or have lost a Fallopian tube or ovary.

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350 - Losing your Baby and Losing your Womb with Alexus Harris Oluyole - REWIND Jun 19, 2024

Losing your baby and losing your womb and ability to have more children is what today’s guest had to face. Alexus Harris Oluyole lost her son Maverick at 21 weeks due to pregnancy complications and had to have a partial hysterectomy to save her life.

Alexus Harris Oluyole was devastated as she had to navigate the grief of losing her son and losing her ability to bear more children. God was her anchor during this time and lead her to write a book Peace That Supersedes to help encourage women who are going through challenges with fertility, pregnancy loss, or child loss.

In this episode Alexus takes us on her healing journey, the challenges she face with seeing babies everywhere, and her path forward to motherhood.

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349 - Overcoming Secondary Infertility with Jessica Hortman - REWIND Jun 12, 2024

After experiencing three losses today’s guest felt ashamed and guilty of her grief as she experienced secondary infertility with already having two children.

Jessica Hortman had a spontaneous miscarriage in 2015 at 6 weeks, a miscarriage due to a submucosal fibroid at 10 weeks in 2016, two years years of not getting pregnant, and then finding out she had a fibroid in 50 percent of my uterus. After having the fibroid removed, Jessica had an ectopic pregnancy in 2018.

In today’s episode Jessica takes us back on how she navigated her emotions of grief while still being a mother, and how she is overcoming secondary infertility.

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348 - What does Life After Baby Loss look like? Life after Lakhanya with Yonela Rasi - REWIND Jun 05, 2024

What does Life After Baby Loss look like? Feel like? Appear to be for everyone like today’s guest. Yonela Resi is the mother of two angels. One baby she loss at 16 weeks and the other a stillbirth at 38 weeks. In this episode she takes us on that journey of becoming a mother at 24 in South Africa, the black community there and how baby loss is not talked about, and how she started the Lakhanya Foundation in honor of her angels. Today’s episode is for you to listen to if you have wonder what does life after baby loss look like for me? Today’s guest shares exactly what it means to her.

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347 - Healing from Miscarriage and Birthing a Miracle Micropreemie at 26 weeks with Carrita Flle - REWIND May 29, 2024

After two miscarriages today’s guest experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks. Carrita Flie would not have chosen this journey to motherhood. After her miscarriages, one in the first trimester and one in the second, she was labeled high risk and had to see a specialist weekly when she became pregnant with her rainbow baby. At 21 weeks she was told her cervix was shortened and received a cerclage. Even though Carrita had a cerclage she experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks and her son spent 117 days in the NICU. In this episode she takes us back to how she healed from her miscarriages, going into labor at 26 weeks, and raising a micropreemie.

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346 - Feeling like you may never experience Motherhood after Miscarriages with Jasmine M. Mason - REWIND May 22, 2024

Have you felt you may never experience motherhood?

Today’s guest felt exactly that way after experiencing two miscarriages. Jasmine Moore experienced her first miscarriage in 2016 at 11 weeks cause was a blighted ovum. In 2018 she experienced her second miscarriage at 19 weeks due to natural causes. Jasmine takes us back on her journey to motherhood in this episode and shares the pain of not ever experiencing motherhood.

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345 - Crystal Justice’s Healing from Miscarriage and Still Desiring to become a Mother - REWIND May 15, 2024

Being raised in a Christian faith based home, and respecting the unspoken rule of not having children out of wedlock, today’s guest began her journey to motherhood at 38 years old.

Crystal Justice found out she was pregnant on Aug 9, 2018. On Sept 7, 2018 she was told that the pregnancy was no longer viable. Despite my HCG levels and Progesterone levels being normal her D&C was scheduled on Sept 11, 2018 which is was her partner’s birthday.

In this episode Crystal takes us back to that day and how her faith has helped her heal from miscarriage.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a miscarriage, maybe advanced maternal age, and still have the desire to become a mother.

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344 - Shawn Owen’s Uterine Fibroids Journey and Pregnancy After Miscarriage - REWIND May 08, 2024

90% of African Americans women have fibroids and today’s guest shares her miscarriage story and rainbow pregnancy with fibroids.

Shawn Owens found out she was expecting as she was preparing for an outpatient procedure. She and her husband were shocked by the news due to her diagnosis with uterine fibroids and her being 38 years old. Shawn wanted to wait to share the news with her family around Father’s Day. She ended up in the Emergency Room a week before Fathers Day with severe pain and bleeding. The doctors could not detect a heartbeat and sent her home with medication for pain to miscarry with no direction.

In today’s episode Shawn takes us back to that day and then shares when she was ready to try again to conceive her rainbow baby which pregnancy came with many challenges like bleeding, being placed on bed rest, and not being able to walk due to the size of her 5 fibroids.

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343 - Bereaved Mother's Day - Honoring our Angels May 01, 2024

International Bereaved Mother’s Day is this upcoming Sunday, May 5, 2024. This day is for us to show our love for our babies gone to heaven far too soon. Sunday, May 12, 2024 in the US we celebrate Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day can be very challenging, difficult emotionally, and with social distancing and quarantine can and will be very lonely for many Sisters in Loss. Today’s episode is my love letter to you letting you know that You are a Mother! All of the needle pokes, disappointing news, positive and negative pregnancy tests, exciting feelings of baby movement, to holding your baby in your arms after they have taken their last breath made you a mother. Don’t let anyone make you feel different on Mother’s Day.

On Sunday, do what you need to do. Watch church online, make you a bomb brunch with mimosas, cry hard, stay home, and facetime or houseparty with family and friends will make the day better. Do it all. Sunday is your Mother’s Day.

You are amazing! You are brave! You are beautiful! You are loved! You are blessed! You are a Mom.

Happy Mother’s Day Sister in Loss!

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342 - State of Black Maternal Health - REWIND Apr 18, 2024

April is Sisters in Loss Infertility Awareness Month! All month long we will be highlighting infertility stories and journey’s.

Black Maternal Health week was April 11-17 and Infertility Awareness Week is April 18-24. This week we are talking about reproductive health.

Did you know that some midwives specialize in high risk births and pregnancy after loss or infertility?

Today’s guest is a Certified Nurse Midwife and founder of Sakina Health who partners with birthing families to inspire them to become savvy birthers. After spending nearly two decades as a midwife with nearly 1000 births in the hospital, birth center, and home, Takiya Ballard knows what it truly means to offer a unique type of healthcare that is unbiased and respectful in every way.

In this episode we deep dive into the State of Black Maternal Health, we discuss the differences between midwifery and doulas, her podcast The Savvy Black Birther, and creating the right birth team for us as black women.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to learn how to create the right birth team for you, the differences of midwifery and doulas, and how you can take control of your reproductive health.

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341 - Black Birth Stories with Shayla Brown Apr 03, 2024

Black birth stories have joy and they also do have trauma. In today's episode we dive into the creator of the Black Birth Story blog Shayla Brown's own birth story and journey to becoming a mom. Shayla has been pregnant over 10 times with a few miscarriages and one heterotopic pregnancy that resulted in her losing a fraternal twin ectopically and being currently pregnant with the other twin. She shares her journey through grieving while mothering and removing negative emotions, recognizing and defining her emotions, and talking through those emotions with trusted professionals and therapist.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced loss in between earth side babies and how to manage your emotions through it all. Black birth stories are joyful and we can birth trauma free.

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340 - Pregnancy After Loss - Stillbirth and Malia's Present with Helena Morais Mar 29, 2024

Parenting after loss is a journey. It's important to make space for conflicting emotions. Don't put pressure on yourself to feel that having another baby will resolve or put an end to the pain of a previous loss. It's okay to feel happiness and sadness at the same time. Life may be moving on, but this doesn't mean you have to let go of a previous loss.

In today's episode Helena Morais shares her stillbirth story and pregnancy after loss journey and inspiration for Malia's present. She lost her daughter Malia due to preclamsia leading to a placenta abruption. She grieved and tried again and was blessed with her son Arinze. She shares her journey to healing through her sprituality and developing gifts in honor of her daughter Malia.

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339 - Parenting After Loss - Honoring my Angel Baby and Earthly Baby with Nkemka Egbuho Mar 13, 2024

Parenting after loss is a journey. It's important to make space for conflicting emotions. Don't put pressure on yourself to feel that having another baby will resolve or put an end to the pain of a previous loss. It's okay to feel happiness and sadness at the same time. Life may be moving on, but this doesn't mean you have to let go of a previous loss.

In today's episode we have Nkemka Egbudo back to share her journey of parenting after loss being a mom to a 1 year old. We talk about what is like to honor your angel baby and earthly baby and the hopes she has as she parents her daughter but also acknowleding her loss.

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338 - Trying Again: Anxiety & Stress during Pregnancy After Loss Feb 28, 2024

Below are some coping tips that worked for me on how to Handle the Anxiety, Fear and Stress that comes with Pregnancy After Loss.

Focus on one day at a time. Easier said than done, right? But I always keep my favorite verse with me that "All things work together for the good of those who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 If God has called you to be a mother especially for you to have another child it will happen, it is his purpose for your life. I learned to take my pregnancy one day at a time because I celebrated what was good, different, and better about my new pregnancy. I paid attention to what's going well each day and how I was feeling and how the baby was moving and healthy. Remember each pregnancy is different, and the fact that you miscarried, had an infant loss or stillbirth does not mean this pregnancy will end that way.

Don't always expect to be happy and joyful all the time - We all have good and bad days when we are not pregnant so don't expect it to be joyful and happy all the time. Remind yourself that being pregnant again can be a scary experience.

Pray

Journal

Celebrate Milestones

Take Care of Yourself

Seek a Therapist, Coach, or Grief Counselor

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337 - Trying to Conceive: I'm Pregnant! Pregnancy After Loss Feb 21, 2024

Congratulations! You are now pregnant and are ready to embark on another journey of bringing forth life. It can be a very difficult journey of pregnancy if you are not ready to face fear, anxiety, and any other preconceived feelings of pregnancy after loss.

Most women who become pregnant after experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death find themselves hit by a flood of different emotions when they first discover that they’re pregnant again.

Below are some different emotions you may be feeling throughout your pregnancy and how to deal with them.

Mixed Feelings

Hesitation and Detachment

Anxiety concerning the timing of the pregnancy

Guilt

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336 - Trying to Conceive: Making the Decision to Try Again with Erica Michelle Feb 07, 2024

Are you ready to try to conceive?

Today's episode is a solo episode by Founder Erica Michelle on Trying Again and Making the Decision to try to conceive.

Making the decision to try again is not an easy one. This decision may trigger many different emotions and bring on anxiety, fear, guilt, inadequacy, hopelessness, and a sense of failure. In this series I plan to equip you with the questions to ask yourself and your partner to prepare your mind, body, and inner self for another pregnancy.

Below are 3 questions you should ask yourself before you and your partner make the decision to begin to actively try to conceive after your loss.

Emotional Stability - Are you emotionally ready for another pregnancy?
Working through your grief - Have you taken time to grieve about the death of your baby?
Cautious Excitement - Are you mentally prepared for the challenges of a subsequent pregnancy?

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335 - Easing into 2024 with Erica Michelle Jan 31, 2024

2024 is here and we are kicking off the year with a solo episode. Our founder, Erica Michelle, shares about easing into 2024, goals for Sisters in Loss in 2024, and surviving and thriving in 2024.

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334 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? The Martin’s Pregnancy Loss Journey with PCOS and Chasing Rainbows Podcast - REWIND Jan 24, 2024

Pregnancy loss and infertility can be so hard on a marriage. It can either tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. In fact it is said that almost 80% of couples who experience a miscarriage or infertility end up in divorce. In this month of love we will be featuring 4 couples showing by prayer, faith in God, and a strong commitment to stay together their marriages endured the hard times of pregnancy loss and infertility. This is the last couple in our series The Martin’s. They are fellow podcasters and have created Chasing Rainbows podcast documenting their infertility journey. In this episode they take us back to the beginning of their journey to parenthood, battling infertility with a PCOS diagnosis, how they grieved their son Noah they loss at 20 weeks, and how Starbucks is helping fund their IVF journey.

WE ARE THE MARTINS!! Being from two different states, Jason (MS) and I (KY) met in college and have been married for more than 14 plus years and sexually active for 16 years (I know!). Although we practiced safe sex, during college, we never became pregnant. I started noticing some changes with my body, saw my gynecologist and was diagnosed with PCOS. We figured we would take meds, enjoy each other, and worry about babies later. Little did we know, later would be 8-10 years down the road. With our first miraculous pregnancy, we experienced a second-trimester pregnancy loss with no known medical reason. It would take several years later for us to conceive with some medical assistance which all ended in miscarriages. Pregnancy losses are difficult but we are still standing!

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333 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? The Pruitt’s Unexplained Infertility Journey and Gracefully Waiting Ministry - REWIND Jan 17, 2024

Pregnancy loss and infertility can be so hard on a marriage. It can either tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. In fact it is said that almost 80% of couples who experience a miscarriage or infertility end up in divorce. In this month of love we will be featuring 4 couples showing by prayer, faith in God, and a strong commitment to stay together their marriages endured the hard times of pregnancy loss and infertility. In this episode we have the Pruitt’s who share their infertility journey and how they are gracefully waiting on their promise from God. Glenn and Natasha have been married for 4 years and live in Austin, Texas. They have never conceived so that lead to many doctor visits, trying different types of medicines, having procedures, many emotional rollercoaster, attempt to foster to adopt a teenager, which tested their marriage. Gracefully Waiting was birthed with anticipation of giving hope to other women battling infertility. The Hope Gift Boxes allows Natasha to share her story and start a conversation of giving hope in the midst of the storm. In this episode we learn how the Pruitt’s are gracefully waiting for their blessing while serving God and being faithful to the call on their lives as ministry leaders.

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332 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Donor Sperm and IVF Journey in Same Sex Marriage with Tynisha Walker-Whitfield - REWIMD Jan 10, 2024

What is PPROM? Preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) is a pregnancy complication. In this condition, the sac (amniotic membrane) surrounding your baby breaks (ruptures) before week 37 of pregnancy. Once the sac breaks, you have an increased risk for infection.

Today’s guest experienced 4 losses, 9 IUIs, and 5 IVF transfers. Her most recent loss was due to PPROM and incompetent cervix of her son Gabriel at 19 weeks gestation. Her first loss was due to a left ovarian ectopic pregnancy, her 2nd loss was at 6 weeks with no fetal heartbeat, 3rd loss was a chemica pregnancy, and 4th loss was Gabriel. Tynisha has a story to tell about how much she and her partner spent in their journey to be come parents. Ty and her partner take us on the journey through ups and downs and discuss how they chose donor sperm, and why they continue on their pursuit to become parents.

In this episode, Ty shares how she used to be embasrrased to share her journey because non of her friends and family could relate. Ty and her wife share their love in this episode and how this podcast helped save their marriage. Its an emotional one because their love and desire to become parents radiates on screen.

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331 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Xenia and Sheldon’s Twin Miscarriage Story & Twin Parenting Journey with Nolan and Nash - REWIND Jan 03, 2024

Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Losing a child is the hardest thing a couple can go through. In fact 80 percent of marriages end in divorce after the loss of a child. For the month of December we are sharing the stories of 4 couples and how their marriages not only survived the loss of a child, but continued to thrive.

In today’s episode we have the Garrets. Sheldon and Xenia met in undergrad at Louisiana State University and began dating a little over 10 years ago. They were married in 2013 after completing grad school and moved to Houston a couple of months later. Sheldon is a Senior Business Analyst for a managed healthcare company in Houston. Prior to having our twins, Xenia was a Talent Acquisition Manager for a Restaurant Group here. They are the proud parents of Nolan and Nash (1 year old fraternal twin boys) and Cassius, our 3 year old English Bulldog. Prior to Nolan and Nash, they unfortunately lost a set of twins while they were 17 weeks along. It was the most devastating life event for their family and an adversity they initially struggled with overcoming. They are blessed to have their rainbow twin boys, as well as their angels who will always reside in their hearts.

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330 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Ivori and Kevin’s Loss Story and Loving Our Angel - REWIND Dec 27, 2023

Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Losing a child is the hardest thing a couple can go through. In fact 80 percent of marriages end in divorce after the loss of a child. For the month of December we are sharing the stories of 4 couples and how their marriages not only survived the loss of a child, but continued to thrive.

In today’s episode we have the Warren’s. Ivori and Kevin Warren have been married for 16 years and are a the mommy and daddy to an Angel born in heaven on August 21, 2017. Ivori is a creative entrepreneur and many times has some bright ideas, one of which is the Loving Our Angel blog. The blog is their personal journal about her and hubby’s journey to healing. Loving Our Angel is also a new initiative that has been added to their non-profit foundation to increase pregnancy and infant loss awareness. As a very private person, it wasn’t her initial thought to be so transparent, but as God did when she was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in February 2012, He is leading her to be transparent about their loss. Ivori holds degrees in both Psychology and Human Resources Management – and currently working toward a doctoral degree in Higher Education. Kevin holds degrees in both Information Systems & Science and Information Assurance – and currently working towards a doctoral degree in Applied Information System Management.

She is also a MOMpreneur – Creative Director of Ivori Nicole EventsTM, professor, author, speaker, mentor, Chief Operating Officer of the Warren Community Cares Foundation, and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. He is a United States Army Veteran, Master Rated 82nd Airborne Paratrooper, Chief Executive Officer of the Warren Community Cares Foundation, and active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. We reside in Northern Maryland with our two fur babies, Kole (the spoiled Pit Bull) and Kloe (the bossy cat). Here are the Warren’s.

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329 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Valencya and Jerrell Thompson’s Fertility Journey and Fertility Hope Ministry - REWIND Dec 20, 2023

Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Losing a child is the hardest thing a couple can go through. In fact 80 percent of marriages end in divorce after the loss of a child. For the month of December we are sharing the stories of 4 couples and how their marriages not only survived the loss of a child, but continued to thrive.

In today’s episode we have the Thompsons. Valencya and Jerrell Thompson are the founders of the #fertilityhope ministry. Valencya Thompson holds Master and Specialist degrees in School Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and has completed seminary studies. Jerrell Thompson is an engineer by trade with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. Considering their diverse areas of study joining their female vs. male perspectives, they have written a divinely inspired personal testimony that is an informative read that was written to help you heal as you read about their healing process from losing children preterm to birthing healthy children. In “Our Journey To #fertilityhope”, Thompson and Thompson candidly share about their experiences of tragedy & triumph on the road to birthing two children. This text is written on a down-to-earth level intertwined with scholarly-researched biblical scripture and medical commentary by Dr. Desiree’ McCarthy-Keith, MD, MPH, FACOG to encourage others who might find themselves on a similar path. In the frequent words of the authors, “Hang in there. Keep the faith. Don’t lose hope. Trust God. God has not forgot!” Here are the Thompsons.

You may order this book at www.writethevisioncreativeworks.com, just click “Products”.

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328 - Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Talysa & John’s Miscarriage Story & Helping Others through Connections - REWIND Dec 13, 2023

Can marriage survive the loss of a child? Losing a child is the hardest thing a couple can go through. In fact 80 percent of marriages end in divorce after the loss of a child. For the month of December we are sharing the stories of 4 couples and how their marriages not only survived the loss of a child, but continued to thrive.

In today’s episode we have the McCall’s. John and Talysa McCall have been married for 6 years and reside Camp Lejeune, NC. John is serving our country in the Marine Corps and Talysa McCall Talysa holds a MBA in Marketing from Southern New Hampshire University & currently works as a Community Outreach Coordinator for Lower Cape Fear Hospice. The McCalls have endured several relocations, a healthy pregnancy, a miscarriage that shook their marriage, and a devastating diagnosis during the pregnancy with their rainbow baby. Talysa aspires to one day start her own non-profit organization focused on instilling self-confidence & self-validation skills to young girls. Talysa believes her life’s mission is to help others through connections.

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327 - Remembering my Child with Alisha Reginal Dec 07, 2023

Today's episode is all about how to remember your child during the Holidays, but also all year long.

Alisha Reginal shares her stillbirth journey losing her first son at 36 weeks gestation. She left the hospital empty handed full of memorabilia but her heart was shattered. Alisha still doesn't know the medical reason for his death. She clung to her faith and tried again and shares her journey to conceiving her rainbow baby and delivery.

Alisha chose to remember her son Travis Jr. through her determination to give back to other families through her organization and website rememberingmychild.com. She shares how journaling helped her as she grieved and how it continues to help her as she parents after loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced loss and want to know how to remember and honor your baby during the holiday season and all year long.

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326 - Getting to Joy after Infertility, Stillbirth, and Parenting after loss with Tacole Robinson Nov 22, 2023

Today’s guest is a mother of 8! Yes, you read that correct she was called to this hood called motherhood. Tacole Robinson endured much heartache and disappointment while seeking to fulfill God’s promises for her to become a mother. She has 2 adopted children, 2 foster child, 2 stepchildren, and 2 biological children through IVF. Her ministry centers her children both foster and adopted medically fragile and healing and deliverance for those in need. She shares her story in detail in episode 299 so go back to listen or watch this episode.

In today's episode, Tacole shares her first book which chronicles how she got back to joy after her battle through infertility, stillbirth, and navigating adoptive children and parenting after loss. We discussed how to navigate the holidays and creating memories for your angel and most importantly how to get back to joy during this holiday season.

You can find her book Getting to Joy on Amazon.

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325 - Join the Sisters in Loss Grief Support Group with Erica M. Freeman Nov 08, 2023

Today's episode is a solo episode where I discuss what has been going on with Sisters in Loss behind the scenes and all about our grief support groups. In 2022, Sisters in Loss partnered with Postpartum Support International to host a bi-weekly grief support group for Black mothers who have experienced pregnancy loss, infant loss, stillbirth, miscarriage, child loss, and infertiilty. Our group named Black Moms in Loss falls under the support groups that PSI offers at postpartum.net. This group is peer led by Sisters in Loss doulas and other grief support workers. In 2023, we moved to weekly grief support groups through Black Moms in Loss and our weekly grief support group meets at 8pm EST every Thursday.

In this episode, I discuss why grief support groups are supplemental to therapy and other healing modalities, why you should join our weekly support group, how to join, and how to continue to support Sisters in Loss.

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324 - Why your VOTE matters for Black Infant and Maternal Health! Nov 01, 2023

You are listening to a special episode of the Sisters in Loss Podcast. As many of my US listeners know next Tuesday, November 7, 2023 is Election Day and Midterm elections, and we have the power to change and shift the paradigm of maternal and infant mortality in America with our vote. In today’s episode I sit down with March of Dimes President Stacey D. Stewart to discuss their Blanket Change Campaign launched on October 10, 2017, and why our vote matters in this election, why the maternal death rate is getting worse as technology advances, and how working together with March of Dimes gives all new moms a better chance to be there for their babies.

Stacey D. Stewart joined March of Dimes as its fifth President on January 1, 2017, and first African American President. In this role, Stewart heads the organization leading the fight for the health of all moms and babies. She is responsible for all aspects of the organization’s strategy, vision and operations. She has moved on from this role but her impact still lives on to saving the lives of Black moms and babies.

The maternal death rate in America has doubled in just twenty five years, and it’s only getting worse. More than 700 moms died due to pregnancy-related causes this year alone, making the United States the most dangerous developed nation to have a newborn baby. Women of color are most at risk of facing life-threatening complications, and black women are three times as likely as white women to die from pregnancy-related causes.

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323 - Deciding not to Terminate for Medical Reasons with Maria Okehie Oct 25, 2023

Today's episode is about deciding not to terminate for medical reasons. Many parents are faced with this decision once finding out their babies have abnormalities that will not give them the best quality of life. Today's guest Maria Okehie decided to keep her baby boy after being told he had a stroke in utero and had severe brain damage that he wouldn't make it through labor and delivery. Maria's son was born via c-section and he passed away less than two weeks after he was born.

In this episode, we discuss her first two pregnancies, this infant loss and why she carried her son to tern, his memorial, and having more children after her loss.

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322 - How the Pandemic encouraged this Angel Mom to cope with her losses with Henrietta 'Retta' Brown Oct 18, 2023

Today's guest has been through several losses. Miscarriage, chemical pregnancy, second trimester loss, and stillbirth. However, Henrietta 'Retta' Brown didn't really begin her healing or coping with her losses until the pandemic happened. Retta didn't really have any family or friends to help her through her journey and wished she did. She did have her rainbow baby girl who is now 7 and is now dealing with all of her feelings from her losses. Retta heard God say its time to help the multitude during the pandemic and she started to share her story in October 2020 via social media on Facebook and Instagram. She was nervous but she knew she had to do it to help others and to break the silence.

How many of us have pushed healing to the backburner as life happened? This episode is for you if you have not begun the healing process and to find out ways to start healing from your loss.

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321 - Recurrent Miscarriages and Finding Missing Pieces with Jamilah Robinson Oct 11, 2023

Today's guest experienced four high risk pregnancies and has two living children. Jamilah Robinson had endured recurrent miscarriages in between birthing her 9 year old son and her rainbow baby who is 3 years old. After the miscarriages she was told she was infertile. Jamilah underwent exploratory surgery and went through testing to quality for fertiliy treatments and a IVF research study. In the midst of the testing and research, she was able to conceive her rainbow baby naturally.

In this episode, Jamilah takes us through her journey to motherhood, recurrent pregnancy loss, surrendering hope to research through IVF, and how God blessed her with her miracle rainbow baby naturally.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss and are waiting for your miracle rainbow baby.

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320 - Pregnancy after Loss during the Pandemic and The Mom Bar with Dadriaunna Hayes Oct 04, 2023

We are kicking off Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month with all new episodes.

Todays episode is an update from our episode 153 guest Dadriaunna Hayes.

Dadriaunna Hayes lost her son at 24 weeks gestation due to cervical incompetence and experienced birth trauma. She went into pre-term labor and the hospital she was at did not have a NICU or Labor and Delivery center so she had to be transferred. Once transferred she endured a cerclage, 2 epidurals in 48 hours, allergic reaction to the labor medications, and ultimately birthed her baby boy who died shortly after entering into the world.

In this episode, Dadriaunna shared how she has birthed 3 babies during the pandemic and how her pregnancy after loss journey inspired her to begin The Mom Bar community and podcast.

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319 - Second Trimester Loss and Faces of H.O.P.E. with Nekia Mba Sep 27, 2023

Today's guest lost her son Anthony at 23 weeks gestation. She grieved and wished she had adequate resources to cope with this profound loss. Nekia Mba then welcomed her rainbow baby girl Victoria during the pandemic in March 2021. She had a redeemed experience throughout her pregnancy and an amazing delivery. Her and her husband were ready to try again and the unimaginable happend she lost another baby her daughter Genevieve at 18 weeks.

In today's episode, Nekia shares how she is coping with vaginally delivering 3 babies but only bringing one home. How she has turned her pain into purpose through her non profit Faces of H.O.P.E. How she desires to be a light of promise in a woman's dark days so she doesn't have to suffer in silence as she did. Nekia shares how she is called to instill hope, restore esteem and empower women of faith who have endured infant loss due to stillbirth, miscarriage, and other pregnancy complications.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced second trimester losses or recurrent pregnancy loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you have needed hope and encouragement on your trying to conceive journey.

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318 - Triplet Loss and Grandmother's Story with Alicia Harris - REWIND Sep 15, 2023

Have you ever heard the perspective of loss from a grandmother?

Today’s episode features the story of triplet loss of Alicia Harris grandbabies. She is joined by her daughter who both highlight and share their experiences of the journey to motherhood. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to hear the loss perspective of a mother and grandmother, how they overcame grief together, and how a rainbow baby grounded their mother daughter relationship.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep263

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317 - Expectful App for Pregnancy Loss and Trying to Conceive with Nathalie Walton - REWIND Sep 06, 2023

Have you practiced mindful meditation?

Well your time to do so is now using the Expectful app.

What is Expectful? It is the mentall health app for use before, during, and after pregnancy. Including Pregnancy Loss, Infertility, and Trying to Conceive.

In today’s episode, we have on Expectful’s CEO, Nathalie Walton to share how meditation saved her pregnancy, her transition into being an app user to now CEO, Black women in Tech and why this app is for Black women, and the evolution and future of Expectful.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

Download Expectful now!

Nathalie’s Bio

Nathalie is the CEO and Co-Founder of Expectful, a holistic wellness app for hopeful, expecting, and new moms. After recovering from a traumatic high-risk pregnancy, she left her career in Silicon Valley to create holistic resources for other mothers. Nathalie has an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and B.A. in Economics from Georgetown University. She is a Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneurs to Watch, and is on the Fast Company Executive Board.

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316 - PCOS, Infertility, and Trying to Conceive with Nkemka Egbuho - REWIND Aug 30, 2023

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder in women that is also the leading cause of female infertility. September is recognized as PCOS awareness month. PCOS is one of the most underdiagnosed diseases in the world, with less than 25% of women with PCOS being diagnosed.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with PCOS after experiencing a missed miscarriage. Nkemka Egbuho has been trying to conceive for 2 years battling infertility.

In this episode she shares how it hasn’t been easy to see others celebrating while she waits. Nkemka shares how she is preparing her body and mind for a IUI treatment with the hopes of conceiving this year.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever doubted yourself on this journey.

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315 - Missed Miscarriage and Fertility Treatments with Whitney McCoy - REWIND Aug 23, 2023

Have you heard of the term Missed Miscarriage?

A missed miscarriage is when a baby has died in the womb, but the mother hasn’t had any symptoms, such as bleeding or pain. Any type of miscarriage can cause shock, but a missed miscarriage can be particularly difficult because of the lack of symptoms.

Today’s guest experienced a missed miscarriage and has battled infertility. Whitney McCoy is a wife, mom, and business owner of beauty brand NoirGirlbyJWhit and is a miscarriage survivor. She went through 2 rounds of fertility treatments and IUI one that lead to a missed miscarriage. In today’s episode she shares her journey to motherhood, her missed miscarriage, and her beauty business.

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314 - Medical Negligence and Sebastien’s Smile Foundation with Audri Cabness and Family - REWIND Aug 16, 2023

Have you ever heard the perspective of loss from a grandmother, sibling, or cousin?

Today’s episode features the story of Audri Cabness’s son Sebastien who was fatally injured and died to due to medical negligence in 2016. This catastrophic incident let Audri and her family to start a foundation called Sebastien’s smile in his honor. Audri also has a family healing book called “Scootie Toots and the Feathers from Heaven” to help other families from parents to children begin to cope with grief that comes with child loss.

In this episode Audri is joined by her mom and cousin to share how the foundation was started, their roles in the foundation, and to share Sebastien’s story. This episode is special because you get to hear and see Audri’s mom and cousin and how they supported her through the loss of Sebastien and how they are living his legacy.

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313 - Loss and Overcoming Grief moving towards Healing with Turia West - REWIND Aug 09, 2023

Do you know what TFMR or Termination for Medical Reasons is?

Termination for Medical Reasons, or TFMR, is when a pregnancy is terminated due to a chromosomal, genetic or structural fetal abnormality, or where continuing the pregnancy would risk the health or life of the mother.

Today’s guest experienced 14 losses. Yes, this isn’t a typo. Turia West is a wife and mom and is still on the journey of healing from grief and profound loss. She gave birth to a healthy baby girl in 2008 and then went onto have a 16 week twin loss in 2013. This twin loss revealed the balanced chromosome translocation. This means that a piece of one chromosome breaks off and attaches to another chromosome. Sections of 2 chromosomes hence switched places. Turia has this same translocation and learned that this could potenitally lead to miscarriage up to 50%. Turia continue to try to grow her family and suffered more losses and miscarriages along the way.

In today’s episode, Turia shares her journey through IVF, getting an amniocentesis to confirm unbalanced chromosome translocation and being offered to Terminate for Medical Reasons (TFMR), but her and her husband decided against it.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced profound losses, TFMR, IVF, or want to learn how to overcome profound grief and loss and work towards your healing.

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312 - 6 Lessons Learned from 6 Years of Podcasting with Erica Michelle Aug 02, 2023

Do you know what today is? It is our Anniversary! Yes, our podcast began today on August 2, 2017 and we are celebrating 6 years of Sisters in Loss.

Today's episode is a solo episode where Erica Michelle discusses 6 Lessons she has learned in 6 years of podcasting.

This episode is for you to listen to if you are interested in podcasting and want to know how to invest your time, money, resources, and creativity into this amazing life changing medium.

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311 - Loss and Overcoming Grief moving towards Healing with Turia West - REWIND Jul 26, 2023

Do you know what TFMR or Termination for Medical Reasons is?

Termination for Medical Reasons, or TFMR, is when a pregnancy is terminated due to a chromosomal, genetic or structural fetal abnormality, or where continuing the pregnancy would risk the health or life of the mother.

Today’s guest experienced 14 losses. Yes, this isn’t a typo. Turia West is a wife and mom and is still on the journey of healing from grief and profound loss. She gave birth to a healthy baby girl in 2008 and then went onto have a 16 week twin loss in 2013. This twin loss revealed the balanced chromosome translocation. This means that a piece of one chromosome breaks off and attaches to another chromosome. Sections of 2 chromosomes hence switched places. Turia has this same translocation and learned that this could potenitally lead to miscarriage up to 50%. Turia continue to try to grow her family and suffered more losses and miscarriages along the way.

In today’s episode, Turia shares her journey through IVF, getting an amniocentesis to confirm unbalanced chromosome translocation and being offered to Terminate for Medical Reasons (TFMR), but her and her husband decided against it.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced profound losses, TFMR, IVF, or want to learn how to overcome profound grief and loss and work towards your healing.

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310 - 10 Years of Male Factor Infertility, Missed Miscarriage and Twin Loss with Senoria Cain - REWIND Jul 20, 2023

Today’s guest experienced secondary infertility due to male factor. Senoria Cain is wife and mom to a 13 year old daughter. She always knew her husband had a low sperm count and was able to see a urologist who recommended surgery to assist. After 10 years of no protection and experiencing secondary infertility she was able to get pregnant. At 12 weeks she was able to see the doctor for an ultrasound and found out she was having twins, but also that she was miscarrying them. Senoria had a missed miscarriage and took medicine to birth her babies opting out of a D&C. In this episode she takes us back on her journey to motherhood with her daughter, losing twins, postpartum recovery, cycle changes with grief, and moving forward with the possibility of trying again.

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309 - Miscarriage and Single Motherhood with Kourtney Mcgowan - REWIND Jul 12, 2023

Today’s guest is a doula, student midwife, and single mother who has experienced racial disparities in the hospital that has affected her and her son. Kourtney Mcgowan experienced a miscarriage after thinking she wouldn’t be able to conceive anymore children due to her endometriosis diagnosis.

In today’s episode she takes us back on her journey, the prejudice she faced, and how being a single mother is challenging, especially raising a Black son.

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308 - LGBTQ+, IVF, and 2nd Trimester Loss with Dr. Gloria Pope - REWIND Jul 05, 2023

The road to parenthood looks different for many of us Sisters in Loss. This can be especially difficult for our masculine presenting LGBTQ+ sisters. Today’s guest has experienced parenthood in many forms, from step kids, birthing her own with a sperm donor, IVF, loss, and a successful birth with her partner.

Dr. Gloria Pope began to document her journey through her partner’s fertility treatments and IVF loss experience. She realized the importance of sharing her perspective as a partner and documented this in her book Hero: Memoirs of Infertility.

In today’s episode, Gloria shares her different perspectives on parenthood including carrying her own son via a sperm donor, being a supportive partner to her wife who lost a baby at 18 weeks via IVF, and then having a successful pregnancy of her daughter through another round of IVF. She shares her journey as a part of the LGBTQ+ community, how she was treated while pregnant with her son, how she supported her partner through infertility and IVF, and how parenthood is shared between both partners.

This episode is for you to listen if you identify with LGBTQ+, want to hear the perspective of someone who has given birth and supported their partner through loss and IVF, and want to be empowered about how to combat systemic racism for those masculine presenting in our healthcare system.

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307 - Turning Child Loss into Sunsets with Ariane Oyere REWIND Jun 28, 2023

Motherhood is what today’s guest calls a “Rites of Passage” to the best hoods on Mother Earth. Ariane Oyere is a wife and mother of 7. She experience the lost of her 3rd born at 9 years old and then two miscarriages after his Sunset. Her babies she refers to as the Summer Solstice.

In this episode, Oyere takes us back to her greatest obstacles in losing her Sunsets. She reframes child loss and miscarriage into sunset experiences. We also discuss lactation through bereavement and other spiritual modalities for healing. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage or loss and want to learn how to reframe your thinking into naming them sunset experiences.

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306 - Termination for Medical Reasons (TFMR) with Hadeer El Hindawi REWIND Jun 21, 2023

Have you heard of the term Termination for Medical Reasons (TFMR)?

Termination for Medical Reasons, or TFMR, is when a pregnancy is terminated due to a chromosomal, genetic or structural fetal abnormality, or where continuing the pregnancy would risk the health or life of the mother.

Today’s guest was able to conceive her first child naturally and had a healthy pregnancy and delivery. The journey to baby number two has been full of loss and heartbreak. Hadeer El Hindawi had 4 consecutive losses including a miscarriage, TFMR, another miscarriage, and a stillborn full term baby. The last pregnancy was a frozen embryo transfer via IVF after being diagnosed with low ovarian reserve and her partner has high DNA fragmentation.

In this episode, we discuss how she has coped and grieved with secondary infertility and these consecutive losses, how she has hope, and how she is moving forward in spite of her current circumstances.

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305 - Miscarriage Survivor and the Power of Healing with Simbi Animashaun REWIND Jun 14, 2023

After having suffered multiple miscarriages for two years due to Fibroids, today’s guess used her faith and determination to heal from her losses and continue her journey to becoming a mother. Simbi Animashaun was determined to become a mother after her miscarriages and went onto have three children who are her rainbow babies. In today’s episode Simbi shares her struggles with pregnancy loss, being a miscarriage survivor, and how she leaned on God for understanding.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced fibroids, infertility, and painful periods and how to achieve health and wellness on your journey to motherhood.

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304 - Endometriosis, low AMH, Placenta Previa, and Filling Empty Wombs with Sandra Elidor - REWIND Jun 07, 2023

What Does Having Low AMH Levels Mean?

Having low AMH levels can indicate that your ovaries are producing less of the preantral follicles. This is important as the fewer the number of follicles there are means there are less that can be stimulated for assisted contraception.

Today’s guest suffered from endometriosis for 21 years before being properly diagnosed. Sandra Elidor also found out she had low AMH at age 30. With Endo she had two surgeries, 1 fallopian tube, 1 successful IVF cycle, and 1 miscarriage. Sandra gave birth to her son at 29 weeks after weeks of bed rest due to placenta previa. During her 2nd IVF treatment, she found out she was no longer a candidate for IVF due to her low AMH levels. After which she suffered a miscarriage.

In today’s episode Sandra takes us on her journey to parenting, how she started her non-profit Filling Empty Wombs on Clubhouse, and supporting other families on this infertility and loss journey.

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303 - Fibroids, Myomectomy, and Infant Loss with Oligohydramnios with Christina Danyo - REWIND May 31, 2023

Have you heard of the term Oligohydramnios?

Low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) is a condition in which the amniotic fluid measures lower than expected for a baby’s gestational age.

Today’s guest was preparing to conceive and had a myomectomy to remove her fibroids. Christina Danyo learned she was expecting after her fibroid surgery. During her 20 week anatomy scan she learned that her baby girl’s kidneys did not develop and was covered in cysts. Her daughter was diagnosed with Oligohdramnios or low/no amniotic fluid and her lungs also did not develop. Christina was faced with the decision with the diagnosis not compatible with life.

In this episode, we discuss the decision she and her husband made to carry to full term, she delivered her baby girl via C-section at 37 weeks, preparation for delivering a baby given a fatal diagnosis, and her time spent honoring her angel during her less than 2 hour life and beyond.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep249

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302 - Maternal Mental Health App Candle Lit Therapy with Lauren Elliott May 24, 2023

May is Mental Health Awareness Month!

Today's episode we discuss mental health and pregnancy with the new app Candle Lit Therapy. Lauren Elliott created Candle Lit to help new mothers, moms of very young children and future moms of color prioritize their mental health. In this episode we discuss Lauren's inspiration for starting Candle Lit based on her journey to motherhood, and how she desired to feel supported when she welcomed her first child. This episode is for you to listen to if you are seeking another form of therapy or coaching on your journey through loss and infertility and on the other side parenthood.

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301 - How to find Donor Sperm in Same Sex Marriage with Tynisha Walker-Whitfield May 17, 2023

What is PPROM? Preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) is a pregnancy complication. In this condition, the sac (amniotic membrane) surrounding your baby breaks (ruptures) before week 37 of pregnancy. Once the sac breaks, you have an increased risk for infection.

Today's guest experienced 4 losses, 9 IUIs, and 5 IVF transfers. Her most recent loss was due to PPROM and incompetent cervix of her son Gabriel at 19 weeks gestation. Her first loss was due to a left ovarian ectopic pregnancy, her 2nd loss was at 6 weeks with no fetal heartbeat, 3rd loss was a chemica pregnancy, and 4th loss was Gabriel. Tynisha has a story to tell about how much she and her partner spent in their journey to be come parents. Ty and her partner take us on the journey through ups and downs and discuss how they chose donor sperm, and why they continue on their pursuit to become parents.

In this episode, Ty shares how she used to be embasrrased to share her journey because non of her friends and family could relate. Ty and her wife Tori share their love in this episode and how this podcast helped save their marriage. Its an emotional one because their love and desire to become parents radiates on screen. This episode is one you should watch on our youtube chanel Sisters in Loss TV.

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300 - Permission to be FREE with Erica Michelle May 10, 2023

299 - God's Grace in Motherhood! Mother of 7 through Fostercare, Adoption, and IVF with Tacole Robinson May 03, 2023

How is this mother of 7 living her purpose through foster care and adoption ministry?

Today's guest is a mother of 7! Yes, you read that correct she was called to this hood called motherhood. Tacole Robinson endured much heartache and disappointment while seeking to fulfill God's promises for her to become a mother. She has 2 adopted children, 1 foster child, 2 stepchildren, and 2 biological children through IVF. Her ministry centers her children both foster and adopted medically fragile and healing and deliverance for those in need.

In today's episode, Tacole takes us on her endurance through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, tubal ligation, stillbirth, fibroids, and 12 years of infertility before having her first live birth and rainbow baby.

This episode is a long one, grab your snacks, and listen as Tacole shares her testimony to God's grace in motherhood!

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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298 - Unexplained Infertility and IVF Success with Rebecca Jean-Baptiste Apr 26, 2023

Today's guest credits the ERA test to her having her rainbow baby.

What is an ERA test? An ERA Test or Endometrial Receptivity Analysis claims to help women pursuing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) determine whether their endometrium is receiving an embryo at the right time in an attempt to maximize their chances of a successful pregnancy and live birth.

Today's guest experienced 3 miscarriages and was sent to a fertility specialist to understand why. She was diagnosed with Unexplained Infertility and decided to undergo fertility treatments. After two failed IVF embryo transfers Rebecca Jean-Baptiste decided to switch providers as she wanted more help and understanding about unexplained infertility. Rebecca's new fertility doctor changed her plan of care and treatment. She did the ERA test and her third round of IVF she was able to get pregnant with her son and carry her rainbow baby to term.

In this episode, we discuss how unexplained infertility is diagnosed, why switching doctors if we are not being heard is important, and her plans to continue to grow her family.

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297 - Pregnancy Safe Cosmetics with Asfhan Hussain Apr 19, 2023

Today's episode is all about what we put on our bodies and how it effects us in pregnancy. I sit down with Afshan Hussain to discuss about her journey with pregnancy safe cosmetics. She is the Founder of Sexy, Beautiful, Empowered (SBE) Mommas. SBE aims to educate mothers about harmful ingredients in cosmetics and bath and skincare products. SBE also provides safe cosmetic alternatives to empower the beauty within women.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have wondered about research around Pregnancy Safe Cosmetics, how to read labels on products, and how to continue to take control of your health journey.

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296 - Grieving Baby Loss with Dominique Simmons Apr 05, 2023

Today's guest experienced a 3 week loss of her baby and describes how traumatic it was to leave the hospital empty handed. Dominque Simmons shares how her journey to adopting a plant based diet helped her after experiencing reflux issues and having her galbladder removed. Her holistic diet ande supplements helped her conceive. Dominique decided to get a doula, midwife, then experienced a traumatic loss of her sister due to gun violence. This led her to change her delivery to a home water birth unassisted.

In this episode, we talk about her journey to becoming more healthy after having stomach issues, how she feared having children due to the maternal mortality rates, and how she grieved the loss of her baby girl at 3 weeks old.

This episode is for you to listen to if you are on the fence about changing your health to conceive, and for you to listen to as you grieve baby loss.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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295 - Miscarriage and Stillbirth with Ebony Canady Mar 31, 2023

Today's guest experienced a miscarriage at 8 weeks and a 26 week stillbirth. Ebony Canady shares in today's episode how motherhood has changed her in so many ways. After experiencing her 8 week miscarriage she went onto having 3 live births. Her last pregnancy ended with a 26 week stillbirth that rocked her world.

In today's episode, we discuss Ebony's journey to motherhood, her losses, her live births, parenting after loss and so much more.

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294 - 10 Years to Become a Mother after Ectopic Pregnancy Loss and IVF with Dyneco Gibson Mar 24, 2023

Today's guest battled infertility for 10 years before using a fertility specialist to conceive. Dyneco Gibson, experienced a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, and saw a fertility specialist to go through IVF and was successful at her first round. Tragically that ended in premature labor due to an incompetent cervix.

In this episode, Dyneco shares how postpartum depression showed up as she was trying to navigate trying to get pregnant again. She ended up getting a cerclage that yielded success and her being able to carry her rainbow baby to term. Dyneco shares the emotional journey of 10 years it took to become a mother for those who are in the struggle to let yall know you are not alone.

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293 - Pregnancy After Loss and Hannah's House with Jessica Weeks Mar 15, 2023

Pregnancy After Loss can be met with much anticipation, along with worry, anxiety, fear, and frustration.

Today’s guest experienced the loss of her daugther Emelia at birth, then experienced two miscarriages before having her two son’s. Jessica Weeks, our UK Sister in Loss, daughter Emelia was told she would not make it at birth due to being diagnosed at 20 weeks with spinal bifida and anencephaly. Parts of her brain and skull were missing and her spine and spinal cord had not developed properly. Jessica was told to terminate her pregnancy, but she persisted. Emelia was born and lived for 57 minutes and was perfect and a miracle.

In today’s episode, Jessica takes us back to that moment of losing Emelia, and how she had to share the news with her daugther Hannah. She realized it was difficult to share the news with Hannah and started her non profit organization Hannah’s House to help other families as they navigated pregnancy after loss and parenting after loss. Jessica went onto have two more boys with miscarriages in between those pregnancies and shares her pregnancy after loss journey.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a Pregnancy After Loss or currently trying to conceive.

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292 – Incompetent Cervix and Therapy for Healing with Sahmia Parks Mar 02, 2023

Today’s guest is a storyteller, writer, and photographer. She experienced a second trimester loss due to incompetent cervix of her baby girl. Sahmia Ase @sahmiaasephotography didn’t recognize the early signs of labor as it was her first pregnancy. She remembers having back pains but it never registered that she was in active labor. Sahmia was rushed into the emergency room due to her spontaneous labor and had her baby girl. In today’s episode Sahmia shares her birth and postpartum experience after losing her daughter, how therapy helped her reconcile her new journey as an angel mother, and how she navigated her postpartum body. Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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291 – Placenta Abruption and Shaniya’s Gift with Lashana Standard Feb 23, 2023

Have you heard of a placenta abruption?

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the inner wall of the womb before delivery. The condition can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients.

Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, belly pain, and back pain in the last 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Today’s guest experienced an unknown placental abruption and birthed her baby girl born still. She is a mother of 3 boys with a boy on the way. Lashana Standard, has been using her story to support others including starting her non-profit Shaniya’s Gift after her daughter Shaniya.

In today’s episode, Lashana shares her experiences birthing her boys, birthing her baby girl Shaniya stillbirth, and how she is navigating pregnancy again. Her non-profit Shaniya’s Gift is closing down, but you are still able to donate to help her support other pregnancy loss and stillbirth families.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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290 – Pregnancy Loss and Taking Control of your Health with Ghannika Dazilma Feb 08, 2023

Today’s guest never thought she wanted children until not being able to carry children into the world. Ghannika Dazilma experienced two pregnancy losses and went through the grief journey alone. After her second miscarriage she became upset with God because she thought there was something wrong with her. The second loss caused friendships to break, more anger and even causing family to push away.

In this episode, we journey through her motherhood after experiencing two losses and finding a nutritionist who helped her change her diet and improve her health. She took back over her health by eating clean, taking vitamins and minerals her body needed and added daily movement and exercise into her daily routine. Her body was a fertile ground and she unexpectedly conceived her rainbow baby. She shares her rainbow pregnancy journey and how she had to remove anxiety and fear and connect with her baby after 6 months. Ghannika also credits therapy to helping her heal and now raise her rainbow baby.

This episode is for you to listen to if you need that extra push to get your health on track for 2023. I know some of you may have fallen off, but now its time to get back on and take control of your health for you, but also for your future babies.

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289 – Second Trimester Loss, Failed Transabdominal Cerclage, and Trusting God Chasing Rainbows with Fernanda Matsinhe Feb 01, 2023

Today’s guest is from Mozambique, but resides in Cape Town, South Africa. Yes, we have Sisters in Loss on the continent y’all. She was diagnosed with PCOS and calls it a beautiful string of pearls on her ovaries, and is the mother to 3 boys in heaven. Fernanda Matsinhe, has experienced 6 IUIs, 2 IVFs, and 3 second-trimester losses (20, 17, and 19 weeks respectively). After her first two losses she and her partner decided to receive a Transabdominal Cerclage (TAC). Fernanda was hopeful that her next pregnancy would be her rainbow baby, but it was a failure as she lost her son at 19 weeks.

In this interview. Fernanda takes us on her journey through being diagnosed with PCOS, conceiving her babies through IUIs and IVF, and her failed transabdominal cerclage experience. She shares her pain and growth and how she is still chasing her rainbows. Fernanda shares her alternative medicine, meditation, and healing practices she uses to help her heal. She also gives back by using her voice to hold space for women in Mozambique who are going through infertility and child loss.

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288 - Stillbirth and Rainbow Baby on Autism Spectrum with Marjorie Vail Jan 25, 2023

Today's guest experienced a stillbirth at 27 and lost her son in labor. She went on to experience postpartum depression, but was determined to have another baby and continue her motherhood journey. Marjorie Vail became pregnant 2 years after her stillbirth with her rainbow baby and later found out he was on the autism spectrum. In today's episode, Marjorie shares her journey to motherhood, her stillbirth experience and postpartum depression and grief journey, and how not only advocating for her rainbow babies autism diagnosis led her to advocate for maternal health. We discuss her advocacy work as the co-director of awareness for PUSH for pregnancy ensuring the voices of BIPOC familes are heard. Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep288 Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below

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287 - Second Trimester Twin Loss, Infertility, Recover, Reign, and Arise with Seun Arise Jan 18, 2023

Today's guest experienced infertility on her journey to motherhood along with repeated early miscarriages, a second trimester loss, and nearly lost her life. Seun Arise, has made it her mission to help other mothers who have dealt with loss, infertility, abuse, and other challenges with the grace of God. In this episode she shares her journey to motherhood battling infertility, experiencing miscarriages including a second trimester loss, grief from losing her husband, and raising her rainbow babies.

This episode is for you to listen to give you hope on your journey to reign, recover, and arise from life's setbacks and challenges.

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286 - Grief from Child Loss and Infant Loss and Mothering Living Children with Jasmine Lashea Jan 11, 2023

Today's guest has experienced the inevitable of having a child die from drowning in a neighbors pool. Jasmine Lashea knows the feeling of getting a call during the Holidays that her son was missing. He was found unresponsive in a neighbors pool and this all happened during Christmas and New Years season.

In this episode, Jasmine takes us back to that day she found out her son had passed and the ongoing litigation around it. She also shares her grief journey as she also experienced infant loss as she began to grow her family after losing her son. Jasmine shares the pain and grief of parenting not only living children, but what its like to parent children in heaven.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced child loss and have an autistic child. This episode is for you to listen to and understand how grief transcends time even if you have living children.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep286

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285 - New Year to Blossom in 2023 with Erica Michelle Jan 04, 2023

Happy New Year 2023! I am excited to get behind the mic and kick off the new year with a solo episode discussing all about 2022 accomplishments and failures. In this episode, I deep dive into my personal development and growth in 2022, and share my 2023 word of the year. We discuss what's next with Sisters in Loss and what to look forward to in 2023 and how to stay connected to the community. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below

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284 - How to Move Forward After Loss? REWIND Dec 28, 2022

Today's podcast episode is all about how to move forward after miscarriage.

Rana Campbell host of Dreams in Drive Podcast who shares her miscarriage story and the cost of miscarriage from her feature in Elle. After her miscarriage in 2016 Rana found the hospital bills quickly adding up to the thousands of dollars even with insurance. In this episode Rana takes us back to how she started Dreams in Drive while grieving the loss of her baby, and how her feature helped her shed light on the financial burden of losing a child. Rana has since given birth to her rainbow baby. Congratulations Rana and thank you for sharing your story.

Crystal Justice found out she was pregnant on Aug 9, 2018. On Sept 7, 2018 she was told that the pregnancy was no longer viable. Despite my HCG levels and Progesterone levels being normal her D&C was scheduled on Sept 11, 2018 which is was her partner’s birthday. In this episode Crystal takes us back to that day and how her faith has helped her heal from miscarriage.

Sherita Thompson experienced a miscarriage while on a trip helping friends babysit and was devastated. She returned from her trip and realized she hadn’t prayed about it because she was angry and frustrated at herself. In this episode Sherita takes us on her grief journey towards healing, how her faith and prayer helped her conceive her rainbow baby a month after her miscarriage, and encouragement for those moms who are overwhelmed.

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283 - Transabdominal Cerclage, Infant Loss, and Maternal Mental Health with Sonya Gibson-Dixon Dec 22, 2022

Have you ever whispered to God "Why Me?"

Today's guest questioned God with tears in her eyes and lumps in her throat "Why Me?" God whispered back, "Why not YOU?" Sonya Dixon turned her tests into her testimonies now helping those who need support through loss. She was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and experienced a chemical preganancy, an infant loss, a failed transvaginal cerclage with cervical insufficency diagnosis. Sonya opted to have a transabdominal cerclage to grow her family and had her rainbow baby as a result.

In this episode, Sonya shares her strength through her transparency and promised to live out the memory of her daughters through changing lives by sharing her story. She founded Lend Now and supports women through their own reproductive struggles or losses.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep283

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282 - Near Death Experience due to Child birth - God Within the Lily with Shawnise Cantell Dec 14, 2022

281 - IVF and Maternal Mental Health with Karen Balumbu-Bennett Dec 09, 2022

280 - Infant Loss due to Placental Abruption and Uterine Rupture with Kimberly May Nov 30, 2022

Do you know what a Placental Abruption is?

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the inner wall of the uterus before birth. Placental abruption can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother. In some cases, early delivery is needed.

Today's guest experienced a placental abruption along with a uterine rupture that lead to her pre-term birth. Kimberly May lost her 6 day old son due to an overlooked placental abruption/uterine rupture. While she is still struggling with grief from this profound loss she shares her journey in hope to inspire others.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep280

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279 - Becoming a Mom after Miscarriage and Infertility with Colleen Turner McGregor Nov 16, 2022

A miscarriage is one of the most devastating things that can happen to a couple. You grieve and become fearful. Fearful that parts of history may repeat itself, the part where you lose your baby at 3 months old so you decide to not try again for another child. Yes, that part! But then, by God’s grace, you somehow got over your fears and are ready to try again. You tried and nothing happened, you keep trying, and still nothing. You decided to check with your doctor or even get a new doctor to find out what is happening. And then, out of nowhere, you get smacked with a curveball. That curveball for many women is the awful diagnosis of Infertility.

In today's episode, Colleen Turner McGregor takes us on her journey to motherhood with an infertility diagnosis and miscarriage and child loss. She details her journey in her book Becoming a Mom: A 14 Day Journey of Faith through Infertility and Miscarriage. We discuss grief, the fear of getting pregnant again, and battling infertility while having faith in God that everything will be alright.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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278 - REWIND - Endometriosis, IVF, and She Experienced with Sherelle Gilbert Nov 02, 2022

Have you heard of the term hydrosalpinx?

Hydrosalpinx is the blockage of a woman’s fallopian tube caused by a fluid buildup and dilation of the tube at its end. Most often it occurs at the fimbrial end of the tube next to the ovary, but it can also occur at the other end of the tube that attaches to the uterus.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with infertility after trying to conceive for a year. She underwent surgery for hydrosalpinx and possible endometriosis which resulted in removal of both her fallopian tubes due to damage caused by endometriosis. Sherelle Gilbert was faced with IVF being her only option for conceiving. She went through her first round of IVF that resulted in one normal PGS tested embryo. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic cancellations delayed the transfer of her embryo. Sherelle had a successful transfer and was excited, until she experienced a miscarriage at 7 weeks. In this episode, Sherelle takes us back on her journey through endometriosis, IVF and the costs, and her preparing for another round of IVF in hopes of bringing home her miracle.

This episode is a rewind episode for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, experienced IVF loss, or have had blocked fallopian tubes.

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277 - Why your VOTE Matters in Black Maternal Health?! Oct 26, 2022

You are listening to a special episode of the Sisters in Loss Podcast. As many of my US listeners know we are less than two weeks away from, November 8, 2022 which is Election Day and Midterm elections, and we have the power to change and shift the paradigm of maternal and infant mortality in America with our vote.

In today’s episode, a rewind episode, I sit down with March of Dimes President Stacey D. Stewart to discuss their Blanket Change Campaign l, and why our vote matters in this election, why the maternal death rate is getting worse as technology advances, and how working together with March of Dimes gives all new moms a better chance to be there for their babies.

Stacey D. Stewart joined March of Dimes as its fifth President on January 1, 2017, and first African American President. In this role, Stewart heads the organization leading the fight for the health of all moms and babies. She is responsible for all aspects of the organization’s strategy, vision and operations.

The maternal death rate in America has doubled in just twenty five years, and it’s only getting worse. More than 700 moms died due to pregnancy-related causes this year alone, making the United States the most dangerous developed nation to have a newborn baby. Women of color are most at risk of facing life-threatening complications, and black women are three times as likely as white women to die from pregnancy-related causes. Working together for #BlanketChange, we can give all new moms a better chance to be there for their babies.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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276 - Are you listening to Black Women in Maternal Health? Oct 19, 2022

According to the most recent data, Black infants are 2.3 times more likely to die before their first birthday compared to their White counterparts. Black American parents also experience higher rates of fetal and perinatal deaths, making Black families disproportionately more susceptible to pregnancy loss und bereavement. Bereaved Black parents’ ability and ways of coping with their loss is influenced by a multitude of factors such as the transgenerational trauma associated with 400 years of collective enslavement, poverty, and consistent discrimination in the educational, judicial, and health care system. Black American parents encounter specific barriers to receiving quality health care such as higher levels of medical mistrust, perceived discrimination, and poorer communication with their providers. However, little is known about Black parents’ perception about the impact of patient-provider relationships on their perinatal outcomes and bereavement journeys. This study aims to explore Black American mothers’ experiences of pregnancy, loss, and bereavement in relation to the health care system and their health care providers.

This is Erica's original research from her Master's program in Maternal Child Health. Listen as she presents her thesis "Are you listening to me? Patient Provider Relationships in Black Perinatal Bereavement"

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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275 - Sharing my Story at the White House with Vice President Kamala Harris Oct 12, 2022

In April 2021, Sisters in Loss founder, Erica Michelle, had the pleasure of attending the first Black Maternal Health Roundtable held at The White House by Vice President Kamala Harris and Ambassador Susan Rice. In today's podcast episode she is sharing this experience with you and what Vice President Kamala Harris asked her about being a doula and why doulas are needed.

Sisters in Loss Training Institute are opening the doors to our last live full spectrum doula training for 2022. This training is weekly on Tuesdays in November starting on November 1, 2022 at 7pm EST. Please register here:bit.ly/octdoula

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to hear more of the founder Erica Michelle's story and her journey of Sisters in Loss.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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274 - Resilience Rising: Stories of Miscarriage, Infant Loss, Infertility, and Finding Joy after Pain with the Authors Oct 05, 2022

More than five million people in the United States experience some type of infertility, miscarriage or infant loss. Although this type of trauma is widely acknowledged as something that affects millions of families, many families still feel ashamed, hopeless, and isolated. Resilience Rising is an intimate compilation of stories by families living with infertility who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. These are stories of families overcoming grief so deep and no longer being silenced by shame and guilt.

In this episode we sit down with 3 of the storytellers and authors that make up this anthology to discuss their process of saying yes to writing, the writing process, and parenting after loss. The authors Shantell Chambliss (Author), Courtney Shorter (Author), Ngozi Baker (Author), Donnisha Davis (Author), Michele Minor (Author), Tiffany Thompson (Author), Terika Williams (Author), Joi Donaldson (Editor)

Pick up a copy of the book here: https://amzn.to/3yhY64J

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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273 - REWIND - 10 Years After Infertility and PCOS having Miracle Babies with Lianne Totty Sep 30, 2022

After battling infertility for 10 years with Poly cystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS, today’s guest delivered her baby at 27 weeks, spent 6 months in the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and lost her baby. Lianne Totty, went on to have another baby at 25 weeks who also spent time in the NICU and is now thriving. Her experience led her to writing her children’s book “Baby went to Heaven” to help explain infant loss to children when her god daughter asked her where the baby was and she didn’t know what to tell her. In this episode she takes us back to being diagnosed with PCOS, getting weight loss surgery, NICU experience, and PTSD from birth experiences. We discuss about feeling like your body has failed you and that you are being punished by not being able to bring a baby home.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a long road to parenthood and want to hear hope and resilience on this journey.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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272 - REWIND - PCOS, Thyroid Removal, and Miscarriage with Sasha Palin Sep 21, 2022

After being diagnosed with PCOS and having her thyroid removed today’s guest knew there would be challenges to becoming a mother. Without trying Sasha Palin was able to get pregnant. Unfortunately at 7 weeks she began spotting and miscarried at 9 weeks. Sasha did not receive favorable care as a result of her miscarriage, no sympathy, being brushed off, and no one there to explain exactly what was happening to her body. She felt alone.

In this episode Sasha takes us back to those moments of pain of miscarrying at home, she shares what PCOS and thyroid removal and the miracle conception, and how she researched and learned to advocate for herself and is now becoming a Doula with Sisters in Loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced not being listened to or acknowledged during childbirth including miscarriage. This episode is for you to listen to if you are interested in becoming a Sisters in Loss doula.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

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271 - Expectful App for Pregnancy Loss and Trying to Conceive with Nathalie Walton Sep 14, 2022

Have you practiced mindful meditation?

Well your time to do so is now using the Expectful app.

What is Expectful? It is the mental health app for use before, during, and after pregnancy. Including Pregnancy Loss, Infertility, and Trying to Conceive.

In today's episode, we have on Expectful's CEO, Nathalie Walton to share how meditation saved her pregnancy, her transition into being an app user to now CEO, Black women in Tech and why this app is for Black women, and the evolution and future of Expectful.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/links

Download Expectful now!

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270 - PCOS, Infertility, and Trying to Conceive with Nkemka Egbuho Sep 07, 2022

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder in women that is also the leading cause of female infertility. September is recognized as PCOS awareness month. PCOS is one of the most underdiagnosed diseases in the world, with less than 25% of women with PCOS being diagnosed.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with PCOS after experiencing a missed miscarriage. Nkemka Egbuho has been trying to conceive for 2 years battling infertility.

In this episode she shares how it hasn’t been easy to see others celebrating while she waits. Nkemka shares how she is preparing her body and mind for a IUI treatment with the hopes of conceiving this year.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever doubted yourself on this journey.

For show notes go to sistersinloss.com/ep270

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269 - REWIND - From Miscarriages to Mobile App Poppy Seed Health with Simmone Taitt Aug 31, 2022

After experiencing multiple miscarriages today’s guest found herself on Dr. Google to find comfort. She found exactly what she was seeking an online doula board which inspired her to become a birth doula. Today’s guest is one of the 100+ Black women founders that have raised over 1 million dollars in capital. She has leveraged the power of technology to bring together womxn seeking emotional and mental health support during their pregnancy and postpartum journey together into a trusted and safe digital space.

Simmone Taitt is the Founder & CEO of Poppy Seed Health, is on a mission to bring together womxn from pregnancy through postpartum. After an isolating experience with her doctor, Simmone sought comfort and community. She quickly saw the lack of emotional and mental health support for womxn going through the life changing experience of having children and sought to rectify it. Her company is transforming the way care is delivered by providing 24/7 on-demand text access to doulas, midwives, and nurses — and it’s working, especially during the COVID era, when she’s seen a 140% increase in business. A sales, innovation, and growth strategy leader, Simmone spent 14 years building high growth startups before starting Poppy Seed Health.

In today’s episode we discuss the story behind her company, from the first product iteration to fundraising during a worldwide pandemic, her work as a doula, and how Poppy Seed Health mission goes beyond pregnancy including loss, grief, trying to conceive and fertility.

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268 - REWIND Women of Color App for Pregnancy and Postpartum Wolomi with Layo George Aug 26, 2022

Have you been searching for an app for your pregnancy after loss? Well there is an online app that is for you called Wolomi.

Wolomi is the only digital community that offers support to women of color to improve maternal health outcomes. Membership to Wolomi gives you access to maternal health experts, events, and a community of amazing women.

Today’s guest is Wolomi’s founder Layo George, who is a registered nurse and maternal health expert that is focused on guiding and supporting aspiring moms and moms-to-be to enjoy their pregnancy journey. In this episode Layo shares her inspiration for starting Wolomi, her personal journey through perinatal depression, and why Wolomi addresses maternal mental health at all stages through pregnancy and postpartum.

267- REWIND- Myomectomy, Transabdominal Cerclage, and Faith after Loss with Dr. Shabnam Brady Aug 17, 2022

ave you heard of a Myomectomy procedure?

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove uterine fibroids. These common noncancerous growths appear in the uterus. Uterine fibroids usually develop during childbearing years, but they can occur at any age. Women of Color have the highest occurrence of fibroids in up to 90% of black women before age of 50.

Today’s guest experienced an untimely loss at 22 weeks of baby girl Alexandria Shah due to preterm labor and cervical insufficiency. Dr. Shabnam Brady began to research for answers why and what could possibly have happened. She went to several specialist doctors and conducted months of research. She and her husband decided to undergo a myomectomy to remove fibroids and went to Chicago to undergo a Transabdominal Cerclage procedure due to her cervical insufficiency. Last Summer, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Shabnam for dinner while she was pregnant with her miracle Faith. In this episode, Shabnam takes us back to her making the decision for both procedures: the myomectomy and transabdominal cerclage, how her Faith after loss was during her rainbow baby pregnancy, and how therapy and mental health played a major role in her healing.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have considered a myomectomy or transabdominal cerclage procedures. This episode is for you to listen to on how to research your options and choose the best specialist or therapist for you after loss.

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266 - REWIND - Birthing Son and Losing Son on Same Day with Shana Anderson Aug 10, 2022

Imagine birthing your rainbow baby and losing your first born on the same day!?

Today’s episode is one that hits close to home as her story is very similar to my own. I would be lying to you if I didn’t say I cried throughout this entire interview and hours afterward. This episode is a trigger, so please grab some tissue, and brace yourself as you embark on this woman’s journey to motherhood.

Shana Anderson experienced a placenta abruption with her first born son Bryce, and he was later diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and chronic lung disease. She then went onto having a stillbirth at 34 weeks with baby girl Aleeya. After experiencing what seemed like a year full of hospitalizations with Bryce she planned a Make a Wish trip to Disney World and found out she was expecting her third baby. In June 2020, Shana gave birth to her rainbow baby boy Brayden, and later that evening her son Bryce passed away.

In this episode, Shana is raw as it is weeks after laying her son Bryce to rest. She takes us back to the day of great joy and deep sorrow of birthing a son and losing a son. Shana is taking it one day at a time and literally spoke life over herself, her womb, and baby Brayden as he was growing in her belly while taking care of a medically fragile toddler.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what God’s grace and mercy looks like on earth in the form of strength and resilience. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a placenta abruption, stillbirth, or pregnancy after loss.

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265 - 5 Year Podcast Anniversary! What's next with Sisters in Loss? Aug 03, 2022

On August 2, 2017 we released our first episode of the Sisters in Loss Podcast. Today, we celebrate 5 Years of this podcast and community.

In today's solo episode, Erica McAfee, Sisters in Loss Founder shares:

The History of Sisters in Loss
Black Maternal Health Crisis and Roe vs. Wade
Community Building in the last 5 Years
What's Next for Sisters in Loss?
Her personal journey and how this podcast saved her

This podcast is for you to listen to find out where Sisters in Loss is going in 2023 and beyond.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep265

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264 - Triplet Loss and Grandmother’s Story with Alicia Harris Jul 27, 2022

Have you ever heard the perspective of loss from a grandmother?

Today’s episode features the story of triplet loss of Alicia Harris grandbabies. She is joined by her daughter who both highlight and share their experiences of the journey to motherhood. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to hear the loss perspective of a mother and grandmother, how they overcame grief together, and how a rainbow baby grounded their mother daughter relationship.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep263

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263 - Medical Negligence and Sebastien’s Smile Foundation with Audri Cabness and Family Jul 20, 2022

Have you ever heard the perspective of loss from a grandmother, sibling, or cousin?

Today’s episode features the story of Audri Cabness’s son Sebastien who was fatally injured and died to due to medical negligence in 2016. This catastrophic incident let Audri and her family to start a foundation called Sebastien’s smile in his honor. Audri also has a family healing book called “Scootie Toots and the Feathers from Heaven” to help other families from parents to children begin to cope with grief that comes with child loss.

In this episode Audri is joined by her mom and cousin to share how the foundation was started, their roles in the foundation, and to share Sebastien’s story. This episode is special because you get to hear and see Audri’s mom and cousin and how they supported her through the loss of Sebastien and how they are living his legacy.

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262 - REWIND Sonhara Eastman’s Black Girls Guide to Fertility and Why our Stories need to be told! Jul 14, 2022

There is a new webseries that has been all the buzz on Instagram, and its called Black Girls Guide to Fertility, created, written, and based on Sonhara’ Eastman’s own battle with infertility. Black Girls Guide to Fertility tackles infertility in a profoundly intimate way that’s both dramatic and comedic without ever feeling rigid. It focuses on Ava, a 37-year old romance novelist, who faded into obscurity after finding love–and now finds herself on the rise again after self-publishing a diary detailing her fertility woes. Each episode is a recreation of Ava’s diary entry, adding a unique and compelling touch to the everyday struggle of infertility. I had the pleasure of prescreening the first two episodes and when I tell you, you do not want to miss this webseries. In this episode we discuss Sonhara’s vision, her personal infertility battle, and what is next with Black Girls Guide to Fertility. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below

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261 - Missed Miscarriage and Fertility Treatments with Whitney McCoy Jul 06, 2022

Have you heard of the term Missed Miscarriage?

A missed miscarriage is when a baby has died in the womb, but the mother hasn't had any symptoms, such as bleeding or pain. Any type of miscarriage can cause shock, but a missed miscarriage can be particularly difficult because of the lack of symptoms.

Today’s guest experienced a missed miscarriage and has battled infertility. Whitney McCoy is a wife, mom, and business owner of beauty brand NoirGirlbyJWhit and is a miscarriage survivor. She went through 2 rounds of fertility treatments and IUI one that lead to a missed miscarriage. In today’s episode she shares her journey to motherhood, her missed miscarriage, and her beauty business.

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260 - Loss and Overcoming Grief moving towards Healing with Turia West Jun 29, 2022

Do you know what TFMR or Termination for Medical Reasons is?

Termination for Medical Reasons, or TFMR, is when a pregnancy is terminated due to a chromosomal, genetic or structural fetal abnormality, or where continuing the pregnancy would risk the health or life of the mother.

Today’s guest experienced 14 losses. Yes, this isn’t a typo. Turia West is a wife and mom and is still on the journey of healing from grief and profound loss. She gave birth to a healthy baby girl in 2008 and then went onto have a 16 week twin loss in 2013. This twin loss revealed the balanced chromosome translocation. This means that a piece of one chromosome breaks off and attaches to another chromosome. Sections of 2 chromosomes hence switched places. Turia has this same translocation and learned that this could potenitally lead to miscarriage up to 50%. Turia continue to try to grow her family and suffered more losses and miscarriages along the way.

In today’s episode, Turia shares her journey through IVF, getting an amniocentesis to confirm unbalanced chromosome translocation and being offered to Terminate for Medical Reasons (TFMR), but her and her husband decided against it.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced profound losses, TFMR, IVF, or want to learn how to overcome profound grief and loss and work towards your healing.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep260

259 - 10 Years of Male Factor Infertility, Missed Miscarriage and Twin Loss with Senoria Cain Jun 22, 2022

Today’s guest experienced secondary infertility due to male factor. Senoria Cain is wife and mom to a 13 year old daughter. She always knew her husband had a low sperm count and was able to see a urologist who recommended surgery to assist. After 10 years of no protection and experiencing secondary infertility she was able to get pregnant. At 12 weeks she was able to see the doctor for an ultrasound and found out she was having twins, but also that she was miscarrying them. Senoria had a missed miscarriage and took medicine to birth her babies opting out of a D&C. In this episode she takes us back on her journey to motherhood with her daughter, losing twins, postpartum recovery, cycle changes with grief, and moving forward with the possibility of trying again.

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258 - REWIND - Trauma after loss due to PPROM and Inadequate Maternal Health Care with Kimi Farrington Jun 15, 2022

257 - Miscarriage and Single Motherhood with Kourtney Mcgowan Jun 08, 2022

Today’s guest is a doula, student midwife, and single mother who has experienced racial disparities in the hospital that has affected her and her son. Kourtney Mcgowan experienced a miscarriage after thinking she wouldn’t be able to conceive anymore children due to her endometriosis diagnosis.

In today’s episode she takes us back on her journey, the prejudice she faced, and how being a single mother is challenging, especially raising a Black son.

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256 - LGBTQ+, IVF, and 2nd Trimester Loss with Dr. Gloria Pope Jun 01, 2022

The road to parenthood looks different for many of us Sisters in Loss. This can be especially difficult for our masculine presenting LGBTQ+ sisters. Today’s guest has experienced parenthood in many forms, from step kids, birthing her own with a sperm donor, IVF, loss, and a successful birth with her partner.

Dr. Gloria Pope began to document her journey through her partner’s fertility treatments and IVF loss experience. She realized the importance of sharing her perspective as a partner and documented this in her book Hero: Memoirs of Infertility.

In today’s episode, Gloria shares her different perspectives on parenthood including carrying her own son via a sperm donor, being a supportive partner to her wife who lost a baby at 18 weeks via IVF, and then having a successful pregnancy of her daughter through another round of IVF. She shares her journey as a part of the LGBTQ+ community, how she was treated while pregnant with her son, how she supported her partner through infertility and IVF, and how parenthood is shared between both partners.

This episode is for you to listen if you identify with LGBTQ+, want to hear the perspective of someone who has given birth and supported their partner through loss and IVF, and want to be empowered about how to combat systemic racism for those masculine presenting in our healthcare system.

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255 - Turning Child Loss into Sunsets with Ariane Oyere May 25, 2022

Motherhood is what today’s guest calls a “Rites of Passage” to the best hoods on Mother Earth. Ariane Oyere is a wife and mother of 7. She experience the lost of her 3rd born at 9 years old and then two miscarriages after his Sunset. Her babies she refers to as the Summer Solstice.

In this episode, Oyere takes us back to her greatest obstacles in losing her Sunsets. She reframes child loss and miscarriage into sunset experiences. We also discuss lactation through bereavement and other spiritual modalities for healing. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage or loss and want to learn how to reframe your thinking into naming them sunset experiences.

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254 - Termination for Medical Reasons (TFMR) with Hadeer El Hindawi May 18, 2022

Have you heard of the term Termination for Medical Reasons (TFMR)?

Termination for Medical Reasons, or TFMR, is when a pregnancy is terminated due to a chromosomal, genetic or structural fetal abnormality, or where continuing the pregnancy would risk the health or life of the mother.

Today's guest was able to conceive her first child naturally and had a healthy pregnancy and delivery. The journey to baby number two has been full of loss and heartbreak. Hadeer El Hindawi had 4 consecutive losses including a miscarriage, TFMR, another miscarriage, and a stillborn full term baby. The last pregnancy was a frozen embryo transfer via IVF after being diagnosed with low ovarian reserve and her partner has high DNA fragmentation.

In this episode, we discuss how she has coped and grieved with secondary infertility and these consecutive losses, how she has hope, and how she is moving forward in spite of her current circumstances.

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253 - Educating on Fertility via TikTok from Embryologist Alease Daniel May 11, 2022

Are you following @aleasetheembryologist on IG and TikTok? Well if you're not you should. Alease has gone viral and has gained a following on TikTok for sharing education on working in reproductive health. She is an embryologist and everyday she works with Trying to Conceive (TTC) patients to bring peace of mind on their fertility journey’s.

In today’s episode we discuss how she has gone viral on TikTok, her passion for reproductive health and education, and how as Women of Color we aren’t taken seriously in White Male dominated fields.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to learn more about the IVF process, what an embryologist does, and fertility and reproductive education.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep253

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252 - Mother's Day is HARD! May 04, 2022

Mother's Day is HARD!

This upcoming Sunday and Second Sunday in May, the world stops to honor and celebrate moms around the world. Families splurge on greeting cards, flowers, gifts, fun traditions, and lavish meals to show the motherly figures in their lives how much they are loved.

I can’t think of anyone more deserving on Mother’s Day than a mother who had to give her child back.

Today’s episode is a solo episode and I share ways you can honor your angel this Mother’s Day!

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251 - Miscarriage Survivor and the Power of Healing with Simbi Animashaun Apr 27, 2022

After having suffered multiple miscarriages for two years due to Fibroids, today’s guess used her faith and determination to heal from her losses and continue her journey to becoming a mother.

Simbi Animashaun was determined to become a mother after her miscarriages and went onto have three children who are her rainbow babies. In today’s episode Simbi shares her struggles with pregnancy loss, being a miscarriage survivor, and how she leaned on God for understanding.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced fibroids, infertility, and painful periods and how to achieve health and wellness on your journey to motherhood.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep252

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250 - Endometriosis, low AMH, Placenta Previa, and Filling Empty Wombs with Sandra Elidor Apr 20, 2022

What Does Having Low AMH Levels Mean?

Having low AMH levels can indicate that your ovaries are producing less of the preantral follicles. This is important as the fewer the number of follicles there are means there are less that can be stimulated for assisted contraception.

Today’s guest suffered from endometriosis for 21 years before being properly diagnosed. Sandra Elidor also found out she had low AMH at age 30. With Endo she had two surgeries, 1 fallopian tube, 1 successful IVF cycle, and 1 miscarriage. Sandra gave birth to her son at 29 weeks after weeks of bed rest due to placenta previa. During her 2nd IVF treatment, she found out she was no longer a candidate for IVF due to her low AMH levels. After which she suffered a miscarriage.

In today’s episode Sandra takes us on her journey to parenting, how she started her non-profit Filling Empty Wombs on Clubhouse, and supporting other families on this infertility and loss journey.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep250

249 - Low Amniotic Fluid and Infant Loss with Christina Danyo Apr 13, 2022

Have you heard of the term Oligohydramnios?

Low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) is a condition in which the amniotic fluid measures lower than expected for a baby's gestational age.

Today’s guest was preparing to conceive and had a myomectomy to remove her fibroids. Christina Danyo learned she was expecting after her fibroid surgery. During her 20 week anatomy scan she learned that her baby girl’s kidneys did not develop and was covered in cysts. Her daughter was diagnosed with Oligohdramnios or low/no amniotic fluid and her lungs also did not develop. Christina was faced with the decision with the diagnosis not compatible with life.

In this episode, we discuss the decision she and her husband made to carry to full term, she delivered her baby girl via C-section at 37 weeks, preparation for delivering a baby given a fatal diagnosis, and her time spent honoring her angel during her less than 2 hour life and beyond.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep249

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248 – 2nd Trimester Loss at 19 Weeks and Wonderpuff with Jackie Morin Apr 06, 2022

Today’s guest knows what it feels to be down and depressed after trauma. This lead her to making cotton candy and learned to detach herself from other people’s pain, but also carry their spirits with me to rediscover joy by bringing it to others. Jackie Morin is the founder of Wonderpuff a small cotton candy business based in Durham, North Carolina. She and her husband began to expand their family and lost her daughter at 19 weeks. In this episode, we discuss how being black and Muslim played a role in her birthing experience, how she coped with the trauma of losing her daughter, and hope she has in her small business and growing her family.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep248

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247 – Ectopic Pregnancy, 8 Pregnancy Losses, and Hope to become a Mother of Living Child with Deze Mar 30, 2022

246 - Losing a Baby at 37 Weeks with LaQuasha Jarvis Mar 23, 2022

Can you imagine going through an entire pregnancy and losing your baby so close to birth?

Today’s guest experienced that and more. LaQuasha Jarvis had her first baby at 20 and 5 months later was pregnant with her second child. At 37 weeks the unthinkable happened when she lost her baby so close to delivery. In this episode LaQuasha shares how she fights daily through her loss, how she went on to have 3 more rainbow babies, and how she is turning her pain into purpose by becoming a Doula.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced loss in the third trimester and are holding onto hope for your rainbow baby.

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245 - Miscarriage and Adventures of Grief Girl with D. Anaya Mar 16, 2022

Today’s guest has been on a journey of grief. She experienced the loss of her first pregnancy with a miscarriage, the death of her eldest daughter, and in her final pregnancy another miscarriage.

Anaya shares in this episode how she has been on this journey of grief and tells her adventures exploring her grief as an artist, grief guide, and loss doula through adventures of grief girl.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experience a miscarriage and child loss.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep245

244 - IVF, PCOS, and Blocked Fallopian Tubes with Tanerra Willis Mar 09, 2022

243 - Surrogacy and Infertility and The Colorless Womb with Kimberly Gowdy Mar 02, 2022

After a long journey with infertility, today's guest shares her early struggles to conceive and carry a child to term, her journey in search of alternative ways to have a family, and racial and societal pressures of parenthood and love. Kimberly Gowdy experienced the loss of multiple pregnancies, and was in an unstable marriage peppered with spousal abuse and addiction. In today’s episode she takes us back on her journey to motherhood that was filled with loss, tears, doubt, heartache, and ultimate joy of remarriage and her rainbow son. This episode is for you to listen to if you have given up on hope on your journey to becoming a mother and need a hope lift and inspiration.

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242 – Double Uterus and Double Cervix and Hope Still Stands with La-Anna Douglass Feb 23, 2022

Have you heard of having a double uterus or double cervix? The term is Uterine didelphys is a rare condition that happens when you grow two uteruses instead of one. This happens when you are a developing baby. You are born with it. ‌ While developing as babies, girls typically grow a uterus from two channels called the Mullerian ducts.

Today’s guest was born with a didelphys uterus after 3 laparoscopic surgeries it was confirmed she also had endometriosis, fibroids, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. That did not stop today’s guest from trying to conceive. La-Anna Douglass began fertility treatments with drugs and still was unable to conceive. She decided to try IVF and IVF did not work for her leaving her depressed and heartbroken. In today’s episode La-Anna shares her journey to conceiving a baby naturally after 8 years of trying to conceive and her current journey through secondary infertility.

This podcast is for you to listen to to learn more about a double uterus and double cervix, but also if you have any underlying conditions like endometriosis, fibriods, and pcos.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep242

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241 - Ectopic Pregnancy, Fallopian Tube Rupture, and “Why did this happen to me”? with Ashlee Epps Feb 16, 2022

Have you heard of an Ectopic Pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy most often occurs in a fallopian tube, which carries eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. This type of ectopic pregnancy is called a tubal pregnancy.

Today’s guest experienced an ectopic pregnancy that was discovered during her first prenatal visit and would need surgery. The morning of her surgery date her fallopian tube ruptured causing internal bleeding and changed her. Ashlee Epps found out she was pregnant with her second baby after losing her job, being in law school, and her husband’s work hours being reduced. She was stressed with all that was going on in her life. After losing her baby she went through a “why” and denial period and felt very alone.

In today’s episode, Ashlee shares how her faith was tested after her loss, how she had to navigate through grief while being a wife, mom, and student, and how her healing journey has been filled with lessons of love and learning about herself.

Today’s episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced an ectopic pregnancy and if you have ever questioned why this happened to me?

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep241

240 - Endometriosis, Infertility, and Congenital Heart Disease and Infant Loss with Jamala Arland Feb 09, 2022

Congenital heart disease is a general term for a range of birth defects that affect the normal way the heart works. The term "congenital" means the condition is present from birth. Today’s guest was diagnosed with Endometriosis and after many years of fertility treatments including IVF her first child Jasper died in her arms 30 hours after he was born from congenital heart disease. Coping with the grief of child loss at the onset of a global pandemic has made, Jamala Arland passionate about supporting the community for bereaved mothers and normalizing grief through writing and speaking engagements.

In todays episode, Jamala shares her journey through endometriosis, infertility, and finding out how her son had congenital heart disease.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have battled infertility and infant loss.

Watch this episode here: sistersinloss.tv

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239 – Foster Care to Adoption after failed IVF with Juauna Lewis Feb 02, 2022

Not all fertility treatments end in success. Some end in undetermined infertility and unsuccessful IUI and IVF cycles. Today’s guest experienced unexplained infertility and underwent fertility treatments. After going through an IUI and 2 IVF cycles that were unsuccessful, she and her husband decided to take a break from fertility treatments and decided to adopt. The adoption process was an immediate success. Juauna Lewis decided to try another IVF round, but that was also unsuccessful. To continue to grow her family, she turned to foster care to adoption and added another two boys to her family. Juauna is now the mom to 3 sweet little boys who she considers the pot of gold at the end of her rainbow of failed fertility treatments and losses.

In today’s episode we discuss her decision to stop fertility treatments and turn to adoption, why foster to adoption is another option to growing your family, and how motherhood is not defined if you birth children from your body.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a failed IVF experience, are curious about adoption or fostering to adopt, and for inspiration that motherhood comes in many forms even if you don’t birth the baby.

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238 - Micropreemies, Infertility, and Preparing for next round of IVF with Diane Olusada Jan 27, 2022

Have you heard of the term micropreemie?

A micropreemie is a baby that is born before the 26th week of pregnancy or weighs less than 28 ounces.

Today’s guest is a mother of two an angel baby and rainbow baby both who were micropreemies born before 26 weeks. Diane Olusado combatted infertility with professional help for 4 years. After 7 failed IUIs and 1 failed IVF cycle she had a successful transfer and gave birth to her baby at 23 weeks and 5 days. Alayo died in the NICU after living for 9 days. Diane went onto another round of IVF that was successful and had her rainbow baby Iyanu at 26 weeks and 2 days and spent 108 days in the NICU.

In todays episode, Diane shares her journey through infertility and loss and how she is preparing for her next IVF or Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET).

This episode is for you to listen to if you have battled infertility and are also preparing for your next FET and IVF cycle.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep238

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237 - “There is nothing we can do” Miscarriage and Elijah Broke the Gate with Jessica Jackson Jan 19, 2022

There is nothing we can do” the 6 words us @sistersinloss dreads to hear. How many of us have heard “There is nothing we can do” after a doctor's appointment or emergency room visit?

Today’s guest experienced a miscarriage at 7 weeks and was told “there is nothing we can do.” Elijah’s passing was traumatic. Jessica Jackson could not comprehend that statement. She saw Elijah in a dream and writing became her grief therapy. “Elijah Broke the Gate” is a book of performance pieces based on true child loss, miscarriage, and regretted abortion experiences.

In today’s episode, Jessica shares her traumatic birthing experience of miscarriage and her inspiration for her book “Elijah’s Broke the Gate.”

Today’s episode is for you to listen to if you have ever been told “there is nothing we can do” and experienced a miscarriage or pregnancy loss.

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236 - From Miscarriages to Mobile App Poppy Seed Health with Simmone Taitt Jan 12, 2022

After experiencing multiple miscarriages today's guest found herself on Dr. Google to find comfort. She found exactly what she was seeking an online doula board which inspired her to become a birth doula. Today's guest is one of the 100+ Black women founders that have raised over 1 million dollars in capital. She has leveraged the power of technology to bring together womxn seeking emotional and mental health support during their pregnancy and postpartum journey together into a trusted and safe digital space.

Simmone Taitt is the Founder & CEO of Poppy Seed Health, is on a mission to bring together womxn from pregnancy through postpartum. After an isolating experience with her doctor, Simmone sought comfort and community. She quickly saw the lack of emotional and mental health support for womxn going through the life changing experience of having children and sought to rectify it. Her company is transforming the way care is delivered by providing 24/7 on-demand text access to doulas, midwives, and nurses — and it’s working, especially during the COVID era, when she’s seen a 140% increase in business. A sales, innovation, and growth strategy leader, Simmone spent 14 years building high growth startups before starting Poppy Seed Health.

In today's episode we discuss the story behind her company, from the first product iteration to fundraising during a worldwide pandemic, her work as a doula, and how Poppy Seed Health mission goes beyond pregnancy including loss, grief, trying to conceive and fertility.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep236

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235 - Gestational Carriers and Surrogacy Miracles with Shadina Blunt Jan 05, 2022

Shadina Blunt is a two-time gestational carrier, most notably for Grammy-award winning singer-songwriter Kandi Burrus and her husband Todd Tucker of the Real Housewives of Atlanta. Shadina came forward with her story along with the Tuckers, and is now known as the face of surrogacy.

Shadina released her first book in December 2021, a children’s book entitled Miracle Motherhood: Mary’s Gift of Life. This self-published, beautifully illustrated book follows two families whose chance meeting leads them through gestational surrogacy...and helps answer many of the questions children of intended families and carrier families tend to have about the gestational surrogacy process.

Shadina is passionate about gestational surrogacy as an option for families who cannot safely carry a baby. Shadina is also co-owner Surrogacy Miracles Consulting in Atlanta where she helps families navigate the complexities of gestational surrogacy. Her new non-profit is designed to help financially support families - especially families of color and same sex-couples- who seek gestational surrogacy to grow their families after suffering in silence after pregnancy loss, fertility issues, and societal stigmas and shame. Gestational surrogacy is not just for celebrities!

In today's episode we discuss her journey to motherhood, becoming a gestational carrier, her new book and Surrogacy Miracles agency and upcoming Brunch in Janaury 2022 in Atlanta.

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Click Here for her Brunch info.

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234 - All About Uterine Fibroids Dec 29, 2021

Today's episode is another throwback episode talking about Uterine Fibroids.

In today’s episode we have Fibroids Activist and Health Coach, Gessie Thompson who shares her Uterine Fibroid Journey and Eliminating Fibroids through Diet and Detox. Gessie Thompson is one of the 90% of Black Women affected by fibroids by age 50. She personally battled the epidemic for 14 years and the resulting infertility for 10 of those years to have her miracle baby Nia. Her grueling journey included 10 surgeries, five IVF cycles, a devastating miscarriage and even her heart stopping on the delivery table. In this episode Gessie takes us back on her healing journey spiritually and physically, we both share how our hysterectomy’s led to us eating a plant based diet, and how she is helping other women eliminate estrogen dominance and inflammation through her DetoxNow and Fibroid Elimination program.

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233 - IVF Success Story! How does IVF work? Dec 22, 2021

For December we are throwing back to some of our favorite podcast episodes. Have you ever wondered how the IVF process works? Is IVF for you?

In today’s episode we have Candace Farris who has been on her infertility journey for 10 years due to Uterine Fibroids. After a failed IVF in August 2017, having her mother pass away in the middle of her IVF cycle, she is currently 10 weeks pregnant from a successful 2nd round of IVF.

In this episode Candace discusses her journey to motherhood, having surgery to remove fibroids, her husband having surgery to help with sperm quality, and preparing her body for her upcoming embryo transfer. Candace had a successful embryo transfer and her daughter Victory is now 3 years old. She also discusses her vlog and youtube channel Fruitful Journey as she is documenting her entire story with us. This episode is for you to listen to if you are still in the wait for your miracle baby!

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep233

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232 - How to move forward after Miscarriage? Dec 15, 2021

All month long we will feature some of our favorite episodes around different topics. Today’s topic is all about how to move forward after miscarriage.

Rana Campbell host of Dreams in Drive Podcast who shares her miscarriage story and the cost of miscarriage from her feature in Elle. After her miscarriage in 2016 Rana found the hospital bills quickly adding up to the thousands of dollars even with insurance. In this episode Rana takes us back to how she started Dreams in Drive while grieving the loss of her baby, and how her feature helped her shed light on the financial burden of losing a child. Rana has since given birth to her rainbow baby. Congratulations Rana and thank you for sharing your story.

Crystal Justice found out she was pregnant on Aug 9, 2018. On Sept 7, 2018 she was told that the pregnancy was no longer viable. Despite my HCG levels and Progesterone levels being normal her D&C was scheduled on Sept 11, 2018 which is was her partner’s birthday. In this episode Crystal takes us back to that day and how her faith has helped her heal from miscarriage.

Sherita Thompson experienced a miscarriage while on a trip helping friends babysit and was devastated. She returned from her trip and realized she hadn’t prayed about it because she was angry and frustrated at herself. In this episode Sherita takes us on her grief journey towards healing, how her faith and prayer helped her conceive her rainbow baby a month after her miscarriage, and encouragement for those moms who are overwhelmed.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep232

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231 - How to Survive after Stillbirth? Dec 08, 2021

For the rest of December long we will feature and throwback to some of our favorite Sisters in Loss podcast episodes.

Today’s topic is all about how to survive after stillbirth.

We are featuring two of my favorite episodes of the podcast, Episode 5 with Diana Sims who shares her stillbirth story of son King, born at 36 weeks gestation, and her journey to rainbow baby Anthony.

In episode 162 of the podcast Shana Anderson takes us on the journey of birthing her rainbow baby and losing her son on the same day all while grieving her stillborn daughter. Shana is raw as it is weeks after laying her son Bryce to rest. She takes us back to the day of great joy and deep sorrow of birthing a son and losing a son. Shana is taking it one day at a time and literally spoke life over herself, her womb, and baby Brayden as he was growing in her belly while taking care of a medically fragile toddler.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what God’s grace and mercy looks like on earth in the form of strength and resilience.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a placenta abruption, stillbirth, or pregnancy after loss.

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230 - Twin Loss in the Military with Theresa Alexis Dec 01, 2021

Today’s guest motherhood journey did not start out as planned. She conceived two months after getting married with twins. Her and her husband were both enlisted in the Marine Corps and he was stationed in California while she stayed in North Carolina. Theresa Alexis woke up bleeding at 20 weeks pregnant and was rushed on base to the Naval hospital where they took their time to get her back and was told her twins had no heartbeat and hopefully, she wasn't as far along as they'd thought. In this episode, Theresa takes us back to the emotions she felt in that moment, how her husband flew back to her, and the military treatment received post loss with fear, anxiety, and depression. This episode is for you to listen to if you are a veteran and are currently enlisted in the military or have experienced a twin loss. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below

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229 - Stillbirth, Incompetent Cervix and Transabdominal Cerclage with Amina Lively Nov 24, 2021

Have you heard of the term transabdominal cerclage?

A transabdominal cerclage is a small, extremely strong, woven synthetic band stitched high on the cervix. This band supports the full length of the cervix and resists the pressure the growing fetus places on it. The band prevents the cervix from opening and losing the pregnancy.

Today’s guest experienced several miscarriages before giving birth to a stillborn son at 21 weeks due to an incompetent cervix. She went on to experience a few more miscarriages and went to a fertility specialist who recommended a IUI and a transvaginal cerclage when she became pregnant. Amina Lively ended up getting pregnant naturally with twins, but shortly after becoming pregnant she lost Baby B. They went forward with the transvaginal cerclage, but at 18 weeks she went into labor and lost Baby A. In this episode, Amina shares with us the birth trauma she experienced, how she researched a transabdominal cerclage and scheduled the procedure, and how she is hopeful and resilient to bring home a baby.

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228 - My Body Betrayed Me: Overcoming Fibroids, Endometriosis, and Ovarian Cysts with Tamara Hunter Nov 17, 2021

Today’s guest experienced her first loss of a blighted ovum that required surgery and then discovered she had fertility issues and began fertility treatments. She then experienced another miscarriage and had the baby at home.

Tamara Hunter learned from her fertility specialist/reproductive endocrinologist that she had thrombophilia, a blood abnormality, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and ovarian cyst. She decided to undergo surgery to strengthen her chances of conceiving with additional fertility treatments.

In this episode, Tamara shares how she perceived her body betraying her, the emotional and physical trauma she experienced, and how her infertility journey led her to become a Perinatal Mental Health therapist.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have fertility challenges and feel like your body betrayed you.

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227 - Surviving Infertility, Mental Illness, and Involuntary Hysterectomy with Vanessa Goodar Nov 10, 2021

Today’s guest had a daughter right after college then was married and struggled with infertility both female and male factor infertility. Vanessa Goodar experienced two failed IVF rounds, a failed insemination, and had an involuntary hysterectomy at age 37. These experiences caused severe psychological and emotional distress and she struggled with insomnia, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Her ex-husband placed her in a psychiatric facility for the homeless and uninsured due to systemic racism. Vanessa was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder and treatment. In this episode, Vanessa takes us back to her journey through infertility and how it triggered childhood trauma that resulted in her mental illness, going back to school to study psychology, and the Strong Black Woman syndrome.This episode is for you to listen to if you have struggled with mental illness, have fertility challenges, and are thriving. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below

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226 – Endometriosis, IVF Journey, and She Experienced with Sherelle Gilbert Nov 03, 2021

Have you heard of the term hydrosalpinx?

Hydrosalpinx is the blockage of a woman's fallopian tube caused by a fluid buildup and dilation of the tube at its end. Most often it occurs at the fimbrial end of the tube next to the ovary, but it can also occur at the other end of the tube that attaches to the uterus.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with infertility after trying to conceive for a year. She underwent surgery for hydrosalpinx and possible endometriosis which resulted in removal of both her fallopian tubes due to damage caused by endometriosis. Sherelle Gilbert was faced with IVF being her only option for conceiving. She went through her first round of IVF that resulted in one normal PGS tested embryo. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic cancellations delayed the transfer of her embryo. Sherelle had a successful transfer and was excited, until she experienced a miscarriage at 7 weeks. In this episode, Sherelle takes us back on her journey through endometriosis, IVF and the costs, and her preparing for another round of IVF in hopes of bringing home her miracle.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, experienced IVF loss, or have had blocked fallopian tubes.

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225 - Cervical Insufficency and Second Trimester Miscarriage with Nae Watson Oct 27, 2021

Have you heard of the term Cervical Insufficiency?

Cervical insufficiency (also called incompetent cervix) means your cervix opens (dilates) too early during pregnancy, usually without pain or contractions. Contractions are when the muscles of your uterus get tight and then relax. They help push your baby out of your uterus during labor and birth.

Today’s guest experienced 3 second trimester losses due to cervical insufficiency or cervical incompetence. She experienced her first loss at 6 weeks, another at 18 weeks, then another one at 6 weeks. Nae Watson wasn’t sure if she would ever get pregnant again and if she did she was hopeful she would bring a baby home. She was able to conceive again and was put on baby aspirin, progesterone, and had a preventative cerclage (cervical stitch) at 14 weeks. Nae’s cerclage was taken out at 36 weeks and her baby boy was born the next day. In this episode, Nae shares how she coped with experiencing multiple miscarriages, how the cerclage saved her son’s life, and how she is blogging about her journey to motherhood.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced miscarriage or cervical insuffiency and are interested in hearing more about cerclage.

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224 - Birth of Twins and Losing one Twin during Covid pandemic with Dominique Timmons Oct 20, 2021

COVID-19 has brought about a loneliness in pregnancy that has yet to be measured. Going to doctors appointments alone, via Zoom, and not receiving the same care priorto COVID has made navigating pregnancy difficult.

Today’s guest got pregnant with twins in Summer 2019 and had a healthy pregnancy until the 3rd trimester. They began telling her that Baby B was smaller than Baby A, but nothing to be concerned about as they were in two separate placentas and not sharing nutrition. Dominique Timmons had her 34th week appointment with the Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist and they suggested that she schedule her C-section for April 1, 2020. Then COVID happened and shut down everything where she had to go to doctors appointments alone. She went to her 35th week appointment and the doctor suggested steroid shots to strengthen the baby's lungs and to come back the next day for another round of shots. The doctor fell silent during the ultrasound and her husband was on facetime in the lobby knowing something was wrong. He asked the doctor if he could come back and the doctor said yes. The doctor broke the news that Baby B, their daughter Drew, heart stopped beating and she died. In this episode, Dominique takes us on the journey of extreme grief and extreme joy while she celebrates one baby and loses another on the same day.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know how it was being pregnant and losing a baby during COVID-19.

Listen to this episode here:

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223 - Uterine Fibroids, Endometriosis, and Hysterectomy with Dr. Katashia Partee Kendrick Oct 13, 2021

Do you know what a hysterectomy is?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the womb (uterus). You'll no longer be able to get pregnant after the operation. If you have not already gone through the menopause, you'll no longer have periods, regardless of your age. Many women have a hysterectomy. It's more common for women aged 40 to 50.

Today’s guest struggled with fibroids in her early 20s and had her first myomectomy, the removal of fibroids at 26. Dr. Katashia Kendrick quickly found out that fibroids could grow back and had another myomectomy at 36. Two years later her fibroids came back and she was diagnosed with endometriosis where she was always in severe, debilitating pain, blood transfusions, iron infusions (severe anemic) and no quality of life. At age 38 Dr. Katashia decided to undergo a hysterectomy and not have children naturally, but rather through adoption. In this episode, she shares how she made the decision to remove her uterus, the relief after, and her decision to grow her family through adoption.

This episode is for you to listen to and understand how someone would wrestle with the decision of not being able to get pregnant, and how fibroids and endometriosis does not define who you are.

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222 - Stillbirth, Postpartum Depression, Preeclampsia, and Serving in Pregnancy After Loss with Shanna Williams Oct 06, 2021

Do you know what Stillbirth is?

A stillbirth is the death or loss of a baby before or during delivery. Both miscarriage and stillbirth describe pregnancy loss, but they differ according to when the loss occurs.

Today’s guest experienced a stillbirth at 21 weeks followed by a missed miscarriage at 9 weeks. She became pregnant again and experienced anxiety, had an upsetting birth experience with her son and developed postpartum depression. Shanna Williams continued to grow her family by having another baby while her son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder at age 2. During that birth she secured a doula and midwife in an attempt to have a home birth, but had to be transferred to hospital care due to preeclampsia. Shanna focused on therapy work on maternal health and became a Doula and Lactation consultant to serve families in pregnancy and parenting after loss. In this episode, she takes us back to that moment when she heard her son didn’t have a heartbeat and what inspired her PhD studies focusing on Historical trauma, Black Maternal Health Outcomes and Pregnancy after loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth, postpartum depression, pre-eclampisa, or any trauma during childbirth.

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221 - Maternal Action Project in Memory of Dr. Shalon Irving with Bianca Pryor Sep 29, 2021

Have you heard of Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project?

Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project (DSMAP) is an Atlanta-based nonprofit created in honor of Dr. Shalon Irving, who passed away from complications due to childbirth and was a fierce health equity advocate. Our mission is to increase awareness of the Black maternal health crisis and develop and promote evidence-based strategies that improve health outcomes for Black birthing people and families.

Today’s podcast episode is in honor of Dr. Shalon Irving who died due to complications of childbirth told in memory of her best friend Bianca Pryor. Bianca has a passion for fighting equity and inclusion and has turned her pain into purpose after losing her best friend while giving birth to her daughter Soleil. Bianca takes us back to her own journey to motherhood and how she and Dr. Shalon was pregnant at the same time as she was 10 weeks ahead in pregnancy with her bestie. She shares in this episode her journey of delivering a 24 weeker, his NICU stay, and her getting that call that her bestie Dr. Shalon was rushed to the emergency room from complications after delivering her daughter Soleil.

This episode is for you to listen to if you are passionate about infant and maternal health. This episode is for you to listen to for you to hear the grief of a best friend and her fight to save other mothers from pregnancy related complications and death.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep221

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220 - Endometriosis, Failed IVF, Miscarriages, to Adoption with Candace Trinchieri Sep 22, 2021

Today’s guest feels like she has faced it all. From being diagnosed with Endometriosis and Fibroids. To battling this infertility with fertility treatments including 9 failed IVF cycles, two surgeries, multiple miscarriages, a failed attempt at surrogacy, one egg donor, and a successful adoption of a son. Candace Clark Trinicheri had many setbacks on her journey to motherhood, but she kept persevering. In this episode she takes us on her motherhood journey including surgical set backs, financial hardships, a non-responsiveness to stimulation drugs to the hardships of trying to find an egg donor of color all while dealing with the trauma of pregnancy loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have given up on hope on your journey. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced endometriosis, fibroids, failed IVF cycles, and want to learn about adoption.

Register for the Sisters in Loss Summit 2021 October 1-2, 2021 HERE!

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Ep219 - From Ectopic Pregnancy Loss to Breast Cancer Diagnosis to Mended Hope with Tiana Rogers Sep 15, 2021

After experiencing a spontaneous abortion and six months later being faced with another loss that resulted from a ectopic pregnancy and one less fallopian tube today’s guest was shattered and disappointed. Tiana Rogers grieved her losses and five months later after her ectopic loss she was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. There were no words to describe the utter devastation of being met with a cancer diagnosis in her early 30s with no family history and she continuously prayed and hoped for a baby. Cancer treatment and fertility treatments consumed her and her husband’s lives as the doctors were not sure whether she would need chemotherapy initially. In this episode Tiana shares how she grieved and turned to her faith to get her through fertility treatments and cancer. She shares how she did not want to risk missing the window to preserve any chances to have biological children so IVF was the natural next step before undergoing cancer treatments.

This episode is for you to listen to encourage you to continue your journey to building the family of your dreams through faith and with mended hope. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced ectopic pregnancy loss or a cancer diagnosis.

Register for the Sisters in Loss Summit 2021 October 1-2, 2021 HERE!

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Ep218 - Missed Miscarriage of Twins with Sibyl Lilly Sep 08, 2021

Do you know what a missed miscarriage is?

A missed (or silent) miscarriage is one where the baby has died or not developed, but has not been physically miscarried. In many cases, there has been no sign that anything was wrong, so the news can come as a complete shock.

Today’s guest experienced a missed miscarriage with twins after having three daughters. Sibyl Lilly has 6 children here on earth and 4 angels in heaven. After losing her twins to a missed miscarriage she became pregnant with a boy who was stillborn at 32 weeks. She was broken, angry, sad, and felt guilty as her faith was pushed to the limits. In this episode Sibyl shares how she conceived again and had her rainbow baby boy, after that pregnancy she suffered another miscarriage, and went onto having her final two rainbow twin girls.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced missed miscarriage or stillbirth. This episode is for you to listen to what it means to stay resilient on the journey to motherhood.

Register for the Sisters in Loss Summit 2021 October 1-2, 2021 HERE!

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Ep217 - Stillbirth and Living Healthy and Abundantly with Angela Hampton Sep 01, 2021

Do you know the symptoms of stillbirth?

Stopping of fetal movement and kicks.
Spotting or bleeding.
No fetal heartbeat heard with a stethoscope or Doppler.
No fetal movement or heartbeat seen on ultrasound, which makes the definitive diagnosis that a baby is stillborn.

Today’s guest experienced some of these symptoms going into her 7 month of pregnancy. Angela Hampton found out she was pregnant and that she needed to take supplements. She then started to celebrate her pregnancy by preparing for her baby. During her 7 month she became ill and took a few days off of work to rest. She went back to work and was talking with a coworker that she had not felt the baby move as much. The coworker recommended that she go to the OB/GYN to get checked out. Angela was sent straight to the hospital after that OBGYN appointment and they told her then that her baby had died and she would have to be induced. In this episode Angela takes us back to the moment she was told her baby died and she would have to labor and deliver them. She shares how she has started living life after loss healthy and abundantly.

Register for the Sisters in Loss Summit 2021 October 1-2, 2021 HERE!

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Ep216 - Placental Abruption and Overcoming Fear with Leslie Damper Aug 25, 2021

Do you know what a placental abruption is?

Placental Abruption is a serious pregnancy complication in which the placenta detaches from the womb (uterus). Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the inner wall of the womb before delivery. The condition can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients. Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, belly pain, and back pain in the last 12 weeks of pregnancy. Depending on the degree of placental separation and how close the baby is to full-term, treatment may include bed rest or a cesarean section.

Today’s guest experienced a placental abruption of her daughter. Leslie Damper found out she was becoming a mother in August 2020 and by November 2020 she was called home due to placental abruption. In this episode Leslie takes us back to the joy she experienced when finding out she was pregnant and to the day when she lost her baby girl. She shares in this episode how she overcame fear and weakness and how she is not giving up hope to become a mother again.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a placental abruption.

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Ep215 - Male Factor Infertility and Donor Sperm Aug 18, 2021

Fertility is not just a birthing factor, sometimes it is male factor. Male infertility can be caused by low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices and other factors may contribute to male infertility.

Today’s guest shares her story with male factor infertility, going through IUI which resulted in a miscarriage, and having her rainbow baby. She knew her partner had a high probability of infertility due to his medical history. They started trying naturally and were unsuccessful so they went to a fertility specialist. Then they were formally diagnosed with male factor infertility azoospermia with less than 5% chance of having natural children. They then moved to third party reproduction and decided on using donor sperm. They were successful with their medicated IUI that resulted in their first child. When they tried for their second child the medicated IUI was successful but it resulted in miscarriage at 11 weeks gestation. In this episode, we discuss male factor infertility, how to find donor sperm for black and brown people, and recovery and healing from miscarriage.

This episode is for you to listen to if you and your partner have been diagnosed with male factor infertility or are considering searching for donor sperm for people of color.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep215

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Ep214 - Fibroids, Myomectomy, and Miscarriage with Kima Tozay Aug 11, 2021

Have you heard of the term myomectomy?

Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids from the uterus. It allows the uterus to be left in place and, for some women, makes pregnancy more likely than before. Myomectomy is the preferred fibroid treatment for women who want to become pregnant.

Today’s guest experienced infertility and gave birth to her stillborn son at 28 weeks. Kima Tozay was diagnosed with Fibroids and endured a myomectomy surgery to remove her fibroids. She explored IVF that was unsuccessful and was able to get pregnant twice an early twin pregnancy loss and a 27 week stillbirth due to preeclampsia. In this episode Kima shares how she know helps advocate for those who have experienced infertility and pregnancy and infant loss and how she is keeping her son Jaxson’s memory alive by spreading awareness about maternal and infant mortality in communities of color. We also discuss her next steps on her journey to motherhood that includes fostering to adopt.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced stillbirth or fibroids and have considered a myomectomy to remove them. This episode is for you to listen to if you have considered fostering to adopt as an option to grow your family.

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Ep213 - Chemical Pregnancy Loss and going from Lawyer to Chaplin with Andrea Clark Horton Aug 04, 2021

Have you been told you need to experience at least 2 or more miscarriages before seeing a fertility specialist?

Today’s guest experienced that after going through a miscarriage, a chemical pregnancy loss, and another miscarriage the fertility clinic would determine there were no genetic abnormalities and nothing wrong with her remains. They suggested she lose weight and would run more tests after she lost half of the weight. Andrea Clark Horton didn’t make it back to the fertility clinic because she found out she was pregnant. After losing 30 pounds, she became pregnant, and she left her role as a Labor Attorney and went back to school to obtain a Masters in Divinity. Andrea birthed her rainbow baby boy and changed careers to become a pastoral care counselor and chaplain responsible for supporting women and families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss or illness and other chronic or terminal illness. In today’s episode Andrea takes us on her journey of miscarriages, D&Cs, getting the call from God to ministry and switching careers, going through divorce, and finding hope in helping others with her ministry All the Beautiful Pieces.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have been called to a higher purpose and have yet to surrender to this call. This episode is for you to listen to if you if you have experienced miscarriage or chemical pregnancy loss.

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Ep212 - 10 Years After Infertility and PCOS having Miracle Babies with Lianne Totty Jul 28, 2021

After battling infertility for 10 years with Poly cystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS, today's guest delivered her baby at 27 weeks, spent 6 months in the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and lost her baby. Lianne Totty, went on to have another baby at 25 weeks who also spent time in the NICU and is now thriving. Her experience led her to writing her children's book “Baby went to Heaven” to help explain infant loss to children when her god daughter asked her where the baby was and she didn’t know what to tell her. In this episode she takes us back to being diagnosed with PCOS, getting weight loss surgery, NICU experience, and PTSD from birth experiences. We discuss about feeling like your body has failed you and that you are being punished by not being able to bring a baby home.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a long road to parenthood and want to hear hope and resilience on this journey.

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Ep211 - Preeclampsia and Miscarriage and helping Melinated Moms with Jaye Wilson Jul 21, 2021

Have you heard of preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver and kidneys.

There may be no symptoms. High blood pressure and protein in the urine are key features. There may also be swelling in the legs and water retention, but this can be hard to distinguish from normal pregnancy.

Pre-eclampsia can often be managed with oral or IV medications until the baby is sufficiently mature to be delivered. This often requires weighing the risks of early delivery versus the risks of continued preeclampsia symptoms.

Today’s guest is a survivor of preeclampsia, losing 2 babies prior to the birth of her daughter. Her first loss was due to misinformation about preeclampsia and her second was due to severe placental abruption that almost cost her life. Jaye Wilson thought motherhood was not really for her and doubted her worthiness in self and in her relationship. After birthing her two babies she went through divorce and rediscovered herself in a new form as a single mother. This inspired her to create her organization Melanited Moms to inspire others to find their voices in their own motherhood journey.

In this episode we discuss preeclampsia, signs and symptoms of preeclampsia, how she found her voice in her subsequent pregnancies and after divorce, and how she is helping Melanited Moms around the world.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep211

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Ep210 - What is next for Sisters in Loss? Birthday and 4 Year Anniversary Celebration Jul 14, 2021

It’s My Birthday and 4 Year Podcast Episode! Today’s episode is a solo episode where I catch you up on all the things happening with Sisters in Loss and celebrating my birthday on July 17th and 4 years of podcasting on August 2.

In this episode we discuss:

-Taking a solo vacation for my birthday

-Recapping this year so far for Sisters in Loss

-What is next for Sisters in Loss? Our 2021 Summit and Retreat in 2022!

This episode is for you to listen to celebrate my birthday and 4 years of podcasting. Stay tuned until the end of the episode for a special message.

For my birthday I would love for you to leave us a fresh review on your podcast medium.

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Ep209 - Miscarrying on Vacation with Barakah Sahaiel Jul 07, 2021

Today’s guest became a mother at 19, and used her experiences to become a doula and fertility awareness method educator, and nutritionist. Barakah Sahaiel became pregnant and she and her partner went on vacation to celebrate this new journey. It was then she knew something was wrong and she began to miscarry. In this episode Barakah takes us on the journey of finding a hospital in another country, the language barrier, and how she honored her baby by taking them back home with her.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage.

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Ep208 - Miscarrying at Home with Abena Hill Jun 30, 2021

Imagine going to your first prenatal appointment to find out your body was beginning to miscarry.

Today’s guest found out she was pregnant and then began spotting before her first prenatal appointment. She explained to the doctors about the spotting and they performed an ultrasound. The ultrasound tech went to get the doctor to break the news that the pregnancy would not be viable. Abena Hill kept telling herself to be strong and brushed away her tears while in the doctor's office, but broke down crying in her car. In today’s episode she takes us back to that moment of hearing those words. There is no heartbeat and this pregnancy is no longer viable, she makes the decision to birth at home instead of a D&C, and discusses the obstacles she has overcome as a result of her grief.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever miscarried at home or not in a hospitalized setting. This episode is for you to listen to understand how grief shows up in our bodies after loss.

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Ep207 - The Baby I Prayed For, the Angel I Received with Christina Williams Jun 23, 2021

How many of us have prayed that Hannah prayer for a baby?

Today’s guest, experienced 4 miscarriages and one stillbirth and is on a mission to inform others of pregnancy and infant loss and help parents who have lost their precious babies. Christina Williams is a PAIL advocate and CEO of C.H.L.O.E. her non profit organization around pregnancy and infant loss. After experiencing her stillbirth Christina had a partial hysterectomy as a result, and in this episode she shares her experiences with her miscarriages, and her book “The Baby I Prayed For, the Angel I Received.”

This episode is for you to listen to if you have prayed for a baby and received an angel.

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Ep206 - When the Heartbeat Stops with JaRonda Dockett Jun 16, 2021

What happens when the heartbeat stops? What happens when doctors say “there is nothing we can do?”

Today’s guest experienced two miscarriages outside of the hospital one at a rental car facility and the other at home. JaRonda Dockett has Sickle Cell Anemia and was considered high risk because of the blood disease, being diagnosed with gestational diabetes and bacterial vaginosis when she became pregnant. She went to take her rental car back to the facility and miscarried in their restroom. JaRonda shares in this episode how she had to process her grief and learn her loss was a birth, finding out she was pregnant again and overcoming the trauma of her first loss, and miscarrying her second baby at home. She turns her pain into purpose by sharing her experiences in her book When the Heartbeat Stops.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have Sickle Cell Anemia, have been considered high risk, and want to know what do you do When the Heartbeat stops?

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Ep205 - Life After Loss with Theresa Mitchell Jun 09, 2021

When you suffer the loss of a baby there is no formula or checklist to grieve and heal. Grief is such a unique journey that presents itself differently in each individual. Life After Loss can be a roller coaster of emotions filled with anxiety, anger, sadness, and love frustrated.

Today’s guest is using her loss experience to bring light and truth to the struggles faced by black and brown women as they quietly struggle through miscarriage, infant loss, and infertility. Theresa Mitchell is using her story to create a documentary on Life After Loss and in this episode she shares how she suffered three miscarriages, had her rainbow baby, and discusses the struggles, complications, and inadequate care black and brown birthing people face in hospitals and wellness centers all over America and the world.

Today’s episode if you want to know how to navigate Life After Loss. Be sure to check out the show notes for a Free Downloadable Life After Loss guide HERE!

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Ep204 - Endometriosis, Education, and Advocacy with Samantha Sanders Jun 02, 2021

Endometriosis or Endo, as some of us like to call it, is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, often resulting in chronic pain and other symptoms. It’s not very widely understood, so seeing other people who understand it is like finding gold.

In today’s episode we are discussing advocacy around endometriosis. Today’s guest was diagnosed with endometriosis At the age of 24, Samantha Sanders @_samanthadenae_ was diagnosed with Endometriosis and has since began her mission to educate young ladies and women around the world. We discuss how Black people are less likely to get our endometriosis diagnosed, how doctors are less likely to believe us about our pain, and how Endometriosis can overlap with other conditions that Black people are more likely to have.

This episode is for you to listen to learn more about Endometriosis and how you can be an advocate for yourself and others.

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Ep203 - PCOS, Thyroid Removal, and Miscarriage with Sasha Palin May 26, 2021

After being diagnosed with PCOS and having her thyroid removed today’s guest knew there would be challenges to becoming a mother. Without trying Sasha Palin was able to get pregnant. Unfortunately at 7 weeks she began spotting and miscarried at 9 weeks. Sasha did not receive favorable care as a result of her miscarriage, no sympathy, being brushed off, and no one there to explain exactly what was happening to her body. She felt alone.

In this episode Sasha takes us back to those moments of pain of miscarrying at home, she shares what PCOS and thyroid removal and the miracle conception, and how she researched and learned to advocate for herself and is now becoming a Doula with Sisters in Loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced not being listened to or acknowledged during childbirth including miscarriage. This episode is for you to listen to if you are interested in becoming a Sisters in Loss doula.

Today’s episode is sponsored by AVA Women. Our listeners receive $20 off the AVA fertility tracker using code AVASISTERS. Go to avawomen.com and use the code AVASISTERS for $20 off the fertility tracker.

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Ep202 - Miscarrying Twins and Postpartum Depression with Shirley Hargett May 19, 2021

May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness month today's episode focuses on Postpartum Depression.

Postpartum Depression is defined as depression that occurs after childbirth. Those who develop postpartum depression are at greater risk of developing major depression later on in life. Symptoms might include insomnia, loss of appetite, intense irritability, and difficulty bonding with the baby. Untreated, the condition may last months or longer. Treatment can include counseling, antidepressants, or hormone therapy.

Today’s guest experienced Postpartum depression after having her first son and didn’t believe in it until it happened to her. Shirley Hargett did not know she was experiencing postpartum depression and was ashamed to get the help she needed. She showed up to her son’s pediatrician office for an appointment he did not have and they reached out to her OB/GYN to get the help she needed. After surviving through PPD Shirley went on to have another child, and experienced loss of a daughter and miscarrying identical twins in which she experienced postpartum depression again.

In this episode, Shirley takes us back to the signs and symptoms she experienced with postpartum depression, gives us the warning signs on how it shows up after loss, and grieving with PPD.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced Postpartum depression, loss, and want to know the signs and symptoms and how to seek help.

Today's episode is sponsored by AVA Women. Our listeners receive $20 off the AVA fertility tracker using code AVASISTERS. Go to avawomen.com and use the code AVASISTERS for $20 off the fertility tracker.

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Ep201 - Weight Loss, PCOS, and Jeremiah's Journey to Healing with Kameika Hinson May 12, 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a woman's hormone levels. Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones. This hormone imbalance causes their body to skip menstrual periods and makes it harder for them to get pregnant.

Since childhood, today’s guest knew that she wanted to become a mother. However, in 2007, she was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Tipping the scale at an alarming 419 pounds, her chances of becoming a mother were nonexistent until she decided to have bariatric surgery. In 2017, Kameika Hinson, became pregnant before losing her baby to a miscarriage. Although heartbroken, her calling from God to help others became clear.

In today’s episode, Kameika takes us back to being diagnosed with PCOS, how she made the decision to have bariatric surgery, the excitement of getting pregnant, and miscarrying her son Jeremiah.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have PCOS, have considered weight loss surgery, and turn your pain into purpose with a nonprofit in memory of your angel baby.

Today's episode is sponsored by AVA Women. Our listeners receive $20 off the AVA fertility tracker using code AVASISTERS. Go to avawomen.com and use the code AVASISTERS for $20 off the fertility tracker.

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BONUS Episode - COVID Vaccine with our partners Ava Women May 07, 2021

Today’s episode is a Bonus Episode where we discuss the COVID Vaccine in detail with our sponsor Ava Women.

We discuss with Brianna Goodale, PhD scientist and Managing Director of AVA-COVID. In this episode we share:

Guidelines and recommendations for COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant birthing people and those Trying to Conceive
How the COVID-19 Vaccine works
Existing data on how each vaccine has affected pregnant birthing people, their babies, and those TTC
COVID-19 vaccination while pregnant, breastfeeding, and antibodies affect baby
How black people and people of color being affected by COVID-19 and the vaccination efficacy

Our listeners receive $20 off the AVA fertility tracker using code AVASISTERS. Go to avawomen.com and use code AVASISTERS for $20 off.

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EP200 - Mother’s Day and Ways to Remember and Honor your Angel! May 05, 2021

This upcoming Sunday and Second Sunday in May, the world stops to honor and celebrate moms around the world. Families splurge on greeting cards, flowers, gifts, fun traditions, and lavish meals to show the motherly figures in their lives how much they are loved.

I can’t think of anyone more deserving on Mother’s Day than a mother who had to give her child back.

Today’s episode is a solo episode celebrating 200 episodes. I share ways you can honor your angel this Mother’s Day and my White House experience.

Our listeners receive $20 off the AVA fertility tracker using code AVASISTERS. Go to avawomen.com and use code AVASISTERS for $20 off.

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Ep199 - State of Black Maternal Health with Certified Nurse Midwife Taykia Sakina Ballard Apr 28, 2021

April is Sisters in Loss Infertility Awareness Month! All month long we will be highlighting infertility stories and journey’s.

Black Maternal Health week was April 11-17 and Infertility Awareness Week is April 18-24. This week we are talking about reproductive health.

Did you know that some midwives specialize in high risk births and pregnancy after loss or infertility?

Today’s guest is a Certified Nurse Midwife and founder of Sakina Health who partners with birthing families to inspire them to become savvy birthers. After spending nearly two decades as a midwife with nearly 1000 births in the hospital, birth center, and home, Takiya Ballard knows what it truly means to offer a unique type of healthcare that is unbiased and respectful in every way.

In this episode we deep dive into the State of Black Maternal Health, we discuss the differences between midwifery and doulas, her podcast The Savvy Black Birther, and creating the right birth team for us as black women.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to learn how to create the right birth team for you, the differences of midwifery and doulas, and how you can take control of your reproductive health.

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Ep198 - Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Missed Miscarriage, and Fibroids with Leah Forney Apr 21, 2021

April is Sisters in Loss Infertility Awareness Month! All month long we will be highlighting infertility stories and journey’s.

Have you heard of the term diminished ovarian reserve?

Women diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve have the same reduced success of conceiving with in vitro fertilization (IVF) as they do with natural efforts to conceive. In addition, women with DOR often have a greater risk of miscarriage when conceiving via IVF with their own eggs due to lower egg quality.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with diminished ovarian function after researching if she was a good candidate for egg freezing. Leah Forney had a missed miscarriage that led to having a D&C. After grieving the death of her fiance she realized her menstruation cycle was more frequent that once a month. Her OB/GYN told her she had a massive fibroid and uterine cysts that was contributing to her frequent and heavy menstruation.

In today’s episode Leah shares her journey to egg freezing and finding out she had 7 eggs left at 33 years old. She shares her grief from losing a baby, losing her fiance, and losing the ability to conceive naturally. Leah also shares her hopes in becoming a mother through IVF, donor eggs and sperm and adoption.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with diminished ovarian function.

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Ep197 - Male Factor Infertility, Ectopic Pregnancy, IUI, and Fibroids with Marsha Derice Apr 14, 2021

April is Sisters in Loss Infertility Awareness Month! All month long we will be highlighting infertility stories and journey’s.

Today’s guest and partner were diagnosed with infertility after trying to conceive for several months with no success and both decided to get check ups. She received positive results, but her partner had unfavorable results during his sperm analysis.

Marsha Derice found a fertility doctor and proceeded with an intrauterine insemination IUI that was unsuccessful. The IUI process was overwhelming and they decided not to try another round. She found out she conceived naturally after experiencing pain in her abdomen and the ER doctor confirmed her pregnancy and told her she was having an ectopic pregnancy. Marsha was immediately rushed into surgery to remove her fallopian tube.

In this episode, Marsha shares the emotional toll experiencing fertility challenges can have as a couple, especially seeing friends and family members having children, hosting baby showers, and feeling like something was wrong with her body. She finds out that she has a fibroids that are larger in size that will need to be surgically removed in order to continue with possible In vitro fertilization IVF.

This episode is for you to listen to if you and your partner both were diagnosed with fertility challenges, fibroids, and ectopic pregnancy.

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Ep196 - Unexplained Infertility, Miscarriage, Ectopic Pregnancy, and Journey through Faith with Sophia Campbell Apr 07, 2021

April is Sisters in Loss Infertility Awareness Month! All month long we will be highlighting infertility stories and journey’s.

A couple should go to a fertility doctor after trying on their own for twelve months, six months for women over 35, and undergo an investigation. There are standard tests for both the woman and the man.

Approximately 20% of couples struggling to get pregnant are told that they have “unexplained infertility“. After examinations and tests, the doctor states there is no known medical reason to explain why they haven’t conceived.

Today’s guest has been diagnosed with unexplained infertility. After 3 miscarriages, 1 ectopic pregnancy, failed clomid cycles, 2 fertility clinics to being diagnosed with '“unexplained infertility.” Doctors told her the only chance of her becoming a mother was through In vitro fertilization or IVF.

Sophia Campbell’s journey to motherhood required her unlearning past hurts and traumas and conquering infertility by faith to have her miracle daughter. In this episode Sophia shares her journey to taking back control of her life after loss and how she is on the mission to remove the stigma, to provide the education for women to feel supported and process the roller coaster of emotions,-guilt, shame, fear, anger, frustration and to provide a safe space and community for women to share more and learn from each other.

Today’s episode is for you if you have been diagnosed with unexplained infertility. Today’s episode is for you to listen to if you want encouragement to fearlessly go after your dream of becoming a mom.

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Ep195 - Intrauterine Growth Retardation, Endometriosis and Infant Loss with Keisha Jones Mar 31, 2021

Have you heard of IUGR Intrauterine Growth Retardation?IUGR is a term that's used to describe a baby who isn't growing as quickly as he should be inside the womb. Officially, it's defined as an estimated weight below the 10th percentile for gestational age (i.e., the stage of the pregnancy). Any baby who is smaller than normal can be diagnosed with the condition.

Causes of intrauterine growth restriction vary but include placenta abnormalities, high blood pressure in the mother, infections, and smoking or alcohol abuse.

With this condition, a baby is born weighing less than 90 percent of other babies at the same gestational age.

Ultrasounds during pregnancy help monitor a baby's weight. Depending on the results, the baby may need to be delivered early.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with Endometriosis when she was 19 years old and became pregnant at 23. She dealt with cervical insufficiency and IUGR and her daughter was born at 34 weeks with stomach ulcers and didn’t survive. Keisha Jones was determined to become a mother at 31 and after a year with no result sought the help of a fertility specialist. She did not have insurance at the time and no savings to cover the large expense of IVF. Her state offered a study to cover 90% of the cost of IVF and she became pregnant after two mini rounds. Keisha made it to 23 weeks into that pregnancy before she lost that baby. She found a company that would cover the costs of IVF and tried again at 35 years old. Keisha gave birth to her third daughter at 36 weeks after suffering from severe preeclampsia during my pregnancy.

In this episode Keisha shares her endometriosis journey and journey through IVF, she shares how to find a study that could cover the cost of IVF or IUI, and how she is supporting parents through infertility in her new support group.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have Endometriosis, experienced an infant loss, or explored and want to learn more about cost options for IVF.

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Ep194 - Cervical Insufficiency, Stillbirth, and Bedrest with Dorienna Alfred Mar 24, 2021

Have you heard of Cervical Insufficiency?

Cervical insufficiency is painless opening of the cervix that results in delivery of the baby during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Connective tissue disorders that are present at birth and injuries can make tissues of the cervix weak. When the cervix is weak, the baby may be delivered too early.

Today’s guest experienced a stillbirth at 19 weeks due to cervical insufficiency and a birth defect. Dorienna Alfred’s first pregnancy ended in an early miscarriage and since miscarriage is so common she did not anticipate any difficulties moving forward with her journey to motherhood. Her second pregnancy was a stillbirth at 19 weeks and in working with maternal fetal health specialists, getting an autopsy, they learned that their son Joshua had a birth defect and she had cervical insufficiency. Dorienna went on to have two subsequent pregnancies where she was placed on bed rest for the majority of the pregnancy and during her third pregnancy was on bed rest in the hospital for 14 weeks.

In this episode, Dorienna shares how her rainbow baby pregnancies inspired her to write a book dedicated to experience, how she even as a psychologist did not understand birth trauma of what she experienced, and how her new practice as a therapist focuses on perinatal mental health.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth, birth trauma or cervical insufficiency. This episode is for you to listen to if you are a therapist and experienced miscarriage or infant loss.

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Ep193 - Molar Pregnancy, PCOS, to IVF Success with Brittney Cain Mar 17, 2021

Have you heard of a Molar Pregnancy?A molar pregnancy occurs when the placenta doesn't develop normally. Instead, a tumor forms in the uterus and causes the placenta to become a mass of fluid-filled sacs, also called cysts. About 1 in every 1,000 pregnancies (0.1 percent) is a molar pregnancy.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with PCOS and experienced a chemical pregnancy and untimely loss. After she switched providers they determined IVF would be the best option to grow her family. Brittney Cain went through mental health challenges due to the ups and downs of the IVF process especially after getting pregnant during her first round of IVF and it resulting in a molar pregnancy.

In this episode, Brittney shares her experience with IVF and switching fertility specialists that she felt safe with, undergoing a frozen embryo transfer and uncomplicated pregnancy with her rainbow baby, and pregnancy after loss with induction and C-section.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a molar or chemical pregnancy or IVF. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know when is the right time to switch providers for the best outcome for you and your baby.

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Ep192 - Twin Loss and Pain After Loss with Marie Carmel Bien-Aime Mar 10, 2021

Was it difficult for you to see other pregnancies after your loss?

Dealing with Pregnancy envy is a normal emotion especially after your miscarriage, infant or child loss, or infertility journey. You're not a bad person, friend, or relative for feeling pangs of jealousy.

Understanding the underlying thoughts that feed into jealous feelings may help you understand yourself better and even reduce these uncomfortable feelings.

Today’s guest did exactly that after experiencing the loss of twins at 20 weeks. Marie Carmel Bien-Aime has a 18 year old and 7 year old who were both born prematurely. In 2016 she conceived twins naturally and at the 5 month ultrasound to confirm the genders the ultrasound technician stopped talking. This is when Marie knew something was wrong. The doctor comes in and says that she is already dilated and offered her a cerclage to prolong the pregnancy.

In this episode she takes us back to the time leading up to her untimely losses, how she had to make a decision to deliver her babies with no fluid, and waking up empty to no babies due to hemorrhaging when delivering the placenta.

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Ep191 - Miscarriage due to Fibroids and IVF Journey with Shashawn Dublin Mar 03, 2021

Women with fibroids are much more likely to miscarry during early pregnancy than women without them (14% vs. 7.6%). And if you have multiple or very large fibroids, your chances go up even more.

Today’s guest experienced a miscarriage due to fibroids. With this history and due to her age of 42 she went on to seek a fertility specialist. Shashawn Dublin was recommended to complete IVF and during her first try she became pregnant with twins a boy and a girl. She then experienced excessive bleeding and was rushed to the Emergency Room where they determined she was in labor and began dilation. She lost her twins at 23 weeks and was devastated.

In this episode, Shashawn takes us back on her journey to motherhood, how she is moving forward with her journey to motherhood, and turning her pain into purpose by starting an organization around donor eggs and options to grow families.

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Ep190 - Questioning your faith in God for Child Loss with Mashira Taylor Feb 24, 2021

Can you imagine losing your toddler in front of your other older children?

Today’s guest experienced the trauma and pain of losing her 3 year old son to a massive heart attack while her other children were in the room. Mashira Taylor’s son Max had heart issues when he was born that eventually had open heart surgery to correct these issues. Her children were outside playing and her son was indoors because his stomach ached. He told her he felt like he was going to throw up before he passed away from a massive heart attack which looked like a seizure.

In this episode and Surviving Loss series she shares how she questioned God throughout the entire process of losing her son. How she had to explain that her son passed away to her other children, and how she is surviving after loss by starting a non-profit foundation for those going through the grieving process.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever questioned your faith in God on your loss journey. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a child loss.

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Ep189 - Ambiguous Loss & Grief after Child Loss with Alshante Squire Feb 17, 2021

Have you heard of the term Ambiguous Loss?Ambiguous loss is a loss that occurs without closure or clear understanding. This kind of loss leaves a person searching for answers, and thus complicates and delays the process of grieving, and often results in unresolved grief.Today’s guest experienced an elective termination in her twenties after healing and working through childhood trauma she convinced herself she didn’t want children. Alshante Squire then found love in a same sex relationship where her partner went through treatment and found out she was pregnant. She was excited until her partner broke up unexpectedly and wanted to raise their child without her. Alshante found herself faced with ambiguous grief and loss of a child, a rainbow baby, she wanted but could not be a part of their life due to legalities of parenthood. She went on to become a single mom by choice by undergoing removal of polyps to get pregnant. Alshante did get pregnant and lost that baby at around 6 weeks gestation. In this episode she takes us back on her journey to parenthood and her hopes to have her rainbow baby as a single mom by choice.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced any form of ambiguous loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you are still waiting for your rainbow baby.

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Ep188 - Donor Eggs for Fertility Journey with Fairfax EggBank and Teri Y. Reaves Feb 10, 2021

Have you considered donor eggs for your fertility journey? This podcast is in partnership with Fairfax Eggbank.

Many couples have to turn to using donor eggs after spending years going through fertility treatments and many use Fairfax Eggbank to continue on their journey to parenthood.

Fairfax EggBank is a leader in advanced techniques for frozen donor eggs. Their premier donor database showcases our diverse selection of highly screened and vetted egg donors, with detailed profiles on all of the donors, so intended parents can really get to know their perspective donors.

Fairfax EggBank’s vitrification (freezing) and warming techniques were developed by our experts, who have been leaders in gamete freezing for more than 30 years. We work closely with over 300 clinics in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, and the Caribbean on the proper technique for warming our frozen oocytes, to provide the best outcomes for our intended parents.

Today’s guest is Teri Y. Reaves, the Director of Client Relations for Fairfax Eggbank. In this role, she is responsible for the oversight, strategy and development of the Client Relations team which works directly with intended parents and the company’s 300+ IVF clinic partners.

In this episode we discuss:

What are the benefits of choosing frozen donor eggs over fresh donor eggs?
African American and People of Color using donor eggs and “cost” being a factor.
How much does it cost to buy frozen donor eggs?
Information around preserving fertility.
How to choose the right clinic for you?
Can you use insurance to buy frozen donor eggs?
Single motherhood and using donor eggs or sperm to complete family

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Ep187 - Surviving Miscarriage and Infant Loss with Siedah Fagan Feb 03, 2021

Have you experienced a miscarriage after your rainbow baby?

Today’s guest experienced a miscarriage in 2015, gave birth to her son in 2016 and he passed away 11 days after his birth due to lack of oxygen and severe brain damage. Siedah Fagan went onto survive pregnancy loss by trying to conceive her rainbow baby and gave birth in 2017 only to be faced with another untimely loss by miscarriage in 2019. In this episode and Surviving Pregnancy Loss series Siedah shares her journey of surviving pregnancy loss and losing an infant, the courage to try again and have her rainbow baby, and experiencing another loss after her rainbow baby.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage after your rainbow baby. This episode is for you to listen to on how to survive miscarriage and infant loss.

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Ep186 - Navigating the Waters of Loss with Xaviera Bell Jan 27, 2021

How many of us have heard the words “There is nothing we can do?” How do you navigate this journey post loss? Is this journey linear or does it take twists and turns?

Today’s guest shares her journey with losing her son due to cervical insufficiency and how she is surviving loss. Xaviera “Zay” Bell shares in our Surviving Pregnancy Loss series her miscarriages, and loss of son Xander at 21 weeks, and how her journey of survival after loss has been intentional and strategic. In this episode she shares how she is navigating this journey after loss by intentionally growing in her purpose, starting her foundation Zeal of Xander in honor of her son, and advocating and supporting other women through this journey.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have heard those words “there is nothing we can do.” This episode is for you to listen if you experienced a miscarriage, or 2nd trimester loss, and to how to navigate the waters of loss.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Earth Mama Organics. Earth Mama makes clean, safe and effective herbal solutions for the entire journey of motherhood, from pregnancy and breastfeeding to baby care, and even the loss of a baby. Earth Mama’s certified organic formulations help mamas and their babies across the globe, by marrying generations of women’s wisdom and traditional herbal medicine with modern, evidence-based research. Listeners can save now on their purchase at EarthMama.com with Code SISTERSINLOSS.

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Ep185 - Placental Abruption and Baby Born Sleeping with Chassis Hawkins-Younger Jan 20, 2021

Do you know what a placental abruption is?

A placental abruption is a serious pregnancy complication in which the placenta detaches from the womb (uterus). Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the inner wall of the womb before delivery. The condition can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients.

Today’s guest experienced an unexpected placental abruption in her first pregnancy that was otherwise normal and uncomplicated. The abruption led to her baby boy to be born sleeping at 37 weeks and 6 days gestation. Chassis Hawkins-Younger shares in our Surviving Pregnancy Loss series how she survived her stillbirth due to placenta abruption, her rainbow and golden baby pregnancies, and how she honors her son Anthony all year long.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth, placenta abruption, or have had a pregnancy after loss. This episode is for you to listen to gain ideas on how to honor you angel all year long.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Earth Mama Organics. Earth Mama makes clean, safe and effective herbal solutions for the entire journey of motherhood, from pregnancy and breastfeeding to baby care, and even the loss of a baby. Earth Mama’s certified organic formulations help mamas and their babies across the globe, by marrying generations of women’s wisdom and traditional herbal medicine with modern, evidence-based research. Listeners can save now on their purchase at EarthMama.com with Code SISTERSINLOSS.

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Ep184 - Why me God? Why did I suffer a miscarriage? with Tyneise Seaborough Jan 13, 2021

Why me God? Why did I suffer a miscarriage?

Have you asked yourself those questions after an untimely loss or setback on your fertility journey?

Today’s guest had a year long journey to conception and when she received a positive pregnancy test she was so ecstatic. That joy ended at 8 weeks pregnant with a miscarriage of the baby she wanted. Tyneise Seaborough shares in this episode how she had to mentally prepare before she gained the courage to try again. She had to ask God those hard questions like why me? Why did I suffer a miscarriage? This experience led her to write a journal entitled: Journal for the Infertile Woman: Wombs Coming Alive through the Word of God. In this episode Tyneise takes us back to that day she found out she was miscarrying, the moment she knew she conceived her rainbow baby, and how God keeps his promises by blessing her with a baby girl.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever had a miscarriage, or asked God why on this journey. This episode is for you to listen to if you ever had to wait for God’s promise.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Earth Mama Organics. Earth Mama makes clean, safe and effective herbal solutions for the entire journey of motherhood, from pregnancy and breastfeeding to baby care, and even the loss of a baby. Earth Mama’s certified organic formulations help mamas and their babies across the globe, by marrying generations of women’s wisdom and traditional herbal medicine with modern, evidence-based research. Listeners can save now on their purchase at EarthMama.com with Code SISTERSINLOSS.

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Ep183 - Fibroids and Pregnancy After Loss with Keanna Barnes Jan 06, 2021

We are kicking off the new year discussing Fibroids. Do you know what Fibroids are? Do you know anyone who has fibroids or do you have them yourself? Do you know that you can get pregnant and sustain a pregnancy with Fibroids?

Fibroids are Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can develop during a woman's childbearing years. The cause of fibroids isn't well understood. Risk factors include a family history of fibroids, obesity, or early onset of puberty. Symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, and pelvic pain. In some cases, there are no symptoms. Treatments include medications and removal of the fibroid.

Studies show that African-American women suffer fibroids 2 to 3 times more than white women. Black women tend to experience fibroids at a younger age and often more severely than their white counterparts. One estimate is that 25% of African-American women will suffer from fibroids by the age of 25 and 80% will have them by age 50 (compared with 70% for white females). Because Black women suffer fibroids at an earlier age, they also are 2 to 3 times more likely to undergo surgery.

Today’s guest was featured back in Episode 31 of the podcast sharing her journey through miscarriages, a stillbirth, and rainbow baby pregnancy with fibroids. Keanna Barnes updates us on her journey to parenthood and since that episode has since had another baby girl her golden baby. A golden baby is a baby born after a rainbow baby.

In this episode Keanna takes us back on her journey through suffering miscarriages, a stillbirth, getting pregnant with her golden baby and pregnancy with fibroids. Her book Journey to Peace a 31 Day Devotional: Through the Grief of Miscarriage, Stillbirth, or Other Pregnancy Loss is a go to in the Sisters in Loss Community for those who have experienced fibroids and loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have fibroids, had a miscarriage or had a stillbirth. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what a pregnancy after loss entails.

Today's episode is sponsored by Earth Mama Organics. Earth Mama makes clean, safe and effective herbal solutions for the entire journey of motherhood, from pregnancy and breastfeeding to baby care, and even the loss of a baby. Earth Mama's certified organic formulations help mamas and their babies across the globe, by marrying generations of women's wisdom and traditional herbal medicine with modern, evidence-based research. Listeners can save now on their purchase at EarthMama.com with Code SISTERSINLOSS.

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Ep182 - 2020 the Year of the Unexpected! 2021 the Year of God’s Promises Fulfilled! Dec 30, 2020

We made it yall! We have made it to the end of the year, and I’m happy to say we made it whole. Many of us started this year with the expectation of greatness. Ambition to take on the world. Start that new business, write that new book, launch that new product, travel to a new country, and just live a life after loss that was unimaginable. Then our world was paused in March as COVID-19 shut down the world, travel, and many businesses especially small businesses. Many of our family and friends have been diagnosed with COVID-19, recovered, or even worse have gone to be angels in heaven. 2020 has been the year of the Unexpected!

In this solo episode I talk about the year in review, my personal and professional goals, and my 2021 word of the year.

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Ep181 - Trauma after loss due to PPROM and Inadequate Maternal Health Care with Kimi Farrington Dec 23, 2020

Did you not feel supported during loss due to inadequate maternal health care?

Today’s guest experienced a premature delivery and loss at 19 weeks due to PPROM or premature rupture of the membranes and possible cervical insufficiency. Kimi Farrington was not able to get the necessary medical treatment and mental health services following her loss, and losing her daughter’s father months after she died made grieving unbearable. In this episode, Kimi shares how she is advocating for the improvement of care and quality for black maternal health, how her loss of her daughter and daughter's father shaped her to take interest in mental and emotional health, and how her experience has awakened her inner advocacy and inspired her to go to law school in Fall 2021.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a premature birth, PPROM, or birth trauma for inadequate maternal health care. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to be a part of the solution to improving black maternal health.

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Ep180 - PCOS, Miscarriages, and Losing a Toddler with Danielle Anderson Dec 16, 2020

Can you imagine losing your son in front of your other children?

Today’s guest was diagnosed with PCOS and did 3 rounds of Clomid before conceiving her first child, suffered from 2 miscarriages then unexpectedly conceived her second son. After her son’s first birthday he passed away from what was eventually called “natural causes.” Danielle Anderson struggled to believe that she was a mom of 2 boys because her arms were empty with missing her son. In this episode, Danielle takes us back to her struggles with infertility and PCOS, losing her son Chase at 1 years old, and conceiving her rainbow baby and golden baby during her grief journey. She also shares how she changed her lifestyle and started focusing on her health as self care pursuing whole health - spiritual, mental, emotional and physical. Also, Danielle shares her journey becoming a Birth and Bereavement doula through Sisters in Loss and how that has helped her grief journey.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have PCOS, suffered from miscarriages, or had an untimely toddler loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you have not considered a healthy lifestyle as self care and how to take control of your health.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep180

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Ep179 - Foster to Adopt After Loss with Tiffany Flakes-Williams Dec 09, 2020

Have you considered Fostering to Adopt after Loss?

For many parents in efforts to grow their family and having experienced untimely loss the option to foster a child and for many foster to adopt.

Today’s guest decided to foster to adopt after her wife struggled with fibroids, myomectomy, and 3 failed IUIs. Tiffany Flakes-Williams and her wife then turned to her to begin their journey to parenthood and then were faced with fibroids as well, but were told they wouldn’t cause any problems conceiving. They were able to conceive on their first IUI cycle and found out they were pregnant with twins. Tiffany went on to see one baby stop growing and had additional monitoring as the fibroids began to grow. At 20 weeks her water broke and she experienced PPROM premature rupture of the membranes and was able to maintain bedrest up until 24 weeks. Her son Chandler was born via c-section and fought hard to survive. In this episode Tiffany takes us back to that day when her water broke, how 18 months after Chandler died they began the foster parent process, how her rainbow baby came via foster care to adopt, and now she is pregnant with her golden baby.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have considered foster care to adopt after loss. This episode is also for you to listen to if have experienced PPROM, IUI, or are apart of the LGBTQ community and growing your family.

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Ep 178 - Myomectomy, Transabdominal Cerclage, and Faith after Loss with Dr. Shabnam Brady Dec 02, 2020

Have you heard of a Myomectomy procedure?

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove uterine fibroids. These common noncancerous growths appear in the uterus. Uterine fibroids usually develop during childbearing years, but they can occur at any age. Women of Color have the highest occurrence of fibroids in up to 90% of black women before age of 50.

Today’s guest experienced an untimely loss at 22 weeks of baby girl Alexandria Shah due to preterm labor and cervical insufficiency. Dr. Shabnam Brady began to research for answers why and what could possibly have happened. She went to several specialist doctors and conducted months of research. She and her husband decided to undergo a myomectomy to remove fibroids and went to Chicago to undergo a Transabdominal Cerclage procedure due to her cervical insufficiency. Last Summer, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Shabnam for dinner while she was pregnant with her miracle Faith. In this episode, Shabnam takes us back to her making the decision for both procedures: the myomectomy and transabdominal cerclage, how her Faith after loss was during her rainbow baby pregnancy, and how therapy and mental health played a major role in her healing.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have considered a myomectomy or transabdominal cerclage procedures. This episode is for you to listen to on how to research your options and choose the best specialist or therapist for you after loss.

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Ep177 - Sickle Cell Anemia and Pregnancy Loss with Regina Jackson Nov 25, 2020

Have you heard of Sickle Cell Anemia?

Sickle cell anemia is one of a group of disorders known as sickle cell disease. Sickle cell anemia is an inherited red blood cell disorder in which there aren't enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. Normally, the flexible, round red blood cells move easily through blood vessels.

During pregnancy the disease can become more severe, and pain episodes can occur more often. A pregnant woman with SCD is at a higher risk of preterm labor, having a low birth weight baby or other complications.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with Sickle Cell when she was a child and found out she was pregnant when she was sick and thought she had pneumonia. Regina Jackson felt tired during the Thanksgiving Holiday and had light spotting which she thought was implantation bleeding accompanied with bad cramps. She ended up in the ER where she was continuing to hemorrhage and bleed through the Holidays. Regina woke up on December 30 in labor and immediately went to the ER where they had her wait for almost 2 hours to be seen. She ended up having her baby in the bathroom by herself, and then was seen by the nurses.

In this episode Regina recounts the day she miscarried, how sickle cell anemia plays a role in pregnancy, and how she is surviving pregnancy loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have sickle cell or know anyone with the disease. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a pregnancy loss and had to learn to love yourself, live your purpose, and advocate for yourself.

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Ep176 - Miscarriage and Navigating Life After Pregnancy Loss with Mikell Smith Nov 18, 2020

How do you Navigate Life After Pregnancy and Infant Loss?

Today’s guest experienced a miscarriage at 7 weeks and her world shook upside down. She initially didn’t think she could conceive, but was happy to find out she was expecting. Mikell Smith was excited when she found out she was pregnant and all of her pregnancy symptoms hit her at once. When she didn’t feel those symptoms any longer she knew something was wrong. In this episode Mikell takes us on her journey to motherhood and how she navigates life after pregnancy loss. She shares how she pulls herself together afterwards, the communities she joined for support, and how it inspired her to write a book Still a Mom: Navigating Life After Pregnancy Loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever wondered how someone navigates life after pregnancy loss. This episode is for you if you have experienced a miscarriage.

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Ep175 - Transabdominal Cerclage, PCOS, and IVF Success with Michelle Byrd Nov 11, 2020

Have you heard of a Transabdominal Cerclage?

In a transabdominal cerclage procedure, a gynecologic surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen near the bikini line. Through this transabdominal incision, the surgeon places a small, woven synthetic band high on the cervix. The band supports the cervix, preventing it from opening and losing the pregnancy.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with PCOS and knew she would need assistance to have a family. After trying naturally for sometime she was directed to a Fertility specialist who recommended IVF. Michelle Byrd’s first round of IVF was a success as she was pregnant with boy girl twins, but lost them due to cervical insufficiency at 18 weeks. She had embryos from her first IVF cycle and was able to get pregnant again after having a cerclage for cervical stitch placed at 16 weeks. Michelle went on to lose that pregnancy at 17 weeks. She then began searching for options to prolong her pregnancies and researched a transabdominal cerclage, a cervical stitch placed before she is trying to conceive and increases her chances of pregnancy. In this episode Michelle takes us back to the painful moment of losing her babies due to cervical insufficiency, her decision for getting a transabdominal cerclage, and her successful frozen embryo transfer and rainbow baby pregnancy.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have had cervical insufficiency or an incompetent cervix and are considering a transabdominal cerclage. This episode is for you to listen to if you have PCOS, experienced a 2nd trimester loss, and have gone through fertility treatments.

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Ep174 - Women of Color Pregnancy and Postpartum App for you Wolomi with Layo George Nov 04, 2020

Have you been searching for an app for your pregnancy after loss? Well there is an online app that is for you called Wolomi.

Wolomi is the only digital community that offers support to women of color to improve maternal health outcomes. Membership to Wolomi gives you access to maternal health experts, events, and a community of amazing women.

Today’s guest is Wolomi’s founder Layo George, who is a registered nurse and maternal health expert that is focused on guiding and supporting aspiring moms and moms-to-be to enjoy their pregnancy journey.

In this episode Layo shares her inspiration for starting Wolomi, her personal journey through perinatal depression, and why Wolomi addresses maternal mental health at all stages through pregnancy and postpartum.

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Ep173 - High Risk Pregnancy and Miscarriage with Kayanna Mooreland-Law Oct 28, 2020

This is the last week of Pregnancy, Infant and Child Loss Awareness Month. All month long we will honor our babies gone to heaven far too soon. This month is special because you get to hear from our Sisters in Loss Birth, Bereavement and Postpartum Doulas! Yes, you get to hear the ladies share their testimonies and stories to motherhood and why they became Sisters in Loss doulas and how they liked the course.

Imagine experiencing two losses in less than two years?

Today’s guest experienced two miscarriages within 18 months. Kayanna Mooreland-Law experienced a miscarriage at 11 weeks and birthed at home in the restroom. She went onto experience another threatened miscarriage at 6 weeks and labored also with the pregnancy and miscarried at home.

In this episode Kayanna shares how she is surviving pregnancy loss and being in a high risk pregnancy, and how she made the decision to become a Sisters in Loss Birth and Bereavement Doula.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever experienced multiple miscarriages and delivered at home, and want to know how to turn your pain into purpose by enrolling in the Sisters in Loss Birth and Bereavement Doula course. www.sistersinloss.com/doulatraining

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Ep172 - Thyroidectomy, Infertility, and Miscarriage with Shanicka Vail House Oct 21, 2020

October is Pregnancy, Infant and Child Loss Awareness Month. All month long we will honor our babies gone to heaven far too soon. This month is special because you get to hear from our Sisters in Loss Birth, Bereavement and Postpartum Doulas! Yes, you get to hear the ladies share their testimonies and stories to motherhood and why they became Sisters in Loss doulas and how they liked the course.

Have you heard of the term Goiter?

A goiter (GOI-tur) is an abnormal enlargement of your thyroid gland. Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck just below your Adam's apple. Although goiters are usually painless, a large goiter can cause a cough and make it difficult for you to swallow or breathe.

Today’s guest thought she was showing signs of early menopause and doctors found a goiter on her thyroid and questioned her fertility. Shanicka Vail House stepped out on faith and created onesies as a confession of her faith that God will bless her womb. She had one girl then two years later was blessed with another girl. Then as the world began to shut down she experienced a miscarriage at home with extreme blood loss resulting in a blood transfusion.

In this episode, Shanicka takes us back on her personal thyroid journey, miscarrying at home that resulted in a blood transfusion, and how she is surviving pregnancy loss with her faith in God and becoming a Sisters in Loss Birth & Bereavement Doula.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever experienced a miscarriage and delivered at home, and want to know how to turn your pain into purpose by enrolling in the Sisters in Loss Birth and Bereavement Doula course. www.sistersinloss.com/doulatraining

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Ep171 - Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Infant Loss with Laura Gooch Brown Oct 14, 2020

October is Pregnancy, Infant and Child Loss Awareness Month. All month long we will honor our babies gone to heaven far too soon. This month is special because you get to hear from our Sisters in Loss Birth, Bereavement and Postpartum Doulas! Yes, you get to hear the ladies share their testimonies and stories to motherhood and why they became Sisters in Loss doulas and how they liked the course.

Have you heard of the term Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)?

Intrauterine Growth Restriction is a condition in which a baby doesn't grow to normal weight during pregnancy.

Causes of intrauterine growth restriction vary but include placenta abnormalities, high blood pressure in the mother, infections, and smoking or alcohol abuse.

With this condition, a baby is born weighing less than 90 percent of other babies at the same gestational age.

Today’s guest experienced two early miscarriages, and determined to become a mother lost over 130 pounds in hopes of reducing any barriers to having a healthy baby. Laura Gooch Brown was able to conceive a baby boy Jaden and during the last trimester they were diagnosed with Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Jaden would not survive. In this episode she recalls her specialists visits for different opinions and received the same prognosis. During a scheduled amniocentesis she learned that Jaden’s heart had stopped and she had to deliver him the following day. Laura shares in this episode what it was like during her two year wait to conceive her rainbow baby boy Jordan, her pregnancy and delivery with him, and how she is giving back to her community by becoming a Sisters in Loss Birth and Bereavement Doula.

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Ep170 - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Ectopic Pregnancy Loss, and Secondary Infertility with Anesha Stanley Oct 07, 2020

October is Pregnancy, Infant and Child Loss Awareness Month. All month long we will honor our babies gone to heaven far too soon. This month is special because you get to hear from our Sisters in Loss Birth, Bereavement and Postpartum Doulas! Yes, you get to hear the ladies share their testimonies and stories to motherhood and why they became Sisters in Loss doulas and how they liked the course.

Have you heard of recurrent pregnancy loss?

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss is defined by two or more failed pregnancies and is considered distinct from infertility. When the cause is unknown, each pregnancy loss merits careful review to determine whether specific evaluation may be appropriate, and after two or more losses, a thorough evaluation is warranted.

Today’s guest experienced 5 miscarriages after having her baby girl, one being an ectopic pregnancy where she lost her fallopian tube, and then was diagnosed with secondary infertility. Anesha Stanley’s first pregnancy ended with a miscarriage in 2014. Three months later she found out she was pregnant with her rainbow baby girl, Sinai. She waited two years before trying to conceive again. In 2017 we began experiencing recurrent pregnancy losses. Miscarriage #2 on January 14, 2017. An ectopic pregnancy #3, November 1, 2017 was treated with methotrexate. Anesha went onto experience two more losses and was diagnosed with secondary infertility and tubal failure.

In this episode, Anesha takes us back to what it was like experiencing the highs of finding out she was pregnant and the lows and pain of miscarriage. She shares how she felt after being diagnosed with secondary infertility and tubal failure, and how and why she started her non profit Keys of Hope Foundation and became a Sisters in Loss Birth & Bereavement Doula.

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Ep169 - Preeclampsia, HELLP Syndrome, and Twin to Twin transfusion losses with Ebony Ford Sep 30, 2020

Have you heard of twin to twin transfusion syndrome?

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a condition that occurs only in monochorionic pregnancies — ones in which two or more genetically identical babies (usually twins) share the same placenta. Although all identical twins share a placenta, TTTS develops in about 10 to 15 percent of those pregnancies.

Today’s guest experienced a stillbirth at 32 weeks, an early miscarriage, and a 22 week pregnancy ending in twin to twin transfusion. Ebony Ford has a story to tell after moving forward with her adoption journey she found out she was pregnant with her rainbow baby girl. That pregnancy was uneventful until 26 weeks where she came back from vacation and discovered she was in complete kidney and liver failure due to preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. Her micropreemie Reign Victoria was born at 26 weeks weighing 1lb 15oz and spent time in the NICU while Ebony was fighting for her life through dialysis, intubation, ventilation and more.

In this episode Ebony shares her journey through stillbirth, miscarriage, and losing twins due to twin to twin transfusion. She also shares the day she almost lost her life and her 3 month NICU journey with Reign Victoria. Now Ebony has turned her pain into purpose by advocating for prematurity, traumatic birth, medically fragile children and maternal health.

This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know how it is to raise a micro preemie and medically fragile child. You should listen to this episode if you experienced a stillbirth, miscarriage, twin loss, or preeclampisa and HELLP syndrome.

Listen to this episode here: sistersinloss.com/ep169

Ep168 - NICU Graduate and Navigating the Medical System with Ease with Tanisha Burke Wormley Sep 23, 2020

Can you imagine getting a diagnosis that you baby is not expected to live due to their rare birth defect?

Today’s guest experienced a miscarriage at 8 weeks and then went on to conceive her rainbow baby. At her 20 week ultrasound she received the news no parent doesn’t want to hear that her son Jaleel had a rare birth defect called Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction. LUTO is life-threatening as it damages the unborn baby’s kidneys, bladder, and causes underdeveloped lungs due to low or no amniotic fluid because of blockage in the urinary tract. Tanisha Burke Wormley persevered with her pregnancy after being told her son Jaleel could be stillborn due to his underdeveloped lungs and kidney damage. But God! God saw fit for Jaleel to not only survive delivery, but also a 157 day NICU stay, 2 ER re-admissions, and 11 surgeries.

In this episode Tanisha and I share experiences of having rainbow babies with complex medical needs, how she is managing life pregnant with her rainbow baby girl and a toddler with Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease.

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This episode is for you to listen to if you are a mother with a child with complex medical needs and wanting to grow your family. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a miscarriage and/or a NICU experience.

Ep167 - Congenital Heart Defect Child Loss and Overcoming Depression with Keivon Hardy Sep 16, 2020

Have you heard of congenital heart defects?

A Congenital Heart defect is an abnormality in the heart that develops before birth. Congenital heart defect is one of the most common types of birth defects. Symptoms include abnormal heart rhythms, blue-tinted skin, shortness of breath, failure to feed or develop normally, and swollen body tissue or organs. Treatments include medications to lower blood pressure and control heart rate, heart devices, catheter procedures, and surgery. Serious cases may require a heart transplant.

Today’s guest experienced an infant loss due to congenital heart defect and had a miscarriage. Keivon Hardy is a childless mother who managed life with prenatal and postpartum depression, anxiety, and isolation after her infant loss and miscarriage. When she was 20 weeks pregnant with her son she found out via a routine ultrasound that he had a congenital heart defect. Because his case was unique the doctors weren’t able to determine exactly what his defect was until birth. After birth, it was determined that his blood vessels were too small to be operated on and he would need to grow before they could operate. He lived to be one month old and never came home from the NICU. Keivon went on to conceive again only to be faced with another loss a miscarriage while on birth control.

In today’s episode, Keivon takes us back to when she found out her son had a congenital heart defect, how she dealt with prenatal and postnatal depression, and losing her son and then having a miscarriage while on birth control.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a infant loss due to congenital heart defect or a miscarriage while on birth control.

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Ep166 - Placenta Abruption and Loss not being in Vain with Vanessa Robinson Sep 09, 2020

Do you know what a placenta abruption is?

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the inner wall of the womb before delivery. The condition can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients. Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, belly pain, and back pain in the last 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Depending on the degree of placental separation and how close the baby is to full-term, treatment may include bed rest or a cesarean section. According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), if severe abruption occurs, 15% ends in fetal death. Infants who survive have a 40-50% chance of developing long-term health complications.

Today’s guest had a placenta abruption at 36 weeks gestation due to preeclampsia. Vanessa Robinson experienced severe bleeding losing 4 liters of blood and needed blood transfusions to survive. Her son died 4 minutes into being rushed to the hospital from severe bleeding. In this episode Vanessa takes us back to the moment she knew something was wrong, how she grieved her loss while fighting for her life, and how depression post loss lead her to research and start her own nonprofit to bring awareness, support, and education about the racial disparities against women color in the medical field.

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Ep165 - Why Doulas are Essential to Pregnancy Loss with Sonia Killebrew Sep 02, 2020

Have you heard of the term blighted ovum or chemical pregnancy? A blighted ovum occurs when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus but doesn't develop into an embryo. It is also referred to as an an embryonic (no embryo) pregnancy and is a leading cause of early pregnancy failure or miscarriage. Often it occurs so early that you don't even know you are pregnant.

Today’s guest experienced a chemical pregnancy and an early miscarriage around 11 weeks. Sonia Killebrew @soniajkillebrew leaned on her skills as a doula and holistic health coach to walk her through her losses. Each loss held its own grief as she walked together with her husband, but her second pregnancy loss was grieved at a distance due to her military husband being deployed. Sonia had to learn how to communicate her needs, and she self healed holistically through herbal treatments that helped her process the loss mindfully.

In this episode, Sonia takes us back on her journey to motherhood and shares what it was like to birth two angels in the first trimester. She shares how her training as a doula and student midwife has called her deeper into women’s wellness especially every phase of birth, and how Doulas are needed and essential especially in pregnancy loss.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever experienced a blighted ovum or chemical pregnancy. This episode is for you to listen to to understand how a doula is essential in all stages of pregnancy and loss.

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Ep164 - HELLP Syndrome and Preeclampsia with Trashaun Powell Aug 26, 2020

Have you heard of HELLP Syndrome?

HELLP Syndrome is a life-threatening pregnancy complication usually considered to be a variant of preeclampsia. Both conditions usually occur during the later stages of pregnancy, or sometimes after childbirth.

Today’s guest was diagnosed HELLP syndrome at just 23 weeks pregnant. Trashaun Powell was immediately taken to the intensive care unit and was shocked to find out that their baby girl, Mia Jane, would have to be delivered to save her life. Mia was 1 lb and 1 oz at delivery and passed away the next day. Trashaun spent another 2 weeks in the hospital after losing Mia fighting for her own life.

In this episode Traushaun takes us back to the moment of finding out she had HELLP syndrome and could die if she didn’t deliver immediately. She shares how this traumatic birth and loss has empowered her to advocate for preeclampsia and fighting racial disparities for BIPOC.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced Preeclampsia or HELLP Syndrome and have lost a micropreemie in the NICU.

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Ep163 - Male factor Infertility with TJ Peyten Aug 19, 2020

Have you heard of male factor infertility? Male factor infertility is due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices and other factors can play a role in causing male infertility. Of all infertility cases, approximately 40–50% is due to “male factor” infertility and as many as 2% of all men will exhibit suboptimal sperm parameters.

Today’s guest shares her journey as a wife through male infertility. TJ Peyten discovered 5 years into marriage and trying to conceive that her husband had male factor infertility. Male infertility was already a taboo subject and even more not talked about amongst black couples. Frustrated at the lack of support and resources available for those struggling with male infertility, TJ used her journal as an outlet to deal with the pain. After several years of coping with their infertility through her journal, TJ finally got the courage to share her story with the world through her book Semen Secrets: Truths and Confessions of a Wife's Journey Through Male Infertility.

In today’s episode, TJ takes us back on her journey trying to conceive, journaling her thoughts on male infertility, how it effects relationships, and how she conceived and had her rainbow baby in 2019. This episode is for you to listen to if your partner has suffered from male factor infertility, and how to hold onto hope through infertility.

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Ep162 - Birth and Loss on the Same Day with Shana Anderson Aug 12, 2020

Imagine birthing your rainbow baby and losing your first born on the same day!?

Today’s episode is one that hits close to home as her story is very similar to my own. I would be lying to you if I didn't say I cried throughout this entire interview and hours afterward. This episode is a trigger, so please grab some tissue, and brace yourself as you embark on this woman's journey to motherhood.

Shana Anderson experienced a placenta abruption with her first born son Bryce, and he was later diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and chronic lung disease. She then went onto having a stillbirth at 34 weeks with baby girl Aleeya. After experiencing what seemed like a year full of hospitalizations with Bryce she planned a Make a Wish trip to Disney World and found out she was expecting her third baby. In June 2020, Shana gave birth to her rainbow baby boy Brayden, and later that evening her son Bryce passed away.

In this episode, Shana is raw as it is weeks after laying her son Bryce to rest. She takes us back to the day of great joy and deep sorrow of birthing a son and losing a son. Shana is taking it one day at a time and literally spoke life over herself, her womb, and baby Brayden as he was growing in her belly while taking care of a medically fragile toddler. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what God’s grace and mercy looks like on earth in the form of strength and resilience. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a placenta abruption, stillbirth, or pregnancy after loss.

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Ep161 - 3 Years of Podcasting and Staying Consistent! Aug 05, 2020

It's my Anniversary!

Yes, August 2020 makes 3 Years of the @SistersinLoss podcast! 3 Years, 161 Episodes, Over 150 Guests, and 5000+ hours of black sisters and brothers in loss sharing stories of loss, infertility challenges, rainbow babies, IVF successes, Surrogacy, Abortion, Adoption, Grief, Healing, and so much more!

Today's episode is a solo episode where I get candid about some changes in my personal life like moving from Virginia to Maryland (Hey DMV, Hey Baltimore). I also share 3 ways I have been consistent in podcasting for these three years. From my voice to God's ears I share what I hope to see in the next year of podcasting and for you to join our newsletter to learn more about our upcoming Sisters in Loss Digital Summit!

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever dropped the ball, picked it back up, took the shot, missed, and finally made it KOBE style! I share how to stay consistent even when you feel like giving up.

Ep160 - A PCOS diagnosis, Stillbirth and Rainbow Baby after the Storm with Whitney Vaughn Jul 29, 2020

Today’s guest was diagnosed in her early 20s with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome where her doctor told her she had zero eggs and almost no lining in her uterus making it not viable to carry a baby to term. Whitney Vaughn then made the proper diet changes and in September 2018 found out she was pregnant. At 28 weeks along she did not detect a heartbeat on her home doppler and went to the hospital to be faced with the same news her baby passed away in utero. In this episode Whitney takes us back to those moments of delivering her stillbirth baby, her first Mother’s day after loss, finding out she was pregnant with her rainbow baby, and delivering and mothering her rainbow baby.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever been counted out by doctors for your diagnosis and are holding onto hope for your rainbow baby.

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Ep159 - IVF cycle Cancelled due to COVID-19 with Crystal Simpson Jul 22, 2020

Imagine having your next round of IVF cancelled due to COVID-19.

Today’s guest was diagnosed with unexplained infertility after many years trying. She experienced 3 unsuccessful IUIs and 1 cancelled IUI, and 1 IVF cycle that resulted in a miscarriage. Crystal Simpson, a military wife went off birth control about 6 months after getting married. She knew something was wrong and went to her OB/GYN for testing, but the testing showed no issues and she was recommended to a Reproductive Endocrinologist for an Intrauterine Insemination or IUI. After 3 IUIs and 1 cancelled IUI none of them resulted in a positive pregnancy test. Crystal was determined to become a mother and decided to undergo IVF all while moving and travelling back and forth from Kansas to Maryland. After having a fresh transfer with her last viable embryo she went in for her 8 week ultrasound only to find out her baby boy was measuring at 5 weeks and she was miscarrying. In this episode Crystal takes us back on her journey through IUI and IVF all while moving as a military wife, how her family and friends supported her, and how God’s timing is perfect even in this pandemic.

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Ep158 - Endometriosis, Recurrent Miscarriage, and Faith to Overcome Secondary Infertility with Maria Pyanov Jul 15, 2020

After not having difficulty conceiving her first two children, today’s guest began experiencing heavy bleeding, severe pelvic pain and physical therapy and was diagnosed with endometriosis. When Maria Pyanov was ready to try again she miscarried. She miscarried another 5 times and experienced the loss of a foster son. In today’s episode Maria takes us back on her journey through being diagnosed with endometriosis, her recurrent miscarriage and IVF journey, her loss of boy she fostered, and her faith and determination to overcome secondary infertility. This episode is for you to listen to if you suffer from endometriosis, have had recurrent miscarriages, or have experienced the loss of a foster or adoptive child.

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Ep157 - A Delay is not a Denial Ectopic Pregnancy to Rainbow Baby with Abi Ade Jul 08, 2020

A Delay is not a Denial!

Today’s guest believes that her faith is what helped her through her ectopic pregnancies, fallopian tube loss, miscarriage, and rainbow baby pregnancy.

Abi Ade is our @SistersinLoss from across the pond residing in London. In this episode she shares her journey to motherhood which began in 2015 after her wedding she found out she was pregnant. That pregnancy resulted in a ruptured fallopian tube due to an ectopic pregnancy and she had to have it removed to save her life. Abi went on to experience another ectopic pregnancy in which the doctors were able to save her remaining tube. Abi shares in this episode how she dealt another pregnancy ending with a miscarriage, how she was about to give up, and her perseverance to become a mum and pregnancy and delivery of her rainbow baby.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever felt like giving up on this journey to parenthood, and know that a delay is not denial and your promise is coming!

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Ep156 - Never Giving up Hope after Miscarriages with Joanna Pendergrass Jul 01, 2020

Imagine healing from miscarriages only to be faced with your IVF treatment being postponed due to COVID-19. Today's guest shares her painful journey of experiencing two miscarriages and deciding to undergo fertility treatment.

Joanna Pendergrass shares in this episode how she grieved her unborn children. Her failed IVF treatment, her second round of treatment and not being able to undergo embryo transfer due to COVID-19, and how she is not giving up hope on this journey to parenthood. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced miscarriages, have gone through a failed IVF experienced, and have felt like giving up hope on your journey to parenthood.

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Ep155 - Twin Loss to Triumph and Don't Struggle in Silence with Ashley Pittman Jun 24, 2020

Imagine experiencing loss of twins at 7 months and then 5 other miscarriages to have your rainbow baby? Today's guest is the connector of a new book collaboration with Angel Moms called "Don't Struggle in Silence - I am a Victor" out now. In this episode Ashley Pittman shares her story and journey of twin loss and miscarriage and how it empowered her to be an advocate for angel moms, families, and relationships. She connected 5 other ladies as collaborators for her new book where they each share their story of not struggling in silence. Ashley shares her vision behind this new book project and how each of the collaborators stories play a pivotal role in showing they are victorious after loss. You will also here in this episode stories from Dadriaunna Hayes, Dartesha Davis, and Janell Jones.

This episode is for your to listen to if you felt like you have struggled in silence on your journey and for you to be inspired from these ladies stories and book collaboration.

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Ep154 - From Miscarriage to Maternal Health Advocate with Kia Livingston Jun 17, 2020

From miscarriage to maternal health advocate and becoming a doula. Today's guest shares how she suffered from depression and anxiety after having a miscarriage at 14 weeks.

Kia Livingston had to lean on God and her support system to get out of a very dark place after suffering a miscarriage at 14 weeks. She turned her pain into purpose and became a doula and maternal health advocate. In this episode she takes us back on her journey to motherhood, how she overcame depression after her loss, and how her work as a doula is helping her advocate for black maternal health.

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Ep153 - Life After Infant Loss and Trading Beauty for Ashes with Dadriaunna Hayes Jun 10, 2020

What does life after infant loss and birth trauma look like? Today's guest shares in this episode what life after miscarriage and trading beauty for ashes means and more.

Dadriaunna Hayes lost her son at 24 weeks gestation due to cervical incompetence and experienced birth trauma. She went into pre-term labor and the hospital she was at did not have a NICU or Labor and Delivery center so she had to be transferred. Once transferred she endured a cerclage, 2 epidurals in 48 hours, allergic reaction to the labor medications, and ultimately birthed her baby boy who died shortly after entering into the world.

In this episode, Dadriaunna takes us back on her journey to motherhood, she shares how she almost lost her life and how her husband advocated for her, and how she created a digital space for millennial moms of color to trade beauty for ashes with God.

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Ep152 - Beyond Celiac and Living Gluten Free with Royale Walters Jun 03, 2020

Six Miscarriages later today's guest was determined to find out what was the cause. Royale Walters tenacity and resilience led her to discover that she had celiac's auto immune disease a condition which gives you a gluten intolerance and it led to her miscarriages.

In today's episode, she shares how the gluten was attacking her body while she was pregnant, how she changed her diet and saw immediate results, and how food has changed her way she approaches fertility. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had recurrent miscarriages and are interested in how food like gluten play a role in your fertility.

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Ep151 - How to become a certified doula? So you want to be a doula? May 27, 2020

So you want to be a doula? What does a doula do? How can I become one? How much does it cost? If you want answers to these questions and more this episode is for you. I’m excited to launch our 2nd Cohort of the Sisters in Loss Birth and Bereavement Doula training and certification program. This doula certification program will run for 6 weeks beginning on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at 8pm EST. For more information on how to register go to sistersinloss.com/doulatraining.

In today’s episode I share what a doula is, the different types of doulas, doula certification programs that support black mamas and birthing persons, and the costs to become certified. This episode is for you to listen to if you have wanted to become a doula and are not sure where to start. Stay tuned until the end for a special discount code just for the Sisters in Loss listeners who want to become a Sisters in Loss doula.

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Ep150 - May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month with Eleni Tsigas May 20, 2020

Did you know that Preeclampsia is a leading cause of Maternal Mortality and prematurity?

Did you know that black birthing persons are 3x more likely to die from Preeclampsia?

Today’s episode is a special one because its our 150th episode! Can you believe it? We made it to 150! In honor of our 150th episode I had the pleasure of interviewing the CEO of the Preeclampsia Foundation Eleni Tsigas. A little background on Eleni, is the CEO of the Preeclampsia Foundation and member of the Board of Directors for Preeclampsia Foundation Canada. As a preeclampsia survivor herself, Eleni is a relentless champion for the improvement of patient and provider education and practices, for the catalytic role that patients can have to advance the science and status of maternal-infant health, and for the progress that can be realized by building global partnerships to improve patient outcomes. In this episode Eleni shares her personal preeclampsia story, how we can support May which is Preeclampsia awareness month, and why taking your blood pressure at is critical for pregnant ladies/birthing persons in this COVID-19 climate. We also share how we met, connected and how Sisters in Loss has partnered with Preeclampsia Foundation on maternal mortality and racial disparities. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced preeclampsia, want to know how to partner with the preeclampsia foundation, and why blood pressures are critical during pregnancy.

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Ep149 - Grieving Loss of Twin A from PPROM when Twin B is Fighting for her life with Trae Francois May 13, 2020

Imagine losing your sister to cancer and grieving her death you find out your are pregnant with twins. Today's guest experienced just that in October 2019 when she found out she was carrying twin girls. During Trae Francois 20 week ultrasound she found out her cervix had shorten and doctors did not recommend a cerclage due to her high risk twin pregnancy. She began taking progesterone to strengthen her cervix and to stop it from continue to shorten. It was on January 20, 2020 when her water broke at 23 weeks that doctors had to make tough decisions on baby A whose sac was ruptured due to PPROM. Baby girls Ava and Ari were born on January 22, 2020 and on January 25, 2020 baby Ari went to be with God in heaven. Ava continues to fight for her life in the NICU and is on track to come home in May 2020. In this episode Trae takes us back on her journey, her NICU stay in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, and how she is grieving the loss of Ari while being strong for Ava. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a twin loss and for understanding of what a NICU stay looks like in this pandemic.

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Ep148 - Mother's Day Wish for my Sisters in Loss! May 06, 2020

This past Sunday we celebrated International Bereaved Mother's Day and shown our love for our babies gone to heaven far too soon. This upcoming Sunday in the US we celebrate Mother's Day. Mother's Day can be very challenging, difficult emotionally, and with social distancing and quarantine can and will be very lonely for many Sisters in Loss. Today's podcast episode is my love letter to you letting you know that You are a Mother! All of the needle pokes, disappointing news, positive and negative pregnancy tests, exciting feelings of baby movement, to holding your baby in your arms after they have taken their last breath made you a mother. Don't let anyone make you feel different on Mother's Day. On Sunday, do what you need to do. Watch church online, make you a bomb brunch with mimosas, cry hard, stay home, and Facetime or Houseparty with family and friends will make the day better. Do it all. Sunday is your Mother’s Day. You are amazing! You are brave! You are beautiful! You are loved! You are blessed! You are a Mom. Wishing you Happy Mother’s Day Sister in Loss! All my Love, ~Erica

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Ep147 - Ish Happens and How to Bounce Back from Ectopic Pregnancy with Brytani Bradley Apr 29, 2020

Imagine being 23 and infertile. That is what today's guest was faced with when she realized she was having a ectopic pregnancy. Brytani Bradley woke up on her 8th week of pregnancy excited to see her baby only to find out the baby was not in her uterus and she had to be rushed into surgery due to her internal bleeding. She woke up shocked and confused because her baby was gone and so was her fallopian tube. In this episode Brytani takes us back on her journey to getting pregnant and the day she heard those words you are "23 and Infertile." This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced an ectopic pregnancy or traumatic miscarriage experience.

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Ep146 - Strength after Loss due to Placenta Abruption and Incompetent Cervix with Leone Madzinga Apr 22, 2020

Have you heard of the term placenta abruption? Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the inner wall of the womb before delivery. The condition can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients.

Today's guest has experienced a early miscarriage, a incompetent cervix baby boy loss at 16 weeks and a baby boy loss due placenta abruption at 26 weeks. Leone Madzinga hails from the continent from Zimbabwe and she shares in this episode her strength after several losses. She experienced an early miscarriage, incompetent cervix, cerclage for her next pregnancy and loss of that pregnancy due to placenta abruption. Leone shares in this episode how she uses her strength to continue to endure. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced incompetent cervix, placenta abruption, or want to know what loss is like in Zimbabwe.

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Ep145 - Hypothyroidism, Infertility Diagnosis, and 24 week Preemie with Monique Farook Apr 15, 2020

Imagine being told you are unable to have children. Imagine finding out your tubes were blocked. Today's guest, Monique Farook, podcast host of Infertility and Me @infertilityandme, shares her infertility journey through IUI, IVF, being diagnosed with hypothyroidism and uterine polyps. Monique shares in this episode how she endured failed IUI and IVF cycles, and her journey to her premature delivery of her baby boy a 24 weeks. She shares her NICU experience and her inspiration for starting the Infertility and Me Podcast. This podcast episode is for you to listen to if you have gone through IVF, IUI, or experienced a premature birth with NICU stay. I have also partnered with Infertility and Me podcast for this episode. Please go and rate, review, and subscribe to this show.

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Ep144 - Finding Joy and Strength through Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Therapy with Dr. Loree Johnson Apr 08, 2020

Have you heard of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss? Recurrent pregnancy loss is historically defined as 3 or more consecutive pregnancy losses prior to 20 weeks.

Today's guest has experienced 4 pregnancy losses including losing a son at 15 weeks due to chromosomal abnormalities. Dr. Loree Johnson, a licensed marriage and family therapist, shares her loss story and journey to motherhood. In this episode you will hear Dr. Loree's story of strength and perseverance and how she found joy and peace in the uncertainty of this journey. We all could use more joy and peace as we navigate the current uncertain times. This episode is for you to listen to if you are seeking a story of finding joy and strength after recurrent pregnancy loss.

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Ep143 - Ovarian Cysts and Coping After Stillbirth with Lakisha Watson Apr 01, 2020

There is always a rainbow after the storm of losses. Today's guest knows what it feels to be granted her rainbow baby girl on the day of love Valentine's Day 2019. Before that Lakisha Watson was told she would never conceive due to ovarian cysts and her fallopian tubes being partially closed. One month after getting married, she was able to defeat the odds and become pregnant with a baby boy. Lakisha's son's heart stopped beating at 31 weeks and he was born still. In today's episode Lakisha takes us back to those moments of how she coped with the loss of her son, how 4 months later she became pregnant with her rainbow baby girl, and what pregnancy after loss does to you emotionally. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever had a stillbirth, ovarian cysts, or want to understand what pregnancy after loss looks like.

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Ep142 - Overcoming Endometriosis and PCOS by Keeping the Faith with Chanelle McElroy Mar 25, 2020

With COVID-19 Cornavirus taking up our news feed, we are all searching for a hope, faith, and joy. Today's episode gives us just that faith beyond the cycle.

Chanelle McElroy's faith is shown after being diagnosed with endometriosis and PCOs in early 2017. She experienced 3 miscarriages, and was told that it would be difficult to conceive. Chanelle remained faithful and begin sharing her experiences through writing a journal. She became pregnant in October 2018 and gave birth to a preemie at 23 weeks and 5 days. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had recurrent miscarriages due to endometriosis or PCOS and how to keep the faith beyond the cycle.

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Ep141 - Recurrent Miscarriages and Never Giving Up with Tanya Taylor Mar 18, 2020

After hitting obstacle after obstacle today's guest faced many challenges getting and staying pregnant. From switching fertility medications to pushing through the grief from recurrent miscarriages today's guest is an example of never giving up hope. Tanya Taylor has experienced 4 miscarriages since 2018 most shortly after finding out she was pregnant. In this episode she takes us back on her grief journey and why she is holding onto her faith and never giving up hope to become a mother.

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Ep140 - Battling Infertility with PCOS and IVF Struggles with Dr. Shantell Chambliss Mar 11, 2020

Sometimes this journey to motherhood is two steps forward and three steps back. One thing I love about this Sisters in Loss Community is how RESILIENT you are on your journey. Today's guest is no different as she embodies resilience. Dr. Shantell Chambliss battled with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and was unable to get pregnant. In 2016, she conceived via Invitro Fertilization (IVF), and was devastated when she lost her baby boy due to cervical incompetence at 19 weeks. Shantell takes us back to that day in this episode and shares her additional 8 IVF treatments and how she stays resilient on her journey to motherhood.

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Ep139 - My Body Failed me with PCOS with Shakeena Brantley Mar 04, 2020

Have you ever felt like your body failed you? Imagine being told that it was normal to have an abnormal cycle in your teenage years. You get married, and those symptoms continue. Imagine trying to get pregnant and you keep having negative pregnancy tests month after month. Today's guest Shakeena Brantley shares her journey with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome also known as PCOS and how she felt like her body failed her throughout her journey to motherhood. Shakeena experienced two failed IUIs after her PCOS diagnosis and turned to her faith in God to help her through those deep dark moments. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever felt like your body failed you on your journey to motherhood. This episode is also for those who have been diagnosed with PCOS and how there is faith in infertility.

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Ep138 - Congenital Heart Defect and Postpartum Depression after Loss with Chavalia Dunlap-Mwamba Feb 26, 2020

Imagine giving birth to twin boys, overcoming postpartum depression, and finding out you are pregnant again. Today's guest experienced that plus more. Chavalia Dunlap-Mwaba found out when her twin boys were 3 years old that she was expecting. Her 3rd son had a congenital heart defect that would require surgery immediately upon birth. After meeting with specialists and doctors out of town assuring her baby would be in great hands at birth, she was unable to deliver there and had to go to local hospital and deliver via cesarean. Her baby boy was born and was unable to be resuscitated. In this episode Chavalia takes us back to that moment of carrying her lifeless but warm child back to her hospital room. She shares how she told her twin boys and how she healed from her loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a congenital heart defect loss, or postpartum depression after loss.

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Ep137 - PPROM and Incompetent Cervix with Stacy Patterson Feb 19, 2020

Have you heard of PPROM? Preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) is a pregnancy complication. In this condition, the sac (amniotic membrane) surrounding your baby breaks (ruptures) before week 37 of pregnancy. Once the sac breaks, you have an increased risk for infection. You also have a higher chance of having your baby born early.

Today's guest experienced preterm premature rupture of the membranes and was diagnosed with an incompetent cervix and loss her son. Stacy Patterson has two beautiful daughters after experiencing a preterm birth followed by a NICU stay and a perfect pregnancy she was ready for her son. She became pregnant in November 2019 and lost her son due to PPROM and being diagnosed with an Incompetent Cervix. In today's episode Stacy takes us back on her journey to having her son and the other health complications she experienced after loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced PPROM or been diagnosed with an Incompetent Cervix.

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Ep136 - I went to the State of the Union representing Black Infant and Maternal Health! Feb 12, 2020

I was honored with the opportunity to attend the State of the Union as a guest of my Congressman Donald McEachin. Yes, you read right last Tuesday, February 4, 2020 I traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the most controversial SOTU we have seen. Imagine being in the room where you can cut the tension with a knife of a sitting president who has been impeached and is attempting to convince the American people to reelect him for another 4 years. I loved every minute of the politics and pomp and circumstance. This episode I take you on that journey with me to DC to the Capitol and what I learned about sowing seeds and reaping the harvest.

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Ep135 - Marriage, Motherhood, and Overcoming Loss with Quenesha West Feb 06, 2020

Can you imagine getting engaged, finding out you are pregnant, and losing your baby all within a years time? Today's guest knows exactly how that feels so much she has decided to share her journey to motherhood. Quenesha West was managing graduate school getting her Masters in Social Work when she was surprised with an engagement and six days later she found out she was pregnant. With marriage and motherhood on the horizon while managing graduate school work and a full time job, Quenesha shares her loss story in today's episode. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced loss after experiencing a high with achieving your other goals in life.

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Ep134 -Incompetent Cervix and Transabdominal Cerclage (TAC) with Vu-An Foster Jan 29, 2020

Have you heard of the term Incompetent Cervix? or Trans Abdominal Cerclage?

An incompetent cervix, also called a cervical insufficiency, occurs when weak cervical tissue causes or contributes to premature birth or the loss of an otherwise healthy pregnancy. In a transabdominal cerclage procedure, a gynecologic surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen near the bikini line. Through this transabdominal incision, the surgeon places a small, woven synthetic band high on the cervix. The band supports the cervix, preventing it from opening and losing the pregnancy.

Today's guest has experienced a diagnosis of an incompetent cervix twice with the loss of her first daughter in 2017 and second daughter in 2018. Vu-An Foster is the founder of Life After Two Losses and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Incompetent Cervix Advocate. After her losses she shares in this episode her decision for in advance of another pregnancy to receive a transabdominal cerclage to prevent her cervix from opening and losing another baby in the future. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had recurrent miscarriages in the 2nd trimester and have received a transvaginal cerclage or considering a transabdominal cerclage.

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Ep133 - Overcoming Post-Abortive Reproductive Trauma with Massage with Amber Davis Jan 22, 2020

What does life look like post abortion? Today's guest knows exactly what post abortive life and redemption looks like. Amber Davis is a Massage Therapist who emphasis on post-abortive care awareness and maternal wellness. In this episode she takes us back to her story of overcoming reproductive trauma and how it has led her to her work. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what healing post-abortion looks like and how to overcome reproductive trauma.

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Ep132 - Stillbirth is Still a Birth with LaQuinda Johnson Jan 15, 2020

A stillbirth is still a birth! "And once the storm is over you won't remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won't even be sure, in fact, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm you won't be the same person who walked in."

Today's guest LaQuinda Johnson felt exactly that way as she shares her journey to motherhood including losing her stillbirth son at 6 months pregnant. She takes us back on the journey to having her daughter, getting pregnant with her son and how it was filled with anxiety and fears, and the day she found out her son died in utero. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth because a stillbirth is still a birth.

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Ep131 - Increase in Fertility Treatments amongst Blacks with Torria Driver with Fertility Centers of Illinois Jan 08, 2020

Since November 2018 when Michelle Obama released her memoir "Becoming" many fertility centers have seen an increase in treatments amongst blacks including today's sponsor Fertility Centers of Illinois. I had the pleasure of talking with Torria Driver, the Lead Medical Assistant and Resource Team at Fertility Centers of Illinois. In today's episode Torria shares her personal IVF journey conceiving her twins. She also shares her 20+ year experience caring for patients especially African Americans, how we can utilize our PCP for testing to ensure we minimize out of pocket expenses during fertility treatments, and why black women particularly should freeze their eggs. This episode is for you to listen if you have considered freezing your eggs, understand what IVF is, and how to use your insurance to your advantage to reduce out of pocket expenses. Please contact Fertility Centers of Illinois !

Do I Have Fertility Coverage? - This Fertility Centers of Illinois blog discusses mandated states, questions to ask your employer, what you should ask your insurer, and tips to ensure you're maximizing the coverage you have.

FertilityIQ - Free IVF: Grants and Charities - This is a detailed national list of grants and charities broken down into several categories (national, patient specific, state specific, prescription assistance, clinic specific). While this is not listed on the link, Fertility Centers of Illinois gives away one IVF cycle per year to Fertility for Colored Girls.

Participating In Medical Studies - An additional way to access free or discounted treatment is to participate in a medical study. To learn more about medical studies in your area, find a reputable facility with a research program. Fertility centers that have research departments are commonly the larger or largest clinics in the area, and/or they are part of a university medical school. At Fertility Centers of Illinois, we list our research studies here. This website claims to list all clinical research trials and you can search by IVF, although we cannot confirm it is updated regularly.

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Ep130 - New Year! Resilience to Endure! Jan 01, 2020

Happy New Year 2020! We have entered into a new year, and a new decade. Another opportunity to live out our purpose for our lives, for our angel babies, and future babies. It is a time to continue on the journey to healing, restoration, with hope and peace. In today’s episode I share my word of the year and a recap of all that was accomplished with Sisters in Loss in 2019 and my goals for 2020 for the podcast and business.

My main goal of 2020 is to continue to be Resilient!

My word of 2020 is Resilience! Resilience means

the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity.

Resilience is you! Resilience is me! I am walking into 2020 Resilient as ever! How about you? How do you plan to be resilient in 2020? Share with me on instagram or in the sisters in loss facebook community at sistersinloss.com.

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Ep129 - REWIND - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss with Tanika Dillard Dec 25, 2019

Merry Christmas to you and your family! Remembering the Angels today as we celebrate with our family and friends. To all my moms in waiting God has not forgotten you continue to hold onto hope in 2020!

Today's episode is a REWIND episode back to Episode 19 with Tanika Dillard, Grief Specialist, TEDx Speaker, and Author of "Building a Family Breaks my Heart."

Tanika Dillard shares her recurrent pregnancy loss story including 2nd trimester miscarriages and a stillbirth. Tanika Dillard is a natural leader, motivational speaker, and trusted counselor to her peers. She is a credentialed certified birth and bereavement doula, where she offers compassionate physical, emotional, and spiritual support to expectant families in any trimester and any birth outcome. Tanika's passion for breaking the silence of pregnancy loss positioned her as founding member and Facilitator for Share Upstate Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Group. Her efforts to honor the lives of her children and increase awareness on the taboo subject have uniquely connected her with medical professionals and grieving families across the globe. In August 2014, Tanika embarked upon a new phase in the literary revolution by releasing "Building A Family Breaks My Heart"; a best selling novel inspired by her blog writings. "Building A Family Breaks My Heart" is a magnificent work of heart, capturing the essence of despair from loss and the beauty of dreams fulfilled. The novel is sure to capture and connect the hearts of those who have experienced pregnancy loss, infertility, or supporters of those who have. Today's episode is for you listen to if you have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and the journey to building a family.

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Ep128 - Blighted Ovum and Secondary Infertility with Angelica Gunn Dec 18, 2019

Have you heard of the term blighted ovum? A blighted ovum happens when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall, but the embryo does not develop. Cells develop to form the pregnancy sac, but not the embryo itself. A blighted ovum occurs within the first trimester, often before a woman knows she is pregnant.

Today's guest experienced a blighted ovum on her secondary infertility journey. Angelica Gunn had her miracle daughter after experiencing preeclampsia and a NICU stay, she was ready to grow her family. After months of trying with no diagnosis she found out she was pregnant at her 7 week appointment there was no heartbeat. Angelica waited until 12 weeks for an ultrasound to find out she had a blighted ovum a sac without an embryo. She then experienced two more difficult miscarriages before getting pregnant with her rainbow baby. In this episode Angelica takes us on her secondary infertility journey, her 3 miscarriages, and her rainbow pregnancy journey. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a blighted ovum, secondary infertility or a miscarriage and how sharing your story will help others.

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Ep127 - Losing a Baby during the Holidays with Janelle Jones Dec 11, 2019

From middle school to high school to adult hood who knew losing babies would bring friends together. Today's guest is my friend from middle school and high school and her strength sharing her story on Facebook inspired me to share mine.

Janelle Jones is a women's ministry leader at her church, singer, and has a testimony to share of overcoming loss, depression, and grief. She gave birth to her son in 2008 and a daughter in 2009 that she thought she was going to have to give up for adoption. Janelle heard from God to keep her baby girl and did not understand why until she lost her on Christmas Eve 2009. In today's episode, we go back to Janelle's decision to give her daughter up for adoption, losing her during the Holiday season, and how her friendships have stood the test of time. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever lost a baby during the holiday season.

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Ep126 - Twin Loss and Life After Loss Non Profit with Tiara Nicole Dec 04, 2019

Grief during the Holidays is difficult. Imagine losing one twin in utero followed by the loss of the other is what today's guest was faced to overcome.

Tiara Nicole found out one of her boy twins Christian passed away on her 25th birthday (after passing 6 weeks prior). She then was faced with the news 3 weeks later that her other twin Christopher had suffered from brain damage. Tiara delivered both twins in October 2016 and has made it her mission everyday to live a life they would be proud of. In this episode Tiara takes us back on her journey, finding out she was pregnant with twins, how she survived the grief of twin loss, and her non profit Life After Loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a twin loss or want to understand how to survive grief especially during the holidays.

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EP125 - Battling Infertility and Blocked Fallopian Tubes due to Hydrosalpinx with Lauren Shirk Nov 27, 2019

Have you heard of Hydrosalpinx? Hydrosalpinx refers to a fallopian tube that's blocked with a watery fluid. To break down the term, “hydro” means water and “salpinx” means Fallopian tube.

Today’s guest suffered from heavy and painful periods and knew something wasn’t right. She and her husband had been trying for over a year and she could not get pregnant. Lauren Shirk sought the help of an OB/GYN to understand exactly what was happening to her body. She went in for a HSG and was diagnosed with hydrosalpinx or blocked Fallopian tubes. Lauren underwent surgery to unblock her tubes, that was successful, but she then was diagnosed with endometriosis. In this episode Lauren takes us on her journey to motherhood, how both diagnosis have made her more determined than ever to become a mother, and the next steps in her journey. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a block Fallopian tube or diagnosed with endometriosis and suffer from painful periods.

Episode Sponsor: BetterHelp.com Join BetterHelp by using our link at betterhelp.com/sisters

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EP124 - Incompetent Cervix and Baby Loss with Shalika Bethel Nov 20, 2019

How do you learn how to build life after loss?

Today’s guest is doing exactly that learning how to rebuild her life after loss by God’s grace. Shalika Bethel is an angel mom to two baby boys due to a incompetent cervix. In this episode she takes us on her journey to motherhood, how she has learned to accept her babies are not here physically, and how she is rebuilding by God’s grace.

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EP123 - Recurrent Miscarriages and Infertility with Vernetta Stewart Nov 13, 2019

Black women Heal when they are surrounded by other black women.

Today’s guest truly believes and embodies that motto. Vernetta Stewart, also known as Chef Vernetta is the founder of Footprints of Angels a nonprofit organization aimed to support women impacted by infertility and recurrent miscarriages. This nonprofit organization provides women with support so they can no longer live in silence and shame. In this episode Vernetta takes us on her journey of recurrent miscarriages and becoming the mom of 3 Angel babies. She also shares how her non profit is helping women like her with fertility challenges. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what life after loss looks like.

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EP122 - IUD Infection and Stillbirth with Jordan Johnson Nov 06, 2019

Can you imagine getting pregnant while on birth control?

Today’s guest was surprised when she found out she was expecting after having an IUD. Yes, she beat the odds and conceived while on birth control. Jordan Johnson is a United States Naval Officer and moved from DC to CA while pregnant. Two weeks after celebrating her baby shower she ended up in the hospital and the baby did not have a heartbeat. At 29 weeks she was told she would have to deliver her son naturally because he was so big. He came out breech and she experienced PTSD in the delivery room. Jordan shares in this episode how her IUD caused an infection thus causing hemorrhaging around her umbilical cord. In her pregnancy after loss with her daughter she shares the steps the doctors took to ensure her and her baby were safe and healthy. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been on birth control, are currently on birth control, and how her IUD caused infection in her womb.

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EP121 - Infant Loss and NICU Negligence by Aubri Cabness Oct 30, 2019

This is the last week of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. We have been honoring and celebrating our babies who have gone to heaven far too soon all month long.

Negligence. Unfair Treatment due to Systemic Racism. Killing of a Premature Baby. All of the words and sayings that come to mind when I think of today’s guest. Aubri Cabness delivered her son Sebastien prematurely and 3 days later in the NICU his health started to decline. He was left off oxygen for 24 hours after being born at 1lb and 13oz. His trachea was punctured, lungs lacerated, and esophagus perforated. He died of sepsis in his mother’s arms due to the NICU negligence. In this episode Aubri takes us back on that journey to her recovery, how her story is connectlng other moms who experienced the same trauma at the same hospital, and what justice looks like for her to grieve and heal. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever experienced racial bias and trauma in the medical system.

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EP120 - Pregnancy after Miscarriage with Sherita Thompson Oct 23, 2019

October is here and it is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Join us all month long as we honor and celebrate our babies who have gone to heaven far too soon.

Pregnancy after a miscarriage can be filled with many fears, anxious thoughts, and nervousness that you may lose another baby. Today’s guest shares how her faith fueled her desire to continue to try again after her miscarriage. Sherita Thompson experienced a miscarriage while on a trip helping friends babysit and was devastated. She returned from her trip and realized she hadn’t prayed about it because she was angry and frustrated at herself. In this episode Sherita takes us on her grief journey towards healing, how her faith and prayer helped her conceive her rainbow baby a month after her miscarriage, and encouragement for those moms who are overwhelmed. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage and want to know what pregnancy after a miscarriage with faith and prayer is like.

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EP119 - Pregnancy after Stillbirth with Tierra Hucke Oct 16, 2019

October is here and it is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Join us all month long as we honor and celebrate our babies who have gone to heaven far too soon.

Can you imagine having a doula and midwife, but still experience a stillbirth? Today’s guest had that experience. She was healthy, ate right, worked out consistently, and even worked with a midwife and doula at a birthing center throughout her pregnancy. At 36 weeks after a baby moon life changed for Tierra Hucke. She went to the hospital because she didn’t feel the baby move and was told the baby did not have a heartbeat. In this episode she shares her journey through grief, getting pregnant 2 months after loss, and delivery of her rainbow baby 11 months after she lost her son Jameson. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth, and want to know what pregnancy after stillbirth journey is like.

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EP118 - Stillbirth and PTSD in Zimbabwe and Chiedza Makwara Oct 09, 2019

October is here and it is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Join us all month long as we honor and celebrate our babies who have gone to heaven far too soon.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss is not only a United States concern, but its worldwide. Today’s guest is from the continent (yes that continent that many think is a country) Africa. She experienced a stillbirth at 32 weeks in her home country of Zimbabwe. In this episode Chiedza Makwara shares how pregnancy loss is still a taboo concept in Zimbabwe, how she experienced depression and PTSD after her loss, and how she is using her blog and platform to bring awareness to stillbirth.

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EP117 - Recurrent Miscarriages and Male Factory Infertility with Tamika Henderson Oct 02, 2019

October is here and it is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Join us all month long as we honor and celebrate our babies who have gone to heaven far too soon.

Have you heard of male factor infertility? Male Factor infertility can be caused due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices, and other factors that lead to infertility.

Today’s guest shares her recurrent miscarriage story and journey where her husband is experiencing secondary infertility by way of male factor.

Tamika Henderson had miscarriages in 2016, 2017, and 2018, and it became so routine she knew she was miscarrying. After consulting with a fertility doctor she found out her fertility was due to male factor which was shocking because her husband already had two children. In this episode she takes us back on that journey to healing, and her next steps in her fertility treatments. This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of male factor fertility and how it effects a marriage.

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EP116 - I had my abortion and son on the same day! Sep 25, 2019

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. With the 2020 presidential election around the corner, states like Alabama, Georgia, and recently Missouri are attempting to pass laws to reduce gestation age for abortions up to banning abortions all together, thus attempting to overturn Roe. vs. Wade.

For September we are exploring the healing and grief side of abortion on the Sisters in Loss Podcast. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

Today’s episode is a solo episode as I am sharing my own personal abortion story. I have never told this story on this podcast, and wanted to share my truth to release the hurt, embarrassment, and shame I have worked through with therapy and carried around with me so many years. August 19, 2004 is a day I will never forget. It is also a day I almost lost my life ten years later giving birth to my rainbow baby boy. This episode is for you to listen to learn more about the healing that takes place post abortion and loss.

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EP115 - Eliminating Shame, Guilt, and Regret with Post-Abortive Women with Latoya Matthews Sep 18, 2019

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. With the 2020 presidential election around the corner, states like Alabama, Georgia, and recently Missouri are attempting to pass laws to reduce gestation age for abortions up to banning abortions all together, thus attempting to overturn Roe. vs. Wade.

For September we are exploring the healing and grief side of abortion on the Sisters in Loss Podcast. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

When today’s guest became pregnant with her daughter she sobbed to a friend “how was she going to take care of one when she had given up another” Latoya Matthews shares her abortion story, how post-partum depression along with guilt and shame of her abortion came alive after having her daughter, and how she has turned her pain into power by helping other post-abortive women eliminate shame, guilt, and regret of their abortions.

This episode is for you to listen to if you are ready to release the shame and stigma of having an abortion and want a community to help you.

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EP114 - Stress and Depression led to decision to Abort Pregnancy with Tiffany Nicole Sep 11, 2019

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. With the 2020 presidential election around the corner, states like Alabama, Georgia, and recently Missouri are attempting to pass laws to reduce gestation age for abortions up to banning abortions all together, thus attempting to overturn Roe. vs. Wade.

For September we are exploring the healing and grief side of abortion on the Sisters in Loss Podcast. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

After becoming unexpectedly pregnant at 28 today’s guest fell into a deep depression due to the circumstances of her pregnancy. Tiffany Nicole takes us back on the journey toward healing from shame and stigma of abortion, and losing an ex to another woman. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever been in a situation when you were stressed and depressed it made you physically ill, and how love and therapy can move you out of that depressed state.

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EP113 - Naming a Baby that was Electively Terminated with Raina Brown Sep 04, 2019

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. With the 2020 presidential election around the corner, states like Alabama, Georgia, and recently Missouri are attempting to pass laws to reduce gestation age for abortions up to banning abortions all together, thus attempting to overturn Roe. vs. Wade.

For September we are exploring the healing and grief side of abortion on the Sisters in Loss Podcast. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound.

After being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) today’s guest was surprised when she found out she was pregnant and the child’s father asked her to terminate the pregnancy. Raina Brown shares intimate details of her choice to terminate her pregnancy, how she conquered grief, and how she is healing by identifying and naming her baby she never had a chance to hold. This episode is for you to listen to if you ever have been in a relationship and had to make a decision that was life altering like deciding to have an abortion.

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EP112 - Hypo-plastic Left Heart Syndrome and Peace with Child Loss with Taysha Turman Aug 28, 2019

Imagine at your first doctors appointment being told your baby had fluid around their heart? After being advised to wait until the baby had grown to conduct a full anatomy screening, today’s guest was faced with devastating news. Taysha Turman found out at 16 weeks that her baby was diagnosed with hypo-plastic left heart syndrome and a diaphragmatic hernia. The doctors advised her to terminate her pregnancy, but she kept her faith in God and trusted God throughout her pregnancy and birth. Her baby boy had a traumatic birth receiving chest compressions and died 3 months later due to his heart condition. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced child loss and how to find peace after loss.

Today’s SponsorHonest stories of pregnancy, parenthood and loss are too often left unshared. We are here to tell the real stories. Join mom, actress and advocate, Tatyana Ali to hear real stories about the joys and humor of parenting to the heartbreak and loneliness of miscarriage and loss in a new podcast from March of Dimes. Each episode features a parent’s honest story about the realities of starting a family. It only takes hearing one story like your own to know you are not alone. To join the conversation, go to UnspokenStories.org and MarchofDimes.org. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @MarchofDimes.

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EP111 - Congenital Heart Disease and Healing from Child Loss with Chappy Morgan Aug 21, 2019

After being diagnosed at 18 years old with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) today’s guest was told she was unable to have children. At 31, Chappy Morgan lost a significant amount of weight and was surprised when she found out she was expecting. During an ultrasound she found out her son was sick and was going to suffer from heart problems specifically congenital heart disease. Chappy shares in this episode how she fought for her son Messiah, is healing from child loss, and continues to share Messiah’s message through #MessiahStrong

Today’s SponsorHonest stories of pregnancy, parenthood and loss are too often left unshared. We are here to tell the real stories. Join mom, actress and advocate, Tatyana Ali to hear real stories about the joys and humor of parenting to the heartbreak and loneliness of miscarriage and loss in a new podcast from March of Dimes. Each episode features a parent’s honest story about the realities of starting a family. It only takes hearing one story like your own to know you are not alone. To join the conversation, go to UnspokenStories.org and MarchofDimes.org. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @MarchofDimes.

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EP110 - Maternal Near Miss Survivor and H.E.L.L.P. Syndrome with Tomeka Issac Aug 14, 2019

Imagine being told that your baby had no fetal heartbeat one month from their due date? Today’s guest Tomeka Issac takes us back to that very moment where she and her husband were faced with the news no parent ever wants to hear that her son Jace was not going to make it. Then they were dealt another blow that she was diagnosed with H.E.L.L.P Syndrome (Hemolysis Elevated Liver Enzymes Low Platelet) which is pre-eclampsia on steroids and she was dying. This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of H.E.L.L.P. Syndrome and how God covers you so that you can survive and thrive after a near death birth experience.

Today’s SponsorHonest stories of pregnancy, parenthood and loss are too often left unshared. We are here to tell the real stories. Join mom, actress and advocate, Tatyana Ali to hear real stories about the joys and humor of parenting to the heartbreak and loneliness of miscarriage and loss in a new podcast from March of Dimes. Each episode features a parent’s honest story about the realities of starting a family. It only takes hearing one story like your own to know you are not alone. To join the conversation, go to UnspokenStories.org and MarchofDimes.org. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @MarchofDimes.

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EP109 - Overcoming Endometriosis After Losing Ovary & Fallopian Tube with Bria Burrell Aug 07, 2019

Have you ever suffered from painful periods?

Today’s guest Bria Burrell has always had painful periods, and in 2015 she found out there was an cyst on her left ovarian. Her OB/GYN monitored the cyst for a couple of months, until it started to grow. In order to prevent the cyst from rupturing the OB/GYN performed a laparoscopic procedure in January 2016. The cyst dominated the left part of Bria’s pelvic cavity, and therefore, they had to remove her left ovarian and Fallopian tube, and during this procedure it was determined she had endometriosis. She had many complications from that surgery that left her bowel perforated resulting in her wearing a temporary colostomy bag. Bria takes us on the next steps of her journey to motherhood in this podcast where she undergoes fertility treatments and 2 rounds of IVF, that has resulted in two miscarriages.

This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis or have lost a Fallopian tube or ovary.

Today’s SponsorHonest stories of pregnancy, parenthood and loss are too often left unshared. We are here to tell the real stories. Join mom, actress and advocate, Tatyana Ali to hear real stories about the joys and humor of parenting to the heartbreak and loneliness of miscarriage and loss in a new podcast from March of Dimes. Each episode features a parent’s honest story about the realities of starting a family. It only takes hearing one story like your own to know you are not alone. To join the conversation, go to UnspokenStories.org and MarchofDimes.org. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @MarchofDimes.

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EP108 - Losing your Baby and Losing your Womb with Alexus Harris Oluyole Jul 31, 2019

Losing your baby and losing your womb and ability to have more children is what today’s guest had to face. Alexus Harris Oluyole lost her son Maverick at 21 weeks due to pregnancy complications and had to have a partial hysterectomy to save her life.

Alexus Harris Oluyole was devastated as she had to navigate the grief of losing her son and losing her ability to bear more children. God was her anchor during this time and lead her to write a book Peace That Supersedes to help encourage women who are going through challenges with fertility, pregnancy loss, or child loss.

In this episode Alexus takes us on her healing journey, the challenges she face with seeing babies everywhere, and her path forward to motherhood.

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EP107 - Overcoming Secondary Infertility with Jessica Hortman Jul 24, 2019

After experiencing three losses today’s guest felt ashamed and guilty of her grief as she experienced secondary infertility with already having two children.

Jessica Hortman had a spontaneous miscarriage in 2015 at 6 weeks, a miscarriage due to a submucosal fibroid at 10 weeks in 2016, two years years of not getting pregnant, and then finding out she had a fibroid in 50 percent of my uterus. After having the fibroid removed, Jessica had an ectopic pregnancy in 2018.

In today’s episode Jessica takes us back on how she navigated her emotions of grief while still being a mother, and how she is overcoming secondary infertility.

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EP106 - My Birthday Episode, Sisters in Loss Online Community, Conference, and Magazine Announcements Jul 17, 2019

Go shawty its your birthday, we gonna party like its your birthday. Ayeeee!

Today is my 34th birthday yall! I’m so excited to celebrate another year around the sun. There is no place I’d rather be than in the guest chair myself talking about Sisters in Loss and the amazing Jesus year I just experienced. I can not put into words what God has done in my life, I can truly say that I’m blessed. I do have a testimony. I’ll save that announcement for another day, but I do have a request of you.

My birthday wish is for you to rate and review the podcast. Even if you have reviewed before your feedback means the world to me. It helps me craft a better podcast, produce more dynamic shows, and ensure we are meeting and exceeding your needs as a Sister in Loss. My prayer is that I receive 34 new reviews in honor of my 34th birthday. Thank you so much in advance for reviewing the podcast and for listening, tuning in, joining in the discussion in our private facebook community and so much more.

I’m so excited to share with my podcast sisters all that has been happening behind the scenes with Sisters in Loss.

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EP105 - What does Life After Baby Loss look like? Life after Lakhanya with Yonela Rasi Jul 10, 2019

What does Life After Baby Loss look like? Feel like? Appear to be for everyone like today’s guest. Yonela Rasi is the mother of two angels. One baby she loss at 16 weeks and the other a stillbirth at 38 weeks. In this episode she takes us on that journey of becoming a mother at 24 in South Africa, the black community there and how baby loss is not talked about, and how she started the Lakhanya Foundation in honor of her angels. Today’s episode is for you to listen to if you have wonder what does life after baby loss look like for me? Today’s guest shares exactly what it means to her.

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EP104 - Healing from Miscarriage and Birthing a Miracle Micropreemie at 26 weeks with Carrita Flie Jul 03, 2019

After two miscarriages today’s guest experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks. Carrita Flie would not have chosen this journey to motherhood. After her miscarriages, one in the first trimester and one in the second, she was labeled high risk and had to see a specialist weekly when she became pregnant with her rainbow baby. At 21 weeks she was told her cervix was shortened and received a cerclage. Even though Carrita had a cerclage she experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks and her son spent 117 days in the NICU. In this episode she takes us back to how she healed from her miscarriages, going into labor at 26 weeks, and raising a micropreemie.

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EP103 - Feeling like you may never experience Motherhood after Miscarriages with Jasmine M. Mason Jun 26, 2019

Have you felt you may never experience motherhood? Today’s guest felt exactly that way after experiencing two miscarriages. Jasmine Moore experienced her first miscarriage in 2016 at 11 weeks cause was a blighted ovum. In 2018 she experienced her second miscarriage at 19 weeks due to natural causes. Jasmine takes us back on her journey to motherhood in this episode and shares the pain of not ever experiencing motherhood.

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EP102 - Healing from Miscarriage & Still Desiring to become a Mother with Crystal Justice Jun 19, 2019

Being raised in a Christian faith based home, and respecting the unspoken rule of not having children out of wedlock, today’s guest began her journey to motherhood at 38 years old. Crystal Justice found out she was pregnant on Aug 9, 2018. On Sept 7, 2018 she was told that the pregnancy was no longer viable. Despite my HCG levels and Progesterone levels being normal her D&C was scheduled on Sept 11, 2018 which is was her partner’s birthday. In this episode Crystal takes us back to that day and how her faith has helped her heal from miscarriage. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a miscarriage, maybe advanced maternal age, and still have the desire to become a mother.

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EP101 - Shawn Owen's Uterine Fibroids Journey and Pregnancy After Miscarriage Jun 12, 2019

90% of African Americans women have fibroids and today’s guest shares her miscarriage story and rainbow pregnancy with fibroids. Shawn Owens found out she was expecting as she was preparing for an outpatient procedure. She and her husband were shocked by the news due to her diagnosis with uterine fibroids and her being 38 years old. Shawn wanted to wait to share the news with her family around Father’s Day. She ended up in the Emergency Room a week before Fathers Day with severe pain and bleeding. The doctors could not detect a heartbeat and sent her home with medication for pain to miscarry with no direction.

In today’s episode Shawn takes us back to that day and then shares when she was ready to try again to conceive her rainbow baby which pregnancy came with many challenges like bleeding, being placed on bed rest, and not being able to walk due to the size of her 5 fibroids.

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EP100 - 100th Sisters in Loss Podcast Episode - MTY Retreat Experience and The Momference Jun 05, 2019

100 Episodes we are here! I’m so thrilled that you are apart of the Sisters in Loss family. My goal when starting this podcast was to share our stories, stories of phenomenal, resilient, amazing black women to remove the shame, stigma, and silence around pregnancy and infant loss and infertility. In this episode I share my travels over the last month. My first stop was in Cancun, Mexico at the My Taught You Retreat hosted by Myleik Teele of CurlBOX. I share my experience and nuggets that were dropped from being in the room. I then spoke on a panel at The MOMference in Washington, DC where I spoke on infant loss and infertility. This is the conference for black moms, moms to be, and moms in waiting. I also share what’s next for the Sisters in Loss community and why you need to join us at SistersinLoss.com

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EP99 - Brittany Bronson's Chemical Pregnancy and Unexplained Infertility Diagnosis May 29, 2019

Have you heard of the term Chemical Pregnancy? Well in today’s episode our guest Brittany Bronson explains her journey to motherhood began with 2 chemical pregnancies and one blighted ovum. She was referred to a reproductive endocrinologist only to be diagnosed with unexplained infertility. They endured 2 rounds of fertility medication with no luck and decided to take a break. A month later they conceived their rainbow baby Carter naturally. In this episode she takes us on that journey of being pregnant after loss and infertility. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to learn about a Chemical pregnancy, blighted ovum, and stepping out on faith to trust God during your journey to motherhood.

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EP98 - Tanisha Garnier's 2nd Trimester Loss and 25 week Miracle May 22, 2019

Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as 3 consecutive losses prior to 20 weeks gestation. Today’s guest Tanisha Garnier has experienced a loss of her son Xavier Lawrence at 21 weeks due to a short cervix that wasn’t detected until her 19 week ultrasound. Tanisha also has beat infertility from being diagnosed with PCOS and having a history of not ovulating because of irregular periods. She was able to conceive Xavier after a few months of fertility treatments with her OB, and after a year she tried again, and in this episode, she has birthed her miracle and rainbow baby Ezra Joy at 25 weeks. In this episode we had to reschedule due to a scare of preterm birth in her pregnancy, and we could chat about her experience in the NICU thus far with Ezra. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with PCOS, incompetent cervix, had a micropreemie and extended NICU stay.

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EP97 - Tori Alamaze's Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Journey and Trans Abdominal Cerclage May 15, 2019

Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as 3 consecutive losses prior to 20 weeks gestation. Today’s guest Tori Alamaze has carried and birth 4 babies, but only has one living child the other 3 babies died due to incompetent cervix and a recurrent pregnancy loss diagnosis. In today’s episode Tori shares her journey to motherhood after receiving vaginal cerclages and having them fail at 24 weeks with her son Issa and at 21 weeks with her boy/girl twins. She knew she needed to research to understand what was happening to her body and she found abbeyloopers.com. From her research she knew she would be a great candidate for a Trans Abdominal Cerclage and in this episode she takes us back on the journey to making the decision to undergo major abdominal surgery prior to conceiving to have her rainbow baby girl. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss and want to understand more about cerclages and trans abdominal cerclages.

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EP96 - Halima Edge on How to Seek God for Healing, Understanding and Restoration after Loss May 08, 2019

May is always a difficult and painful month for us Sisters in Loss. I’m here to let you know that You're Still a Mother on Mother's Day and everyday of the year, if You've Had a Miscarriage, Infant Loss, Stillbirth, and Infertility Challenges. Celebrate Mother’s Day in your own special way, and reflect on your baby in heaven and the future babies that will be here with you on earth. I love you Sisters in Loss and know that we are here to support you, love on you, and encourage you in every way. Join us in our private community at SistersinLoss.com

In today’s episode we have Halima Edge who shares her 2nd trimester miscarriage story and how her rainbow baby healed her. Halima shares in this episode the traumatic birth she had a 20 weeks and how she turned to God for healing, understanding, and restoration. The doctors could not diagnose her with premature labor or incompetent cervix so when she became pregnant again with her rainbow baby she received a cerclage due to her previous cervical challenges. Her rainbow baby boy was born at 39 weeks after overcoming the fear of losing him and healing throughout the pregnancy. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been pregnant after loss and how to seek God for healing, understanding, and restoration.

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EP95 - Kieona Fairley Stillbirth Journey and London’s Footprints Book May 01, 2019

May is always a difficult and painful month for us Sisters in Loss. I’m here to let you know that You're Still a Mother on Mother's Day and everyday of the year, if You've Had a Miscarriage, Infant Loss, Stillbirth, and Infertility Challenges. Celebrate Mother’s Day in your own special way, and reflect on your baby in heaven and the future babies that will be here with you on earth. I love you Sisters in Loss and know that we are here to support you, love on you, and encourage you in every way. Join us in our private community at SistersinLoss.com

In today’s episode we have Kieona Fairley who shares her stillbirth story of son London and her book London’s Footprints. Kieona shares in this episode how her water broke during Thanksgiving 2011 at 41 weeks pregnant only to find out her son London did not have a heartbeat. She recounts this traumatic experience and how she is using her story to help heal herself and others through her book London’s footprints. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a Stillbirth or want to know how to use your story to heal others by becoming an author.

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EP94 - Tabitha Franklin's Infertility Journey and using the Fertility Awareness Method to conceive her Rainbow Baby Apr 24, 2019

April is what we call our Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month. All month long we have been talking to women who have had fertility challenges, gone through alternative fertility treatments like IUI or IVF, and continue to push through the barriers to grow their families.

In this last episode of this series we have Tabitha Franklin who shares her miscarriage, infant loss story, and infertility journey using the Fertility Awareness method. Tabitha is an English teacher in the Chicago suburbs and has been married for over 6 years. She shares how she got off birth control when she was married and charted her cycles using the Fertility Awareness Method. She was able to conceive, but soon after she miscarried. Tabitha went on to try again and was able to conceive and carry her daughter Parker to 24 weeks when she had her prematurely and she lived for 57 minutes. Tabitha was heartbroken she didn’t want to try again, but she knew since she was 39 she needed to retrieve eggs to freeze embryos. When she scheduled her egg retrieval she found out she was pregnant with her rainbow baby. In this episode Tabitha takes us on her infertility journey, infant loss story, and how her losses strengthened her marriage instead of tearing it apart. This episode is for you to listen to if you have considered charting your cycle and following the Fertility Awareness Method, and faith in the wait.

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EP93 - LaTaunya Andrews Infertility Journey with PCOS and Trusting God through the set backs Apr 17, 2019

April is what we call our Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month. All month long we will be talking to women who have had fertility challenges, gone through alternative fertility treatments like IUI or IVF, and continue to push through the barriers to grow their families.

In today’s episode as we end Black Maternal Health Week we have LaTaunya Andrews who shares her PCOS journey and infertility challenges. LaTaunya is a Navy Military wife residing in beautiful San Diego, California, while her husband is currently on deployment. LaTaunya was diagnosed with PCOS when she was 21, and her doctor told her she wouldn’t be able to have children. She started her journey to motherhood back in September 2015, after changing her lifestyle to shrink her cysts, she conceived in December 2016 with the help of Clomid. She was so happy and felt quite blessed, however on January 6, 2017 just 2 days after hearing the babies heartbeat for the first time she found out she was miscarrying. LaTaunya left the hospital defeated, but determined to have a baby. She went on to conceive again in January 2018 and that ended in a chemical pregnancy. In this episode LaTaunya shares where she is now currently in her journey after a hysteroscopy removing precancerous cells, hyperthyroidism diagnosis, and a benin tumor on her pituitary gland. LaTaunya is determined to bring home her rainbow baby and shares how she keeps going inspite of set back after set back, and how she stays grounded. This episode is for you to listen to if you have PCOS, hyperthyroidism, Pituitary gland tumor, or infertility challenges that make you question “why me God.”

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EP92 - Black Woman Birthing Justice with Dr. Sayida Peprah Apr 10, 2019

Tomorrow begins Black Maternal Health Week April 11-17, 2019 and there is no better way to kick off this week than talking to the women of the Birthing Justice movement. I had the pleasure of meeting these ladies this past December at the Black Mamas Matter Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. The work these women do around Maternal Health and Mortality is remarkable.

In today’s episode we have Dr. Sayida Peprah who is a doula, licensed clinical therapist, speaker, and member of the Black Birthing Justice movement. She shares what Birthing Justice movement is, why doulas are important, and what we can do to help the infant and mortality rates in our community.

Dr. Sayida Peprah’s Bio Dr. Sayida Peprah has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, with a Multicultural Clinical-Community Emphasis, from the California School of Professional Psychology, at Alliant International University. She completed her undergraduate studies in Psychology and Religion at Spelman College. Her specialties include multicultural psychology, trauma, suicide prevention and maternal mental health. Dr. Sayida has a strong belief in the importance of multicultural awareness and cultural competence/humility. In an effort to expand this in her work, she has participated in numerous international and cultural immersion studies. She has traveled to Ghana, Mexico, Egypt and India, studying mental health approaches, indigenous culture and local spiritual traditions.

Dr. Sayida has a multi-faced career as a supervisory-level Clinical Psychologist, an Associate Professor of Psychology for the University of Phoenix, and a consultant. She regularly offers multicultural/cross-cultural, mental health and maternal mental health trainings and workshops in the community and throughout the US, as well as serves on several mental health advisory committees. In 2014, she was a featured speaker at the United Nations 65thNGO Conference on the topic of Mental Illness, An Invisible Disability. In 2018, she served on the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative Maternal Suicide Review Committee, working with other health care providers and researchers to identify key factors in preventing maternal suicide.

Dr. Sayida is dedicated to contributing her expertise to uplift the community and improve the effectiveness of health care and social support services.

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EP91 - Tina Fuller’s Child Loss and Secondary Infertility and Healing Fibroids with Plant Based Diet Apr 03, 2019

April is what we call our Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month. All month long we will be talking to women who have had fertility challenges, gone through alternative fertility treatments like IUI or IVF, and continue to push through the barriers to grow their families. In today’s episode we have Tina Fuller, author and certified nutrition coach and my fellow plant based sister who shares her loss of her son who was tragically hit by a car and secondary infertility journey. Tina and her husband Rashon are the founders of FullerQuest, a holistic healing advocacy company. Tina shares in the this episode how she grieved the loss of her son when she was so young, how fibroids have played a role in her secondary infertility, and how changing her diet and switching to eating plant based and living a holistic lifestyle is how she is healing her body from fibroids. This episode is for you to listen to if you have fibroids (which most black women do have), and want to understand how to heal your body from the inside out by eating more plant based meals.

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EP90 - Benita Gordon's Grief from Divorce, Endometriosis, and failed IVF cycles Mar 27, 2019

March is Pregnancy After Loss Awareness month. This month we are discussing Pregnancy After Loss, but also loss of jobs, marriages, and family members as you grieve the loss of your angel. In today’s episode we have Benita Gordon who shares her infertility journey due to Endometriosis, IVF journey, and grief from divorce. She is a mother in waiting and Benita shares the other side of grief and how it impacts a marriage in this episode. Benita shares how endometriosis impacted her ability to conceive, going through 4 rounds of IVF, losing a twin pregnancy, losing her mother, and eventually losing her marriage. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever felt like throwing in the towel with your infertility journey, but want to know what it looks like on the other side of grief, loss, and divorce. Benita is candid in her story and I know it will bless you!

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EP89 - Keleah Brown's Grief from Lost Job and Losing one Twin in Pregnancy Mar 20, 2019

March is Pregnancy After Loss Awareness month. This month we are discussing Pregnancy After Loss, but also loss of jobs, marriages, and family members as you grieve the loss of your angel.

In today’s episode we have Keleah Brown who shares grief from losing a job and one twin during pregnancy. Keleah experienced two miscarriages; one before her current pregnancy and she lost a twin during this pregnancy. She has dealt with the stress of trying to conceive, being a mother and while pregnant, losing her job, miscarrying, homeschooling, high risk pregnancy, all while moving to a new state. All of Keleah’s experiences lead her to write her debut poetry collection titled “Carried: MOTHERHOOD | miscarriage.” Keleah shares in this episode how she has managed her grief through all of the trauma she has experienced and shares how it feels to carry one twin while grieving the loss of the other one. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced grief from lost of a job or a twin in pregnancy.

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EP88 - Shannon Duke's Grief from Losing her Mom & Recurrent Miscarriages Mar 13, 2019

March is Pregnancy After Loss Awareness month. This month we are discussing Pregnancy After Loss, but also loss of jobs, marriages, and family members as you grieve the loss of your angel. In today’s episode we have Shannon Duke. In June 2012 she had her first miscarriage. Shannon endured 3 more losses (Dec.2012, March 2014, July 2014), before she had Mackenzie at 21 weeks in March 2016. Shannon had to deliver her early due to severe pre-eclampsia. She then went on to have another miscarriage in Dec.2016, I lost my mother in June 2017, and suffered another miscarriage in Sept 2017. All of her losses except Mackenzie were missed miscarriages. She didn’t make it pass 8 or 9 weeks. Shannon then went on to have her rainbow baby her miracle named Gracyn was born on July 15,2018. Shannon has a story to tell and I’m excited to share her story with you.

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EP87 - Paige Johnson's Grief from Stillbirth and Losing Jobs and Family Mar 06, 2019

March is Pregnancy After Loss Awareness Month. This month we are discussing Pregnancy After Loss, but also lost of jobs, marriages, and family members as you grieve the loss of your angel. In today’s episode we have Paige Johnson who shares her stillbirth of baby girl Kody McKenna while battling panic attacks and depression. Paige is a momprenuer, wife, and rainbow mom who married her high school sweetheart after college. She lost everything after losing her baby girl Kody including her business, her grandmother, her brother in law, and her husband lost his job. In this episode she takes us back on that journey to having her first born while in college, losing Kody to stillbirth while grieving the loss of loved ones, losing jobs and business, and having her rainbow baby.

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Chasing Rainbows Podcast Website

EP86 - Couple Series: The Martin's Pregnancy Loss Journey with PCOS and Chasing Rainbows Podcast Feb 27, 2019

Pregnancy loss and infertility can be so hard on a marriage. It can either tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. In fact it is said that almost 80% of couples who experience a miscarriage or infertility end up in divorce. In this month of love we will be featuring 4 couples showing by prayer, faith in God, and a strong commitment to stay together their marriages endured the hard times of pregnancy loss and infertility.

This is the last couple in our series The Martin’s. They are fellow podcasters and have created Chasing Rainbows podcast documenting their infertility journey. In this episode they take us back to the beginning of their journey to parenthood, battling infertility with a PCOS diagnosis, how they grieved their son Noah they loss at 20 weeks, and how Starbucks is helping fund their IVF journey.

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EP85 - Couple Series: The McAfee's on Raising a Special Needs Child and Infertility Feb 20, 2019

Pregnancy loss and infertility can be so hard on a marriage. It can either tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. In fact it is said that almost 80% of couples who experience a miscarriage or infertility end up in divorce. In this month of love we will be featuring 4 couples showing by prayer, faith in God, and a strong commitment to stay together their marriages endured the hard times of pregnancy loss and infertility. In today’s episode I bring my husband Brandon O. McAfee on to talk about our challenges growing our family, raising a special needs child, and how we have weather the storm 7 years married and after our first loss. We discuss these last 3 weeks and how we spent 10 days in the hospital with our son fighting off a virus. How our village came to surround us with love, how we manage burn out, and ensure we are pouring into ourselves as well as into each other.

Brandon’s BioThe Reverend Brandon McAfee is the proud Pastor of Gaskins Chapel African Methodist Church (A.M.E) in Onancock, Virginia where the Right Reverend James L. Davis is the Presiding Bishop of the Second Episcopal District and Rev. Chester W. Morris is the Presiding Elder of the Norfolk-Eastern Shore District. Pastor McAfee was born in Cheverly, Maryland to Kyle and Cheryl McAfee. He is married to Erica McAfee and is the father of two heavenly angels, and a son, Master Maxwell McAfee.

He is a 2006 graduate of the University of Massachusetts- Amherst, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies and in 2010 he earned his Master’s of Divinity from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. It was at UMass, that Rev. McAfee joined B.A.S.I.C. (Brothers and Sisters in Christ), a ministry that would change his life forever. His first ministry assignment would be as a bible study leader at B.A.S.I.C. and a guest preacher at their Sunday Services. Through these experiences, he accepted his call to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ at the age of 21.

Rev. McAfee is guided by his favorite scripture, Proverbs 18:16, “A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.” Rev. McAfee has a heart to serve God’s people and is a humble laborer of God. His passion is to offer holistic ministry to meet the needs of all people.

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Gaskins Chapel Website

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EP84 - Couple Series: The Pruitt's Unexplained Infertility Journey and Gracefully Waiting Ministry Feb 13, 2019

Pregnancy loss and infertility can be so hard on a marriage. It can either tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. In fact it is said that almost 80% of couples who experience a miscarriage or infertility end up in divorce. In this month of love we will be featuring 4 couples showing by prayer, faith in God, and a strong commitment to stay together their marriages endured the hard times of pregnancy loss and infertility. In this episode we have the Pruitt’s who share their infertility journey and how they are gracefully waiting on their promise from God. Glenn and Natasha have been married for 4 years and live in Austin, Texas. They have never conceived so that lead to many doctor visits, trying different types of medicines, having procedures, many emotional rollercoaster, attempt to foster to adopt a teenager, which tested their marriage. Gracefully Waiting was birthed with anticipation of giving hope to other women battling infertility. The Hope Gift Boxes allows Natasha to share her story and start a conversation of giving hope in the midst of the storm. In this episode we learn how the Pruitt’s are gracefully waiting for their blessing while serving God and being faithful to the call on their lives as ministry leaders.

The Pruitt’s BioA little about us, Glenn and I have been married for 4 years and we are from Paris, Texas but live in Austin, TX. I’m an graduate from University of North Texas majored in Health education and currently working on Masters in Marriage and Families of Counseling to help families of color while dealing with infertility.

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EP83 - Couple Series: The Hutchinson's Infertility Journey and book "I Still Want to be a Mom" Feb 06, 2019

Pregnancy loss and infertility can be so hard on a marriage. It can either tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. In fact it is said that almost 80% of couples who experience a miscarriage or infertility end up in divorce. In this month of love we will be featuring 4 couples showing by prayer, faith in God, and a strong commitment to stay together their marriages endured the hard times of pregnancy loss and infertility. Today’s couple is The Hutchinson’s who share their infertility and IVF journey and new book “I Still Want to be A Mom.” Shara Hutchinson went through over six rounds of Clomid, two miscarriages, two laparoscopic surgeries, one D&C, two failed IVF cycles, one failed FET, an ectopic pregnancy, and was finally able to have her miracle baby from her third IVF cycle. In this episode she and her husband Todd share their journey to parenthood, how their faith helped them endure the disappointments, and how their miracle rainbow baby inspires them everyday.

Hutchinson’s Bio SHARA HUTCHINSON is a mom who had to conquer infertility to live her dream. She is the author of , “I Still Want To Be A Mom”, a book written (from experience)as a guide to help the reader navigate through infertility until having their baby. After over six rounds of Clomid, two miscarriages, two laparoscopic surgeries, one D&C, two failed IVF cycles, one failed FET, and an ectopic pregnancy, she was finally able to have her miracle baby from her third IVF cycle (fourth embryo transfer). She is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women who are struggling with infertility to pursue and achieve motherhood despite the many challenges they may face.

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EP82 - How to Support Your Friends during Miscarriage and Infertility with my BFF Amber Smith-St Louis (Part 2) Jan 30, 2019

The hardest part of going through a miscarriage or infertility is not having friends who can relate to this experience. How many of you had to distance yourself from your friends or friendships ended or shifted as a result of your loss or diagosis? Well, I have been blessed that this was not the case for me and my BFFs. If anything we have learned that our friendship can endure the best of times and the worse of times. In today’s episode we have my BFF of over 15 years on the show Amber Smith-St. Louis. Amber and I met in college at Virginia Commonwealth University in our first Chemical Engineering course and have been thick as thieves since. In this episode we just have girl chat and talk about how our friendship has evolved over the years. How we have supported each other through dark times, and how I am supporting her now in her new season trying to conceive after a miscarriage and Endometriosis diagnosis. This episode is for you if you have a BFF or girlfriends and want some inspiration on how I have maintained my friendships through my losses and infertility. This is part 2 of our girl chat.

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EP81 - How to Support Your Friends during Miscarriage and Infertility with my BFF Amber Smith-St Louis (Part 1) Jan 23, 2019

The hardest part of going through a miscarriage or infertility is not having friends who can relate to this experience. How many of you had to distance yourself from your friends or friendships ended or shifted as a result of your loss or diagnosis? Well, I have been blessed that this was not the case for me and my BFFs. If anything we have learned that our friendship can endure the best of times and the worse of times. In today’s episode we have my BFF of over 15 years on the show Amber Smith-St. Louis. Amber and I met in college at Virginia Commonwealth University in our first Chemical Engineering course and have been thick as thieves since. In this episode we just have girl chat and talk about how our friendship has evolved over the years. How we have supported each other through dark times, and how I am supporting her now in her new season trying to conceive after a miscarriage and Endometriosis diagnosis. This episode is for you if you have a BFF or girlfriends and want some inspiration on how I have maintained my friendships through my losses and infertility.

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EP80 - Sonhara Eastman's Black Girls Guide to Fertility Jan 16, 2019

There is a new webseries that has been all the buzz on Instagram, and its called Black Girls Guide to Fertility, created, written, and based on Sonhara' Eastman’s own battle with infertility. Black Girls Guide to Fertility tackles infertility in a profoundly intimate way that’s both dramatic and comedic without ever feeling rigid. It focuses on Ava, a 37-year old romance novelist, who faded into obscurity after finding love–and now finds herself on the rise again after self-publishing a diary detailing her fertility woes. Each episode is a recreation of Ava’s diary entry, adding a unique and compelling touch to the everyday struggle of infertility. I had the pleasure of prescreening the first two episodes and when I tell you, you do not want to miss this webseries. In this episode we discuss Sonhara’s vision, her personal infertility battle, and what is next with Black Girls Guide to Fertility. The webseries premieres on Friday, January 18, 2019 and if you are listening to this in real time that is two days away. Be sure to subscribe to their youtube page, and join us in the private Sisters in Loss community at sistersinloss.com for our Watch party on Tuesday, January 22 at 8pm EST.

Sonhara Eastman’s BioSonhara Eastman is a playwright and screenwriter from New York. She received her M.F.A. in Dramatic Writing at NYU Tisch, where she implemented the departments first-ever Black History Month Celebration through Art. Her plays are known for illuminating the black experience and include Pearl, The Club, and Black Girls Guide to Fertility. Sonhara’s plays have been workshopped at 7 Stages, The Classical Theatre of Harlem’s Playwrights Playground, Working Title Playwrights Ethel Woolson Lab at the Alliance Theatre (Black Box), The Goldberg Theatre at NYU, and the La MaMa Theatre. She was a finalist for the National Playwright’s Center Many Voices Fellowship and a semifinalist for the Made in New York Writer’s Room Program, and the We Screenplay Diverse Voices Competition. She has worked for numerous production companies such as E! Entertainment, MTV, ESPN, Lifetime, Lionsgate, and the Comcast Network. Sonhara is a member of the Writer’s Guild East and Dramatist Guild.

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EP79 - Relentless 2019! Growing my family in 2019 Jan 09, 2019

Happy New Year Sisters in Loss! Welcome to 2019! Today is a solo episode of the podcast where I share my word of the year and my personal infertility and growing my family journey.

Thank you to everyone who rated and reviewed the podcast this year. If you have never left us a review please do so now. Thank you to all of the guests on the podcast for sharing your story and your light during the 2018 year. 2019 is here and I’m excited about the interviews, stories, and journey’s to motherhood we will share.

So what does it mean to be relentless with our faith in Christ? Are we even sure we want to go down that road? Being relentless can sound noble and right, but it is also strangely elusive these days, especially regarding our faith.

Relentless means - showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or pace not softening or yielding in determination. And not letting up or weakening in vigor or pace.

It means not giving up when things get stale or boring (they will at times, even if you’re passionate)

It means facing the obstacles that inevitably get in the way in pursuit of something that will change your own life or change the world. Change is not easy.

It means being patient, knowing that if you consistently do everything you can to be successful at your goal, your time will come.

It means pursuing the goal even if others don’t get it. Some may think your goal is crazy, stupid, or not worth it. But they’re not you. They don’t want what you want. Such relentless pursuit of a dream or goal makes people uncomfortable because it reveals a lack of relentlessness and passion in their own lives. Get around other people in relentless pursuit of something and you’ll find people who understand and are willing to support your efforts.

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EP78 - Best of Sisters in Loss 2018 Jan 02, 2019

Happy New Year 2019 Sisters in Loss! Welcome to 2019! Day 2 into the new year I wanted to kick off the year with a best of series. Today’s episode is a Best of Sisters in Loss of 2018 and the episodes you loved the most. You loved hearing about fibroids, infertility journeys, SIDS stories, 2nd trimester miscarriages, and infant loss stories.

In today’s episode I’m highlighting clips of episdoe 55 guest Gessie Thompson talking about Uterine Fibroids and how we can eliminate them through diet and exercise. Episode 71 guest Geneen Fitchett who shares her SIDS story. Episode 58 guest Courtney Arlesia’s 2nd trimester miscarriage journey, and episode 65 guest Qiana Wright who shares her infant loss due to daycare negligence.

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EP77 - Andrea Fenise's 2nd Trimester Miscarriage and Coping with the Loss Dec 26, 2018

How have you coped with your loss? In today’s episode we have Andrea Fenise who share her 2nd trimester miscarriage and how she is coping with loss. Andrea is a mom, wife, and creative entrepreneur. She raised her daughter Amira for 9 years as a single mother. Andrea found love, married, and was excited to be pregnant with a girl name Olivia Isabelle. She loss Olivia at 17 weeks and in this episode she goes into detail of this journey and how she has coped with the loss. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a 2nd trimester miscarriage or have struggled to cope with loss.

Andrea Fenise’s BioMom, Wife & Creative Entrepreneur. Through my businesses and personal brand over the years, I've committed myself to insire women to live abundantly. I've used fashion styling, design, both fashion and graphic, writing and entrepreneurship as springboards to design a balanced and stylish life. For 9 years, I raised my daughter Amira as a working single mother. I overcame so many challenges and obstacles all while seeing the privilege and honor I had in raising such a beautiful little angel. God sent my husband after years of praying and we became pregnant with our child. Unfortunately, God saw fit to take our sweet Olivia Isabelle Garcia while I was 17 weeks pregnant. Coping with a miscarriage has been extremely hard but I'm sure I will get through it.

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RyanMorgan Events Instagram

EP76 - Courtney Shorter's Infertility due to Brain Tumor, Twin Loss, and Ryan Morgan Events Dec 19, 2018

Have you heard of the prolactin hormone? This hormone comes from your pituitary gland and is what causes your body to produce breast milk. When this hormone’s levels are elevated it causes your body to think it is pregnant and is producing milk. This was the case for today’s guest Courtney Shorter. In June 2015, Courtney delivered twin girls Ryan and Morgan 4 months early, both weighing one pound each. Three days later Morgan received her angel wings, and three weeks later Ryan joined her sister in heaven. Courtney shares in this episode how high prolactin hormone levels caused her infertility due to a brain tumor on her pituitary gland. How she took medicine to reduce her prolactin levels, her IVF journey with her rainbow baby boy Hendrix, and her inspiration for starting Ryan Morgan Events. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed infertile due to high prolactin levels.

Courtney Shorter’s BioLife can be funny or cruel, depending on how you view it. You make elaborate plans, envision how perfect things will be and then somewhere along the journey, those plans change. Just a few years ago, life was great. I had a career in human resources, and a part-time position working in my passion, event planning. To add icing to the cake, my husband Mike and I were expecting twin girls, due to arrive in October 2015. In June 2015, we delivered our beautiful girls, 4 months early. Ryan was born at 1:45 pm and Morgan arrived one minute later, both weighing one pound each. Our “Tinymights” put up an intense fight. Yet, after three days, Morgan received her baby angel wings. We were blessed to spend the next three weeks with Ryan before she joined her baby sister receiving wings of own. After the passing of my girls, I learned a few life lessons…. Live your life to the fullest; you only get one Celebrate the ones you love always; and Follow your passion. I felt an urge and realized my dreams of planning events full time which brings me to you and your celebrations of life, family, and careers. I'm here to serve you and help you celebrate your life to the fullest. My company, named after my daughters, Ryan and Morgan, is built on a bedrock of love, a passion for what’s possible and a commitment to be an unstoppable force for good. We look forward to working with you.

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EP75 - Chanay Banks' Infertility Diagnosis due to Blocked Fallopian tubes and IVF Dec 12, 2018

Have you heard of blocked fallopian tubes?

In today’s episode we have Chanay Bank’s who share’s her secondary infertility diagnosis due to blocked fallopian tubes and her IVF journey. Chanay was diagnosed with secondary infertility at 26 years old after already having a child from a previous relationship. She ended up having both her tubes removed resulting in IVF being the option for her and her husband to grow their family. She is currently going through her second round of IVF and is documenting her journey on instagram. This episode is for you if you have experienced secondary infertility or have been diagnosed with blocked fallopian tubes.

Chanay Bank’s Bio

My name is Chanay Banks. I was diagnosed with second Infertility in 2014. Currently reside in Maryland. Close to Washington DC. Married for almost a year to my husband we a son and a daughter both from previous relationships. After being diagnosed I under went surgery and had to get both of my tubes removed. At the time I wasn’t honest with myself about how I felt. Since, I was blessed with one child I never wanted to feel ungrateful. Deep down I did long for another child with my husband but didn’t know if I had the courage to go through IVF. Also, IVF isn’t talked about in the young black community. I was diagnosed at 26. Now at 30, We will now be completing our first IVF cycle in July 2018. I want to continue to share and connect with woman. I feel it’s important and no woman should be ashamed.

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That Girl Named Boom Podcast

EP74 - Jamillah Miller's Recurrent Losses due to Incompetent Cervix and That Girl Named Boom Podcast Dec 05, 2018

Have you experienced cervical incompetence or an incompetent cervix? In today’s episode we have Jamillah Miller who shares her multiple miscarriage story due to an incompetent cervix, and finding out her 16 year old daughter was pregnant right after she had her rainbow baby, and right before her grandchild was born experienced another loss. Jamillah is the founder and host of The Girl Named Boom Podcast and in this episode she shares how she overcame post partum depression, marriage being tested, and how she overcame obstacles of fear, doubt, uncertainty and timidness. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced recurrent losses due to incompetent cervix.

Jamillah Miller’s BioI am a 35 year old mother of two (17 & 2) and a grandmother. I currently host a Podcast That Girl Named Boom and I work full time (currently on leave). I love to coupon, journal, meditate (with crystals), travel, read and the beach. I try to practice a holistic lifestyle and eat as healthy as possible. I enjoy spending time with family and friends. My husband and I also own a handyman business in our local area which keeps us very busy.

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EP73 - Chasity Womack's Stillbirth Story, 2nd Trimester Twin Loss, Rainbow Twin Girls, and Angel Babyzzz Nov 28, 2018

In today’s episode we have Chasity Womack who shares her stillbirth story of daughter Kierstin on Sept. 26, 2009, and her 2nd trimester miscarriage of twins on January 2, 2012 and March 6, 2012. She then went on to have twin rainbow baby girls. In this episode we talk about her losses and how it inspired her to start Angel Babyzzz to support parents with Angel Babies with memory boxes at local hospitals. Their mission is to raise money and donate memory boxes to local hospitals for bereaved parents as it is extremely important to have something to remember angel babies during the grieving and healing process. We all know that leaving the hospital without a baby is one of the hardest things a parent will have to do. Angel Babyzzz goal is to keep the angel babies memory alive.

Chasity Womack’s Bio

My name is Chasity Womack and my first born, my daughter, Kierstin Ariana was stillborn on Sept. 26, 2009. Every year since then my family, close friends, and I have celebrated her short life with gatherings and dinners on her birthday and October 15th. (The day that is set aside to recognize Pregnancy and Infant Loss.) I also miscarried twins in the second trimester. One twin Jan. 2, 2012, and the other twin March 6, 2012. Unfortunately, these types of losses are so common and shoved in silence as taboo, I felt the need to BREAK THE SILENCE. My babies existed, this pain is real, these types of losses are rarely discussed, but Kierstin Ariana and the Indiocito Twins gave me a reason to let the world know that OUR JOURNEY MATTERS TOO. In addition, we donate reading material to the Parent Bereaved Support Groups at the local hospitals to help begin the healing process, and to bring all parents, families, and friends together that has experienced losing a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. By coming together, we can to talk with others that know exactly what we are going through, to help each other adjust to the new norm, and to let the world know OUR JOURNEY MATTERS TOO.

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Twelve 12 Ministries Instagram

EP72 - Nicole Clark's Infertility due to Endometriosis, Miscarriage, and Twelve 12 Ministry Nov 21, 2018

Have you heard of Endometriosis? Do you know of someone with this diagnosis? In today’s episode Nicole Clark shares her infertility journey due endometriosis, miscarriage healing journey, and what led her to start her non profit organization called Twelve 12 Ministries. Twelve 12 Ministries is a non-profit organization created to support women who are struggling to conceive with infertility being barren, or suffering a loss through miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion. The name is Inspired by Romans 12:12 “rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer”. Nicole shares in this episode how she struggled with infertility due to endometriosis for years, how her miscarriage empowered her to help other women, and how she believed God for her rainbow baby girl after months of hope, prayers, tears, surgeries, supplements, and remedies.

Nicole Clark’s Bio My name is Nicole Hill Clark and I would like to introduce you to Twelve 12 Ministries. I have been blessed with a beautiful and spunky 5-year old daughter but have spent the last few years on a journey that has led me to this destination.

This non-profit women’s ministry was created to support women who are struggling to conceive, with infertility or barren. Including anyone who has suffered a loss through miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion. Inspired by Romans 12:12 “rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer”. Twelve 12 Ministries will focus on biblical teachings to help any woman through their tough season.

For the past 3 years I have been struggling with infertility due to endometriosis and healing from a miscarriage. After months of hope, prayers, tears, surgeries, supplements, and remedies, conceiving our 2nd child was not in God’s plan. If I did not have Jesus in my life, a community to surround me, and the truth of the bible, I would not have made it through. This is my story; and through my pain and hurt God helped me break free. The strength I was given from this trial is now my way to help others who are struggling with the same issue.

This ministry is ready to take on the world one community at a time. Reminding women of Gods grace and faithfulness. No matter what your circumstance, no matter what you are going through, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Stay close to God, be in His word, surround yourself with like-minded people and always have hope. Your pain has a purpose and if you move through that storm, you will be stronger, wiser and prepared for the next task at hand.

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EP71 - Geneen Fitchett SIDS Story and How to trust God when you don't understand why Nov 14, 2018

Have you ever questioned God why? Did you feel like God let you down after your loss? In today’s episode Geneen Fitchett shares her SIDS story of daughter Madison and how to trust God when you don’t understand why. Geneen is an angel mother, college biology professor, daughter, friend and child of God. She became a mother on December 4, 2016 to a beautiful baby girl Madison Michelle Jones at the age of 31. She had a perfect pregnancy and created a home for Madison. Unexpectedly when she went to wake up her perfect little girl from a nap in her swing so peacefully on January 11, 2017 she was unresponsive. In this episode Geneen takes us back to that day and how she felt when she left the hospital without her baby. She shares how to trust God even when you don’t understand why and I know this episode is for you because we all have felt this way before.

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EP70 - Ashley K. Pittman Multiple Losses and How to save your Marriage After Loss Nov 07, 2018

In today’s episode we have Ashley K. Pittman who shares her multiple loss story including losing twins and how to save your marriage after loss. Ashley is the founder of Ashes to Beauty and the wife and mom to two amazing boys. Her mission is to help women protect their marriages after pregnancy loss. Before her boys Ashley loss a set of twins a boy and a girl at 7 months pregnant. Eights months after having them, she then ended up having a miscarriage at 8 weeks. After such a loss, her marriage started to suffer, and they were close to separating permanently. Ashley and her husband learned the hard way that men and women grieve differently and in this episode she shares what she has learned and how she is helping other women and couples save their marriages.

Ashley K. Pittman BioI am Ashley Pittman, wife, mother, and author. I married my high school sweetheart and quickly started a family. After our loss, we could have easily fallen apart. Well, we did fall apart, but with faith, prayer, and life tools, we rebuilt our relationship and grew our family. Everyday, I am thankful for my husband and my children. I reside in Indianapolis, Indiana. I always wanted a family, and almost as soon as my family was given to me, it was taken away. For a a long time, I held on to my pain. I shut out the person who loved me the most, my husband. And even after we were blessed with more children, I still wasn't free to live my life, to love freely, and be there for my children. I was simply existing through the shame and guilt I felt from the loss of my babies. I had to learn how to fight for my freedom. Now that I am free, I'm helping others fight for theirs.

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March of Dimes Blanket Change Campaign

Why your Vote Matters! March of Dimes Blanket Change Campaign with President Stacey D. Stewart Nov 05, 2018

As many of my US listeners know tomorrow, November 6, 2018 is Election Day and Midterm elections, and we have the power to change and shift the paradigm of maternal and infant mortality in America with our vote. In today's episode I sit down with March of Dimes President Stacey D. Stewart to discuss their Blanket Change Campaign launched on October 10th, and why our vote matters in this election, why the maternal death rate is getting worse as technology advances, and how working together with March of Dimes gives all new moms a better chance to be there for their babies.

Stacey D. Stewart joined March of Dimes as its fifth President on January 1, 2017, and first African American President. In this role, Stewart heads the organization leading the fight for the health of all moms and babies. She is responsible for all aspects of the organization's strategy, vision and operations.

The maternal death rate in America has doubled in just twenty five years, and it’s only getting worse. More than 700 moms died due to pregnancy-related causes this year alone, making the United States the most dangerous developed nation to have a newborn baby. Women of color are most at risk of facing life-threatening complications, and black women are three times as likely as white women to die from pregnancy-related causes. Working together for #BlanketChange, we can give all new moms a better chance to be there for their babies.

Stacey Stewart Full Bio

Former U.S. President of United Way Worldwide and senior officer at the Office of Community and Charitable Giving at Fannie Mae

Accomplished leader with a master’s of business administration from the University of Michigan and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Georgetown University
Honorary degrees from Alabama A&M, Morgan State University, Texas Southern University and Trinity University

Stewart came to March of Dimes from United Way Worldwide, where she held several positions, most recently serving as U.S. President of United Way, the nation's largest nonprofit organization. There she provided strategic direction for more than 1,000 local United Ways. Stewart was also responsible for United Way's national efforts in education, financial stability and health as well as guiding efforts to enhance the brand and grow revenue. Stewart spearheaded the transformation of United Way from a pass-through fundraiser to a leading organization for local community impact. Prior to becoming U.S. President, Stewart served as Executive Vice President, Community Impact Leadership and Learning. In this role, Stewart developed global partnerships to advance community impact in more than 40 countries.

A business veteran, Stewart has also held a number of senior roles, including Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Vice President for the Office of Community and Charitable Giving at Fannie Mae, as well as President and Chief Executive Officer for the Fannie Mae Foundation. Additionally, Stewart has an extensive background in finance and investment banking, having served as Vice President for Pryor, McClendon, Counts & Co., and as a senior associate for Merrill Lynch, specializing in financings for state and local governments.

Stewart has a master's of business administration in finance from the University of Michigan and a bachelor of arts in economics from Georgetown University. She also holds honorary degrees from Trinity University, Morgan State University, Texas Southern University, Lincoln University and Alabama A&M University. She currently serves on several boards nationally and in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Stewart is married to Jarvis C. Stewart, the Chairman and Managing Partner of I + R Media, LLC, a strategic communications firm based in Washington, D.C. The Stewart’s have two children, Madeleine and Savannah.

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EP69 - Tiffany Cunningham on Parenting After Loss Oct 31, 2018

The last episode for the Life After Loss series for October which is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and we are talking about Parenting After Loss. In August 2014 Tiffany found out she was expecting her second child. Shortly after finding out that they were blessed with a little girl, she experienced Premature Preterm Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) at 22 weeks. After a brief stay in the hospital Tiffany’s body could no longer hold her baby girl. She delivered Chloe before viability and in this episode we talk about her journey to her rainbow baby and how she is parenting after loss.

Tiffany Cunningham’s Bio

Tiffany Cunningham is a wife and mother to a sunshine son, angel daughter, and rainbow daughter. She founded Chloe’s Treasure Inc. to help support families healing from pregnancy and infant loss. She also spreads hope every Monday by feature a Miracle Baby Monday that highlights the joy that comes from pregnancy after loss or infertility.

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Tarinna Olley Therapeutic Services

EP68 - Tarinna Olley on Therapy After Loss Oct 24, 2018

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss awareness month. All month long we are discussing Life After Loss. In today’s episode we have Tarinna Olley who shares on how impactful therapy was for her after her loss. At 28 weeks pregnant she gave birth to her stillborn son Gabriel who was diagnosed with Trisomy 13 a rare genetic defect that was tested while in the womb. When the doctors pushed for her to abort her son she held onto hope that God would perform a miracle. Tarinna had Gabriel 3 days after she was married and in this episode talks about the incredible aching pain of grieving her baby boy and how therapy helped her on her journey. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a stillbirth or if have experienced a genetic diagnosis of your baby in the womb.

Tarinna’s Bio

I am independent consultant who provides services in the social services arena.

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EP67 - Renee' Coakley on Healthy Holistic Living After Loss Oct 17, 2018

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. All month long we are discussing Life After Loss. In today’s episode we have Renee’ Coakley a Certified Holistic Health Coach who shares about Healthy Living After Loss. Renee’ experienced a stillbirth of her son in February 2017 at 36 weeks gestation due to placenta abruption. Renee’ helps transcend women through their motherhood journey, to live a life of holistic mindfulness. In this episode Renee’ shares how her stillbirth lead her to the work of holistic heath and how we should be living healthy lives after loss.

Renee’ Coakley’s Bio

Renee’ Ashley, a soon-to-be certified holistic health coach. I’ll be focusing on elevating women to live a life of mindfulness through their hormonal balance. Currently, I focus on sharing holistic living through lifestyle, wellness, and self-care.

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Register for the Sisters in Loss Online Healing & Prayer Summit October 15-19, 2018 7pm EST Nightly

EP66 - Alishia Anderson on Life After Loss Oct 10, 2018

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. All month long we are discussing Life After Loss. In today’s episode we have Alishia Anderson who shares her stillbirth story and her new memoir Still Here: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Triumph After Stillbirth. On January 15, 2016, at 28 weeks pregnant she went in for a routine ultrasound when she was told her son no longer had a heartbeat. In a matter of seconds her world was flipped upside down. They were given a day to process the news then went to the hospital the very next day to deliver their stillborn son. After three days of labor she gave birth to her angel Derrek Jerrell Anderson Jr aka DJ on Monday, January 18, 2016. Alishia went on to have her rainbow baby Grayson after working on herself for a year. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a Stillbirth and are still on your own healing journey and are unsure what life after loss looks like for you. I apologize for the quality of the audio in this interview in advance.

Alishia Anderson Bio My name is Alishia Anderson. I am a new resident of Carson, California by way of Byron, Georgia, by way of Ypsilanti (Ip-si-lan-tee), Michigan. I received my B.S in Industrial Engineering from Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, FL (in 2009) and then went on to obtain my B.A in Apparel Textile Technology (in 2016) from Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia. I have been married 6 years to my wonderful husband Derrek Anderson and am the proud mommy to my first born angel Derrek Jerrell Anderson Jr. and the rainbow mama to my second born son Grayson Anderson. It is my hope that baby loss is eradicated from the pregnancy experience, but until then I want to help foster honest dialogue surrounding the taboo topic of baby loss and help contribute support and hope to a community often suffering in silence.

Grieving the Child I Never Knew by Kathee Wunneberg, The 4:8 Principle by Tommy Newberry

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EP65 - Keisha Wells on Self Care After Loss Oct 03, 2018

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This month we are talking all about Life After Loss. In today’s episode Keisha Wells is sharing on Self Care After Loss. Keisha experienced 2nd trimester loss of twin boys in 2017. In this episode we talk about Self Care after loss, how her loss pushed her to become a licensed Professional Counselor, and how she is eradicating injustices in pregnancy and birth experiences via educating women, particularly WOC, on their rights and assisting them in advocating for their emotional and physical well being while working with medical professionals.

Keisha Wells BioKeisha Wells is a licensed professional counselor and mother to twin angels, Kyle and Kendrick. Additionally, Keisha is the owner of Transformation Counseling Services, a practice specializing in grief counseling and perinatal mental health services for mothers (and their families) impacted by neonatal loss, postpartum depression, and traumatic birth experiences. With a call to serve and support others during their most heart-wrenching trials in parenthood, Keisha is a compassionate therapist and advocate for under served and often misunderstood populations.

My journey to motherhood includes a traumatic, second trimester loss to multiples. My twin sons were born prematurely in 2007 and transitioned shortly after a few hours of precious life. To date, they have been my greatest creation. I embrace and celebrate the depth of their lifetimes in my support of others. This holding space for others and walking alongside them in their grief journeys and trials in parenthood has been a privilege and contributed to my resilience in grieving the unimaginable and out-of-order loss of a child. In working through the pain, shame, and guilt of loss, I’ve committed to advocating for others in my practice and volunteering with organizations such as the March of Dimes/March for Babies and Postpartum Support International. My current work also includes eradicating injustices in pregnancy and birth experiences via educating women, particularly WOC, on their rights and assisting them in advocating for their emotional and physical well being while working with medical professionals.

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EP64 - Qiana Wright's Infant Loss due to Daycare Abuse & Savannah's Smiles Community Sep 26, 2018

In today's episode we have Qiana Wright who shares her miscarriage at 8 weeks, premature birth at 28 weeks, and infant loss story at 9 months due to daycare abuse. We also talk about her inspiration for starting her foundation Savannah Smiles, and trying again for a family after having her tubes tied. Qiana shares in this episode how her first pregnancy ended in a premature birth of son Julius. He spent a month in the NICU and came home on a breathing monitor. Later she conceived and ended up miscarrying at 8 weeks. Qiana and her husband were determined to try again, and became pregnant with daughter Savannah. After not having a known cause for her previous preterm birth and miscarriage, a cerclage was placed at 21 weeks due to her cervix shortening. Qiana gave birth to her beautiful healthy baby girl Savannah on March 1, 2015. She knew her family was complete and opted to get her tubes tied in April 2015. On December 4, 2015, Savannah died at 9 months due to child abuse while at daycare. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a miscarriage, premature birth, infertility, and to understand how a couple and family grieves while going through the legal process of child abuse at daycare.

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Anaya's Project Inc Paint Event October 15, 2018 at National Harbor, MD

EP63 - Sanita Mitchell's Infertility Journey, Infant Loss Story & Anaya's Project Foundation Sep 19, 2018

In today's episode we have Sanita Mitchell who shares her infertility journey, infant loss story of daughter Anaya, and starting the Anaya's Project foundation. Sanita is a wife, business owner, non-profit CEO of Anaya's project, and the mom of 4 children (3 boys and 1 princess) and 1 Angel Baby named Anaya. Sanita shares in this episode how having her tubes removed gave her 10-12% chance of becoming pregnant on her own, how she naturally conceived her rainbow baby, and now that pregnancy as well as her second rainbow baby pregnancy was met with challenges including high risk pregnancy, gestational diabetes, and uterine rupture. She also shares how she was led to start Anaya's project which serves couple's or individuals who have experienced the painful experience of pregnancy and infant loss as well as those who are experiencing infertility challenges. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had one of you tubes removed and if you have had pregnancy challenges like gestational diabetes or being considered high risk.

Sanita Mitchell's Bio I am the Founder and CEO of Anaya's Project Inc. Anaya's Project serves couple's or individuals who have experienced the painful experience of pregnancy and infant loss as well as those who are experiencing infertility challenges. I am a wife, business owner of Bright Sparkles Family Daycare, Co-Founder of The Perfect Family Blend, and mom of 4 children (3 boys and 1 princess) and 1 Angel Baby. I married my best friend on September 19, 2009. We are a blended family. After being married for about 2 months we learned that we were expecting a new addition to our family. Then we became even more excited once we learned that we were expecting a little girl. On April 22, I would be sent to the hospital because I was experiencing contractions only to be sent home. I would be admitted to the hospital on Friday, April 22. On April 26, for the safety of my life and my daughter Anaya's life the decision was made to forward with delivery. Anaya would not survive. A pain that is totally indescribable occurred in my life and my family. I dealt with thoughts of suicide and battled with depression. I had even became somewhat addicted to the pain medicines; which seemed to numb the pain. As time progressed, my husband and I would try to conceive again with no avail. I became obsessive with becoming pregnant and the more it didn't occur the more depressed I became. One day, I got over myself, pride and fear. I went to my OB/GYN to find out what the problem could be. After meeting with IVF specialist and having one of my tubes removed. I was given a very low percent around 10-12% chance of becoming pregnant on my own. There was talks of IVF and other medications to be administered if I didn't become pregnant within a certain period of time. Well, my husband and I were thrilled to learn that our three year journey produced our rainbow baby!!! After being high risked, gestational diabetes, fear of losing her, carpal tunnel, sciatic nerve pain, weekly injections, BPP, stress tests; we welcomed into the world Aryana Faith. After her birth we were blessed with our second rainbow baby Samuel Marquis. Through all of the physical challenges of carrying two babies back to back and being considered very high risk. During Sam's birth I almost ruptured; but Praise God!! God intervened and had the placenta in a very unusual place which kept Sam from pushing through the rupture!! There were the mental challenges and faith challenges that I had to overcome. The mental challenges were getting over the fear that there may have been something wrong with me and that I would not be able to give my husband the one thing he desired. Another challenge that overcame was worrying about what people thought or said. After losing Anaya people said some very hurtful things, that I later learned that they were not being intentionally insensitive; but they just can't totally understand this walk. Next, the testing and procedures were difficult; however, we had to face them in order to receive what we were believing God for. Our faith was challenged. My husband and I were very active in ministry and Deacons in our church. But this rocked our foundation but we had to become relentless in our faith. God gave His word and we had to walk it out. I had to overcome my head noise. I had to release the could've, would've and should've. I had to stop entertaining that my past mistakes were the reasons why I loss Anaya.

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Jennifer's October Pregnancy Loss Event in Houston, Texas

EP62 - Jennifer Robertson's 2nd Trimester Losses due to Cervical Incompetence and Memorize Forever Boxes Sep 12, 2018

In today's episode we have Jennifer Robertson who shares her 2nd trimester losses due to cervical incompetence and her memory boxes called Memorize Forever. Jennifer experienced 3 miscarriages including the loss of her twin boys Kyrie and Karson at 17 weeks due to an incompetent cervix. The loss of her twins inspired her to start working on memory boxes that holds memories forever. She then experienced the loss of a daughter named Joelle at 20 weeks, and knew she was called to this work. Jennifer is committed to meeting and uplifting woman who have walked the same path as she. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss and are still waiting for your rainbow baby.

Jennifer Robertson's Bio My name is Jennifer Robertson I am 24 years old and I am an Angel Mom to 3 beautiful angels. I lost my twin boys, Kyrie and Karson, on February 19,2017 at 17 weeks due to an incompetent cervix. After my loss I started to work on building a brand that holds memories forever. I became pregnant again with what I thought was going to be my angel baby. I soon lost her, Joelle on April 29,2018 at 20 weeks due to my incompetent cervix even after getting a cervical cerclage. After this loss I went tunnel vision into my brand. Not to get my mind off of another loss but because I was faced with a possibility of having to have a hysterectomy. At 24 I could’ve lost the possibility to conceive ever! I realized, in that moment, how blessed I am to have dodged a bullet others take. My brand has allowed me to commit to meeting and uplifting woman who have walked the same path as me. We truly never realize the fight others have to fight until we are the ones fighting it.

Book Recommendations and Links Below

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Memorize Forever Design Instagram

Memoriez Forever Website

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EP61 - Jewel Carey Smith SIDS Story and She Rises from SIDS Sep 05, 2018

In today's episode we have Jewel Carey-Smith who shares her stillbirth story with daughter Darielle Ava. She started her youtube and facebook community She Rises from SIDS to educate around Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS and create a safe haven for other parents to express themselves, and to impart knowledge for those parents who have walked down this road. Jewel shares in this episode how sharing her story and her journey is not for herself, but for the healing and deliverance of others. This episode is for you to listen to if you are looking for a community around Sudden Infant Death Syndrome also known as SIDS.

Jewel Carey-Smith Bio My name is Jewel Carey-Smith and I am a 30 year old wife and mother of two children. I still include my angel in my child count because she is eternally mine. I live in Nassau, The Bahamas. I am the creator of the YouTube Channel and Facebook Community Space "SheRisesFromSIDS", where my aim is to educate the public on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, create a safe haven for other parents to express themselves and to impart knowledge and sensitivity on behalf of the parents who have walked down this road. This journey has taught me one thing...My story is not for myself but for the healing and deliverance of others. I am nothing with my Heavenly Father and I stand on the belief of Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord , thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.".

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EP60 - Mych'laya Alexander's PCOS Diagnosis, Loss Story, and blog The Womb Keeper Aug 29, 2018

In today's episode we have Mych'laya Alexandar who shares how being diagnosed with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome and struggling with infertility led to her starting the Womb Keeper blog and community. Mych'laya struggled with infertility for many years and had 3 miscarriages. She is determined to encourage and support those who have struggled or is struggling with infertility and pregnancy loss. This episode is for you if you have being diagnosed infertile due to PCOS.

Mych'Iayla Alexander's bio I was born and raised in Rockford, IL, moving to Brown Deer, WI in my early teenage years. I have a dual Bachelor Degree in Psychology and Spanish and a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling. I have many titles. Among them are wife, mother, bonus mother, daughter, sister, friend, elder, cousin, niece, aunt, teacher, counselor, and I was once called INFERTILE. I am an angel mother as well as a earthly mother and bonus mother (I have step children). I am very active in ministry, with my husband. I struggled with infertility and I have had 3 miscarriages. I’m determined to support, Coach, encourage, love, prayer with/for each woman who has struggled, is struggling with, infertility and pregnancy loss.

I had struggled with infertility for years. My ex husband and I tried for over a year and there was no success. It impacted the marriage and was partly a factor for divorce. My husband and I tried for a little under 2 years and then we stopped. I had tried medications, natural remedies, prayer, and any other things I thought would “get me pregnant.” The 3 miscarriages I had were VERY hard and at different stages in my life. Each May I would fall apart but 2 years ago I made up in my mind that I would use that pain for a purpose. Doesn’t mean I don’t get sad, it just means I channel it differently.

Supernatural Childbirth by Jackie Mize, prayer, journaling, blessing expectant mother’s, allowing my heart to break, and finding my purpose BEFORE my daughter came.

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Lindsey Boxie's Instagram

EP59 - Lindsey Boxie's Stillbirth story, Early Endometriosis Diagnosis, and helping others through Grief Therapy Aug 22, 2018

In today's episode we have Lindsey Boxie who shares her stillbirth journey with us. Lindsey was diagnosed with Endometriosis in middle school and told her that because of the way her uterus was shaped she would have difficulty getting and staying pregnant. After college she was able to conceive and around 36 weeks she went into labor arrived at the hospital and found that her baby passed away. She then went on to have her rainbow baby afterwards which led her to going back to school to help others through grief therapy. This episode is for you if you have been diagnosed with Endometriosis and those who have experienced a stillbirth.

Lindsey's Boxie's Bio My journey began when I began my cycle at 8 years old. By the time I was in middle school, my ObGyn has diagnosed me with endometriosis, and told me that because of the way my uterus was shaped i may have difficulty getting and staying pregnant. Fast forward to 2014 after i graduated from college i was pregnant! My pregnancy was perfect until about 20 weeks when i was referred to a maternal fetal medicine doctor because of the low weight, and shallow heart beat of my baby. At 36 weeks i went to the hospital after having a sharp pain in my belly, and they kept me overnight for monitoring. I was released the Sunday morning, went to the doctor Monday, and Wednesday for checkups. On Thursday night i awoke out of my sleep in labor, and by the time i arrived at the hospital my baby had passed away. I remained in labor for about 12 hours, until i vaginally delivered my daughter Friday afternoon. I am a stay at home with two children. My oldest was stillborn in July 2015, and my second was born in August 2016. I am currently enrolled in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Capella University, and plan to specialize in grief therapy, and family court evaluations.

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EP58 - Courtney Arlesia's 2nd Trimester Miscarriage and Being Patient in the Wait Aug 15, 2018

In today's episode we have Courtney Arlesia who shares her 2nd trimester miscarriage and how she is being patient in the wait. Courtney is a native of Murfreesboro, TN and creator of Endless Love. She started this in 2012 to motivate and inspire all women to get in tune with themselves and find solace in their creator. In this episode Courtney shares how her 2nd trimester miscarriage affected her and how she is being patient while trying to conceive. This episode is for you if you are still waiting for your rainbow baby and trying to conceive.

Courtney Arlesia's Bio Courtney Arlesia is your everyday woman with an extraordinary thirst for God. She prides herself on being a shining example of strength, empowerment, and inspiration to those around her. With a rugged start, Courtney managed to obtain her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Recording Industry, all while motivating and inspiring family, friends, and strangers with hopes that they too will fall in love with Christ. Courtney recently obtained her Masters of Science in Social Work in May of 2017, in an effort to expand her service in the community with the knowledge, experience, and research that she has gained throughout her educational career.

Now a published author and the writer of affirmation book Glow Up Sis, Glow Up!, she continues to be ferociously focused on writing inspiring blog posts, books, and beginning to gear more toward public speaking. In 2012, Courtney created an in home bible study group for women known as “Endless Love” that has expanded to a Facebook group, inspirational videos, and now this website. These personal pursuits for a true relationship with Christ have now become a staple for women who have had a rough start or find themselves in the midst of the chaos of a transition.

Courtney Arlesia aspires to continue to encourage and empower women worldwide, to get in tune with themselves and find solace in their creator.

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EP57 - Jeanae Hopgood-Jones Twin Loss due to PPROM and Motherhood through Adoption Aug 08, 2018

In today's episode we have Jeanae Hopgood-Jones who shares her IVF journey and loss of twins due to PPROM and how Adoption chose her for motherhood. Jeanae and her partner had been trying to conceive for four years they decided in February 2017 to do a round of IVF and were able to conceive their twin daughters on the first round. They lost their twins due to PRROM and in this episode we talk about her healing journey and how she chose her path to motherhood through adoption. She is an angel mom to two beautiful twin daughters Aviva & Jora. Jeanae is also a wife, a writer, blogger, a therapist, a professor and a clinical sexologist. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced PPROM and maybe on the fence about adoption as your path to motherhood.

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EP56 - 1 Year Podcast Episode & My IVF/Surrogacy Journey Aug 01, 2018

Today's episode is a solo episode as I'm sharing my personal infertility journey with you all. I share why I'm choosing to go through IVF to retrieve eggs and freeze embryos for a future gestational surrogacy, and why I'm still team Surrogacy vs. team Adoption. In this episode I talk about my first year podcasting and what I've learned about myself and this amazing Sisters in Loss community. Thank you all so much for listening to this podcast and the evolution of it this past year. I committed to myself to release an episode every week for at least a year and I made it here! Thank you Lord for grace upon grace upon grace for reaching this goal. Now, if you have never rated or reviewed the podcast please do so wherever you listen to podcasts that would bless me in my first year as a Indie podcast.

Thank you all so much for listening to this podcast over the last year. After 1 year, 55 episodes, a podcast name change, a growing community on Facebook and Instagram, and over 10,000 downloads later we are here. What have I learned from this year being a podcaster? Sisterhood is a real thing. And that community and being in relationship online and offline is EVERYTHING! I have made so many new friends this past year. I was definitely on that "No New Friends" cue Drake kick especially in my 30s. I was just tired of investing into friendships that were surface and wanted to go deeper with friendships, even those who are close to me. I realized in my grief and healing journey that I build walls up around people and there are very few people that I'm vulnerable to because I was afraid I would lose them. I allowed myself this year to be open and honest with myself first about the pain I was experiencing and I had to forgive myself. Then I was able to be open and honest with those closest around me and not think twice about sharing my heart and being vulnerable. Because vulnerability is a sign of strength and courage. I believe I cultivated deeper relationships with my mom and my sister, friends I have had for years, strengthened my marriage (because marriage is a constant dying of oneself), and made a new group of good girlfriends. Shout out to my circle of Angel Sisters, many of whom I interviewed on this podcast. I reached out, we connected online, and in person, and our group chats are LIT literally cheering, praying, encouraging, rooting for each other every step of the way. I'm so blessed by the relationships I have cultivated from this podcast. It is my hope and prayer that we all develop meaningful, purposeful, vulnerable relationships with women that are deeper than just surface. Brene Brown say's it best in her book Rising Strong "Vulneralbility is the best measure of courage." The willingness to show up and be present and be brave in a time of tragedy and grief.

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EP55 - Gessie Thompson's Uterine Fibroid Journey and Eliminating Fibroids through Diet Change Jul 25, 2018

July is Fibroids Awareness Month and over 90% of black women are affected by fibroids by the age of 50. In today's episode we have Fibroids Activist and Health Coach, Gessie Thompson who shares her Uterine Fibroid Journey and Eliminating Fibroids through Diet and Detox. Gessie Thompson is one of the 90% of Black Women affected by fibroids by age 50. She personally battled the epidemic for 14 years and the resulting infertility for 10 of those years to have her miracle baby Nia. Her grueling journey included 10 surgeries, five IVF cycles, a devastating miscarriage and even her heart stopping on the delivery table. In this episode Gessie takes us back on her healing journey spiritually and physically, we both share how our hysterectomy's led to us eating a plant based diet, and how she is helping other women eliminate estrogen dominance and inflammation through her DetoxNow and Fibroid Elimination program.

Gessie Thompson's Bio Gessie Thompson is one of the 90% of Black Women affected by fibroids by age 50. She personally battled the epidemic for 14 years and the resulting infertility for 10 of those years to have her miracle baby Nia. Her grueling journey included 10 surgeries, five IVF cycles, a devastating miscarriage and even her heart stopping on the delivery table.

Her story gained national attention when ESSENCE published her profile titled "My Fertility Journey" in the 2014 Mother's Day issue sparing a chain reaction of transformation that included releasing her bestselling book HOPE BEYOND FIBROIDS: Stories of Miracle Babies & the Journey to Motherhood, becoming a Nutrition & Health Coach and co-founding both the Hope Beyond Fibroids Elimination Program and The Detox on her mission to end inflammatory diseases such as Fibroids, Diabetes, Heart Disease and more by educating and empowering women to cure and prevent disease holistically.

From diet to stress management, her transformative holistic Hope Beyond Fibroids Elimination and The DeTox programs teach lifestyle changes that have resulted in the documented cases of one woman alone eliminating up to 50 MRI documented fibroids without surgery, women having miracle babies—including one case involving 12 years of infertility—and the reversal of inflammatory disease such as Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol and more.

Gessie Thompson's Social Links

Her personal website http://gessiethompson.com/

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EP54 - Chelsea Hernadez Surrogacy Journey & Their Joey My Pouch Blog Jul 18, 2018

There are so many paths to motherhood and for many women diagnosed infertile Gestational Surrogacy is their chosen path. For the month of July we are featuring Surrogacy stories and journey's on the podcast.

In today's episode we have Chelsea Hernandez who shares the beginning stages of her gestational surrogacy journey. Chelsea is a wife of 4 years to Pedro and mom to two boys Nicholas and Aramis. She is a perinatal educator to low income families to ensure healthy pregnancy outcomes. In this episode Chelsea shares how she has wanted to become a gestational surrogate before she had her own children, how her close family and friends who suffer from infertility have inspired her to do so. She knew her last son Aramis was going to be her last so she decided to have a double salpingectomy in 2017 and help other mothers grow their families. This episode is for you have considered becoming a gestational surrogate and the steps you need to take to prepare your body and mind for this pregnancy.

Chelsea Hernanadez's Bio My name is Chelsea Hernandez and I live in the beautiful city of San Diego, CA. I am the wife to an amazing man, Pedro of almost 4 years and mother to two boys: Nicholas (9) and Aramis (2). When I’m not at baseball practice or tackling terrible twos, I am working as a perinatal home visitor for Neighborhood House Association Early Head Start Services to Pregnant Women where I provide prenatal education to low income families to ensure healthy pregnancy outcomes. I have been in the field for almost 3 years and I love every moment of it. I am currently in the early stages of a gestational surrogacy journey (we are looking at a July transfer date), something I have been wanting to do since before I had my own children. I have close friends and family who suffer from infertility so I have seen the hurt, anger, pain it can cause those who may not have children on their own. Children are blessings, and everyone who desires to have them should be able to be in traditionally, through adoption or in this case, gestational surrogacy.

Chelsea Hernandez's Bio

Blog

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EP53 - Dr. Vernette McKnight's Healing Journey through Surrogacy Twin Pregnancy Jul 11, 2018

There are so many paths to motherhood and for many women diagnosed infertile Gestational Surrogacy is their chosen path. For the month of July we are featuring Surrogacy stories and journey's on the podcast.

In today's episode we have Dr. Vernette McKnight, a Cognition & Movement specialist, who shares her healing journey to becoming a gestational surrogate of twins. In this episode Dr. Vernette shares an experience during her teenage years that inspired her to become a surrogate, how she knew the parents of the twins were the family for her, and how she plans to have a natural vaginal birth with the twins. This episode is for you if you have ever considered becoming a gestational surrogate or are curious of the process of working with a surrogate.

Dr. Vernette McKnight's bio Dr. Vernette McKnight, a Cognition & Movement specialist, was educated at the University of Louisville (B.A.), California University (M.A.), and Life University (D.C.). She has a combined 15 years of experience with Psychology, Kinesiology, Chiropractic, Mindful Meditation, Reiki and Pilates. Her hunger for learning and field experience has inspired her to find a deeper approach to holistic health through her brand, dr.vernette | Holistic Health. Her personal evolution in cultivating self-awareness has her excited about igniting that desire in others. Dr. Vernette's mission is to educate and empower people in connecting with and reclaiming their inner power, and learning to become their own healer. She is deeply involved in the metro Atlanta health and wellness community. She is a holistic health educator with IAAP, a healthcare correspondent with JR the Bossman show, and has hosted three television shows for AIB network that include Pilates Please, Walk to Wellness and Growing Up Fit. She is a proud member of the Junior League of Atlanta, Buckhead church, the North Georgia Black Healthcare Professionals Network and active with the Cobb County PTSA. Dr. McKnight currently resides in Marietta, Georgia with her two children Jeremiah and Laila Kym.

Dr. Vernette's Social Links

Instagram: @dr.vernette

Facebook: Dr. Vernette McKnight

Twitter: @drvernette

YouTube: Dr. Vernette McKnight

LinkedIN: Dr. Vernette McKnight

Website: www.drvernette.com

Email: dr.vernette@gmail.com

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Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

EP52 - Eloise Drane on Egg Donation, Birthing 8 Babies, and Family Inceptions Surrogacy Agency Jul 04, 2018

There are so many paths to motherhood and for many women diagnosed infertile Gestational Surrogacy is their chosen path. For the month of July we are featuring Surrogacy stories and journey's on the podcast.

In today's episode we have Eloise Drane owner and CEO of Family Inceptions on of the first Black Owned Surrogacy Agencies in the United States. Eloise is a married mother of 5, she has donated her eggs 6 times and was a gestational surrogate for 4 babies. Yes, you heard that right she was pregnant 8 times and once with twins as a gestational surrogate. She felt the call as a gestational surrogate her to start her own egg donation and surrogacy agency and that is how Family Inceptions was born. Family Inceptions was started back in 2008 and it is the agencies goal to provide intended parents, egg donors, and surrogates with a unique and comprehensive experience—from someone who has truly been in their shoes. In this interview Eloise shares her journey to motherood, donating a kidney to a family member, surrogacy journey, and how God's purpose and call on our life is bigger that ourselves. This episode is for you if you want to increase the understanding and knowledge of the family building journey because there are many paths to motherhood.

Eloise Drane's Bio I’m Eloise Drane and since the founding of this agency in 2008, I’ve strived to keep compassion and intentionality at the center of everything we do. While I am a very spiritual person, I would never push my personal agenda on anyone. Rather, I consider it my privilege to pray over everyone we work with, and to look at each person I work with as a child of God—as family, not simply a client. This is what makes our agency different. At the end of the day my biggest concern is the child that we are about to bring into the world. Ultimately, this is who we work for. Of course, we are here for the intended parents, and the surrogates, and the egg donors, but—aside from God—the most important piece in this whole journey is this new life; this healthy baby boy or girl. And part of my mission as the founder of this agency is to make sure we never lose sight of that—as, unfortunately, many agencies do. This calling began back in 1998, when I was a kidney donor for my cousin. I didn’t know at the time what the future would hold, but this experience turned out to be a true catalyst for me to dedicate my life to serving others. Later, I decided to become an egg donor. While my first experience wasn’t perfect by any means, I felt compelled to help other families and went on to complete five more successful experiences. Then, in 2006, I began working with a surrogacy agency as their donor coordinator. I was fascinated with the journeys and knew that this was something I wanted to do. After thinking it over and receiving the blessing of my husband and family I embarked on a journey that would change my life forever. On my first surrogacy journey I delivered a set of healthy baby girl twins. I thought that I was surely done, but God had other plans for me. A year later a mutual friend introduced me to a second family, and I went on to have another successful pregnancy and delivered a beautiful baby boy. I completed my last journey for friends of mine and delivered another healthy baby girl. I was inspired to start my agency in 2008. With a combination of my personal experience and my MBA, I wanted to provide intended parents, egg donors, and surrogates with a unique and comprehensive experience—from someone who has truly been in their shoes. It is my goal and passion to increase the understanding and knowledge of the family building journey. My biggest joy comes from sharing the moment when intended parents finally get to realize their dream of having a family, and when gestational surrogates and egg donors feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment for fulfilling someone’s else’s dream. I am grateful and blessed to be chosen by so many to assist them in this most precious journey. I’m so glad you’re here.

Eloise Drane's Social Links

www.familyinceptions.com

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LovingAngelBabies Instagram

EP51 - Dareshia Ervin's IVF Success after losing both fallopian tubes and Loving Angel Babies Jun 27, 2018

In today’s episode we catch up with Episode 15 guest Dareshia Ervin also known as Dee who experienced five miscarriages and lost both her fallopian tubes leaving her completely infertile. Back in Episode 15 she shared how she planned to go through IVF and in today's episode she share's how God fulfilled his promises to her. Dee is currently 29 weeks pregnant with her rainbow baby girl named Zuri, and shares how her IVF experience went, from the daily shots to being declared a normal pregnancy. Dee also shares how she plans to celebrate Zuri and how she is preparing for her birth and motherhood. Today's episode is for your if you are diagnosed infertile and are on the fence about going through IVF or infertility treatments. Dee's story will inspire you on how God will fulfill the promises of your heart if you believe and have faith that it will come to past.

Dareshia Ervin's Bio Loving Angel Babies was founded in March 2016 by Dareshia Ervin who had survived five miscarriages, two being life threatening. During these experiences, she had no one to call on for support who had endured such losses. She decided it was time to break the silence of pregnancy loss by starting a personal blog to share her story.

Dee's Social Links

Loving Angel Babies Facebook

Loving Angel Babies Twitter

Loving Angel Babies Website

You can follow Erica on Social

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

EP50 - Parijat Deshpande IVF Story, High Risk Pregnancy, Preterm Birth, and Delivering Miracles Jun 20, 2018

For the month of June we are talking about infertility and IVF success stories on the Sisters in Loss podcast. In today's episode we have Parijat Deshpande a High Risk Pregnancy Expert who shares her IVF journey and High Risk pregnancy. She discusses how she ended up on bedrest after going into early labor at 22 weeks. She was able to deliver her son at 24 weeks, after managing the emotional stress of preterm labor, birth, and being on bedrest. Parijat hosts the Delivering Miracles podcast where they discuss the real, raw side of fertility, pregnancy, prematurity and the postpartum period. In this episode Parijat and I share our journey's being preemie moms and spending time in the NICU, how she used mindful techniques to reduce stress while being on bedrest, and her inspiration for the work she is doing to help other women have Healthy High Risk Pregnancies. Parijat has a new book coming out on June 25th called Pregnancy Brain be sure to check it out on Amazon or her website pregnancybrain.com

Parijat's Bio Parijat Deshpande is the leading high-risk pregnancy wellness expert who guides women to manage their physical and emotional stress to help themselves stay pregnant as long as possible so they can give their baby a strong start to life. She is also the host of Delivering Miracles®, a podcast that discusses the real, raw side of fertility, pregnancy, prematurity and the postpartum period. After personally experiencing loss, infertility, a very complicated pregnancy and the extremely preterm delivery of her son, Parijat empowers women to take charge of their health and shows them how they can experience medical miracles. Her book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Reducing Stress and Creating Miracles During Your High-Risk Pregnancy is coming in June 25, 2018. Parijat is trained in clinical psychology and is a women’s wellness specialist as well as an experienced speaker on the impact of stress on health and wellness.

Parijat's Social Links

Website: https://www.parijatdeshpande.com/

You can follow Erica on Social

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

EP49 - Candace Farris Infertility Journey, IVF Story, and blog My Fruitful Journey Jun 13, 2018

For the month of June we are talking about infertility and IVF success stories on the Sisters in Loss podcast. In today's episode we have Candace Farris who has been on her infertility journey for 10 years due to Uterine Fibroids. After a failed IVF in August 2017, having her mother pass away in the middle of her IVF cycle, she is currently 10 weeks pregnant from a successful 2nd round of IVF. In this episode Candace discusses her journey to motherhood, having surgery to remove fibroids, her husband having surgery to help with sperm quality, and preparing her body for her upcoming embryo transfer. This episode is for you to listen to if you are still in the wait for your miracle baby!

Candace Farris Bio I'm a wife of almost 10 years, a Christian, and lover of food. I find so much fulfillment in encouraging others while in the wait. I share my journey on my Youtube channel, Fruitful. I was born and raised in Detroit but currently live in the Phoenix area. I stay active by hiking, playing sports and doing yoga. My husband and I started trying to have a baby soon after getting married. After years of being unsuccessful and trying everything from herbal supplements, tracking ovulation, 2 surgeries (I had an open myomectomy to remove 13 fibroids and my husband had a varicocele surgery to correct a vein and help with sperm quality) we started IVF in August 2017. After dozens of blood draws, ultrasounds and weeks of daily injections, the dr retrieved 16 eggs but unfortunately only 2 were viable enough for transfer. To make matters worse, my mom passed away right in the middle of our IVF cycle. We transferred those two embryos and were heartbroken when we learned that our embryos had implanted but stopped growing. A few months later we started IVF cycle 2 in January 2018. This cycle we got 18 eggs and had 4 viable embryos, but only 3 were chromosomally normal. Since egg retrieval in Jan, I have experienced more delays and had to have more tests done before I can transfer again.

Candace's Social Links

You can follow Erica on Social

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

EP48 - Chimyra Powell's Infertility Journey, Ecoptic Pregnancy Loss, and IVF Success Story Jun 06, 2018

For the month of June we are talking about infertility and IVF stories on the Sisters in Loss podcast. In today's episode we have Chimyra Powell a wife, mom, and blogger of journeyofchimyra.com. Chimyra suffered a 5 year journey with infertility and her first natural pregnancy ended due to a life threatening ectopic pregnancy. She and her husband decided to try IVF and it was successful as she birthed her rainbow baby boy Solomon. In this interview we discuss how she struggled with depression, severely grieving, and how she was overall unhappy and unfilled. Chimyra started her blog journeyofchimyra.com to empower women to achieve and obtain all that they want in life. Chimyra hopes that her transparency will help shed a light on infertility and how we can overcome it while sharing resources and her journey through her blog. Her desire for us all to be fruitful in all areas of life to include motherhood, marriage and career.

Chimyra's Social Links

Blog: www.journeyofchimyra.com

IG: @_chimyra

You can follow Erica on Social

Therapy for Black Girls Therapist List

EP47 - Dr. JaNae Taylor on the Cost of Mental Health & Minding my Black Business May 30, 2018

In today's episode we are discussing the Cost of our Mental Health and therapy with licensed psychotherapist Dr. JaNae Taylor. JaNaè is a licensed psychotherapist in Virginia Beach, VA, where she owns and operates, Taylor Counseling and Consulting Services. JaNaè works with Black men and women who are struggling with harmful self-evaluations. Therapy with JaNaè helps them create a more empowered and focused sense of self that is more aligned with their beliefs and values. JaNaè also provides consultations to Black Entrepreneurs, in every stage of the game, who are working to balance their mental health, Black identity, and successful businesses. Minding My BLACK Business is a movement and podcast dedicated to the mental health of Black Entrepreneurs, led by Dr. JaNaè Taylor. The goal is to engage, inform, and support other Black Entrepreneurs as they manage the business of work! In this episode Dr. JaNae and I talk about the cost of therapy and how & why Mental Health Awareness Month is important.

More about Dr. JaNae Taylor JaNaè is an Alabama native and a macaroni and cheese and brunch expert. She is also fluent in sarcasm, lover of neo-soul and big laughs with good people. Most importantly, JaNaè is a daughter, big sister, best friend, godmother, HBCU grad, and trying to make a dollar out of 15 cents.

Dr. JaNae Taylor Social Links

You can follow Erica on Social

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

EP46 - Katina Nish's Child Loss Story & Mourning Moms May 23, 2018

In today's episode we have Katina Nish who shares her child loss story and Mourning Moms blog and community. Katina is a published freelance model and writer. Katina loss her son in March 2008, and she felt God moving her into her purpose so she created the Mourning Moms blog and community to help other grieving mothers like herself. Her goal through Mourning Moms is to create a national movement dedicated to women of child loss. From pregnancy loss, still birth, and infant/child loss the goal is to keep you encouraged and in hope of what God said you would naturally have. Katina shares in this interview how she is called to this work and how it is okay for us to mourn.

Katina Nish's Bio Hi, I'm Katina Nish(K.Nish). I'm a published freelance model/writer with four years of experience in industrial like projects. Featured on the number one multicultural online magazine, "Fashion Bomb Daily", I've successfully modeled for several brands. Here's how it started! One day on March 25, 2008, I found myself holding my son's lifeless body. I visually struggled with that image for six long years and the only way to express my broken insides was with picture and words. My personal photographer, D Mayfield (at the time) and I collaborated every week creating images. I then moved on to pursue a strong modeling career which took me a great few places. However, I realized that I equally wanted to write and I had neglected my duties to do so. I had perfect images with no purpose. That's when God told me to create an national movement edifying/encouraging women. He told me as long as I forever centered my pursuits with this platform he would supply the needed liquids to my thirst. This is how "The Mourning Moms" came about! "The Mourning Mom" is national movement dedicated to women of childloss. From pregnancy loss, still birth, and infant/child loss the goal is to keep you encouraged and in hope of what God said you would naturally have. My ultimate goal is to travel the world meeting women just like us. In hopes, that united together we become the ultimate source of grief support. I plan to execute this goal through biblical love and women empowerment.

Katina's Social Links

Book Recommendation Breaking Free Day by Beth Moore

Blog

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

You can follow Erica on Social

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

REWIND: Our Special Needs Journey & How we became parents to a Superhero May 16, 2018

In today's episode we have a REWIND! My husband, my pastor, and my biggest cheerleader, Brandon McAfee, is starting a podcast to discuss the matters of the black church from the pulpit and beyond the walls of the church. We are dedicating two episodes a month to discussing disabilities in the black church. So, I wanted to rewind to his episode where we talk about our journey to our rainbow baby Maxwell also known as Super Mighty Max. We also discuss his special needs and diagnosis of Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy. We are currently casting and looking for families and caretakers of special needs, differently abled, and developmentally delayed children or siblings. If you are interested in being interviewed please email us at blackchurchmatters@gmail.com.

You can follow Erica on Social

Sisters in Loss Community Baby Shower Donation Link

EP45 - Mother's Day Letter for Grieving Mothers and Sisters in Loss May 09, 2018

Today's episode is a solo episode and its a Mother's Day episode as Mother's Day is this upcoming Sunday, May 13, 2018. I share the letter I wrote in a recent blog post to Grieving Mothers and Sisters in Loss for Mother's Day. In this episode I am also recapping my weekend spent in NYC keynoting with a short clip of my keynote, and how it was meeting some of my listeners, and podcast guests in person. I also talk about my first Mother's Day experience after my loss and the importance of sisterhood in this episode.

To my Sisters in Loss and Grieving Mothers on Mother’s Day,

I know you wish this day did not exist. You have lost your precious child, and your arms ache to hold them. Of all the days you especially want them on Mother’s Day. You want to celebrate that they did exist. You want to bask in how much they have grown up and not recall who they were. You want to see your baby alive and whole and want to smell that was only theirs. I know. I understand. I get it. You don’t want the flowers, gifts, or “Happy Mother’s Day” messages. You want your baby to be in your arms and say “hey mom, I love you.”

There is not greater sorrow on earth than losing a child. I know your heart aches and your arms are empty. I know how difficult it is to see the social media posts of “Happy Mother’s Day.” I even understand why you might avoid public Mother’s Day celebrations, and instead stay home or even visit the cemetery to see your baby because no one speaks of anymore. On Sunday, Sister in Loss, I want you to celebrate your baby no matter how long they were here. If you gave them a name or even it you did not say their name bravely, boldly, and proud today.

Sister in Loss, you are courageous because you have survived the unimaginable and managed to crawl out of bed yet again today. You are phenomenal. You are spectacular. You are resilient. You are a mother and will always be their mom.

For those Sisters in Loss who mother surviving children, hug them and love on them extra tight and continue to pray with God to keep them safe, happy, healthy, and blessed.

On Sunday, do what you need to do. If going to church, going out to brunch, crying hard, staying home, or being around family and friends will make the day better. Do it all. Today is your Mother’s Day.

You are amazing! You are brave! You are beautiful! You are loved! You are blessed! You are a Mom.

Happy Mother’s Day Sister in Loss!

Love, ~Your Sister in Loss and Grieving Mother, Erica

You can follow Erica on Social

Secure Your Fertility Apple

EP44 - Dr. Jerisa Berry's Infertility Journey, Surrogacy after IVF, and Secure your Fertility App May 02, 2018

In today's episode we have Dr. Jerisa Berry a board-certified Emergency Medicine doctor also known as Dr. Jerisa ER. She is a nationally recognized speaker, media consultant, and author. In this episode Dr. Jerisa shares her infertility journey with uterine fibroids, multiple surgeries, IVF, and how surrogacy was her final decision to become a mother. Dr. Jerisa also uses her expertise in partnering with Lab Corp and creating Secure Your Fertility an app to help women identify their ovarian reserve a test that insurance typically does not cover. For only $97 you can go to your local Lab Corp, get blood drawn, and it will determine how many eggs you have so you can make a sound decision around taking control of your fertility. Dr. Jerisa and I are on similar journey's and surrogacy is something I am considering and her experience has solidified that no matter how we become mothers, we have to continue to take control of our health and trust that God will give us the desires of our hearts.

Dr. Jerisa Berry's Bio As one of the nation’s acclaimed doctors, board-certified in Emergency Medicine Dr. Jerisa Berry a.k.a “Dr. Jerisa ER” is also a nationally recognized speaker, media consultant, and author. She is on staff at several emergency facilities in South Florida and is co-owner of a medical clinic, Vital Care Medical Center, Inc with her husband. Dr. Jerisa is founder of SecureYourFertility.com, where she helps single ladies and career-minded women take control of their fertility. Because experience and medicine both are the best teachers for women seeking to optimize and work through the various fertility options, Dr. Jerisa is a subject matter expert in ovarian preservation, assisted fertilization, and surrogacy, helping to decrease the pressures and stressors associated with the process.

When she is not saving lives in the ER, she shares her expertise in real-world health strategies as a sought-after media expert regarding acute, emergent and chronic health conditions. Her mission is simple: Make ER visits less stressful and more productive by increasing public awareness. As a relatable woman and ER doctor, women feel secure with her guidance to understand an optimal time to start a family and lessen the confusion of the fertility processes.

Dr. Jerisa graduated from Howard University and earned her medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, completed her internship and dual-residency, for both Emergency Medicine and Family Medicine, at Midwestern University in Chicago, Illinois.

You can follow Dr. Jerisa on Social

Secure Your Fertility Google Play

SecureYourFertility.com

Dr. Jerisa on Facebook

Dr. Jerisa on Instagram

Dr. Jerisa Website

You can follow Erica on Social

Heather's Sisters in Loss Podcast Episode 2

EP43 - Heather and Dimitri Wilson's 1 Year NFP Review Kennedy's Angel Gowns and 2nd Annual Angel Ball Saturday, April 28, 2018 Apr 27, 2018

This is a Bonus episode and last episode for Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month and National Infertility Awareness Week.

In today's episode we have Heather and Dimitri Wilson, who lost their daughter Kennedy to stillbirth, and they share how the 1st year has been since starting their Non-Profit Organization called Kennedy's Angel Gowns in January 2017. You may remember Heather, she was my first guest on the Sisters in Loss Podcast and shared her stillbirth story of daughter Kennedy in Episode 2. In this episode Heather and her husband Dimitri share how running a non profit centered around loss has effected their relationship, and now after 1 year and 4 months into starting their non profit and dealing with loss everyday how it has impacted them both. We also talk about their 2nd Angel Ball that is taking place tomorrow, Saturday, April 28, 2018 and what they are looking to do to transform the Hampton Roads area.

You can find Heather and Kennedy's Angel Gowns on Social

KennedysAngelGowns.org

F acebook

If you are interested in donating a Wedding Gown please email Heather at heather@kennedysangelgowns.org, call at 757-263-8479

You can mail dresses to P.O. Box 5173 Virginia Beach, Virginia 23471.

You can follow Erica on Social

EP42 - Lisa Hendrickson-Jack's Miscarriage Story, Menstrual Cycle Charting, and Fertility Friday Podcast Apr 25, 2018

It is Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month! One week in April is not enough to acknowledge the 1 in 10 women and couples who experience infertility. As black women this number is far less and I want to acknowledge those who struggle to get pregnant and stay pregnant during the month of April.

In today's episode we have Lisa Hendrickson-Jack' who shares her Miscarriage Story and Uterine Fibroid journey with Heavy Periods, Menstrual Cycle Charting and Fertility Awareness Method, and her podcast Fertility Friday. Lisa is a Fertility Awareness Educator and a Holistic Reproductive Health Practitioner who has been charting her own menstrual cycles using the Fertility Awareness Method for the past 15 years. She is passionate about helping women to develop body literacy, by understanding their natural cycles. After struggling with excessively heavy and painful periods for years Lisa discovered the connection between health and fertility first hand. Her personal experience of overcoming a Hashimoto's diagnosis and uterine fibroids has influenced her practice immensely. Lisa created her weekly radio show, the Fertility Friday Podcast, to connect women with a deeper understanding of how fertility and overall health are connected and intertwined with their menstrual cycle health. The number one response from her listeners is always "why didn't anyone teach us this stuff when we were growing up?" Her mission is to share the message of body literacy with as many women as possible. Each week she conducts in depth interviews with professionals who specialize in helping women to restore their fertility naturally. In this episode we dig deeper into how we are taught how to prevent pregnancy via birth control versus how to actually get pregnant. How to get off of birth control properly, and how to chart your menstrual cycle with the Fertility Awareness Method, and what 1 million downloads of the Fertility Friday podcast means for Lisa.

You can Follow Lisa on Social

Fertility Friday Podcast

Fertility Friday Website

Twitter

You can follow Erica on Social

Patrice's Youtube Channel

EP41 - Patrice Washington's Infant Loss Story, Secondary Infertility Journey, and Redefining Wealth Apr 18, 2018

It is Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month! One week in April is not enough to acknowledge the 1 in 10 women and couples who experience infertility. As black women this number is far less and I want to acknowledge those who struggle to get pregnant and stay pregnant during the month of April.

In today's episode we have Patrice Washington, "America's Money Maven" who opens up and shares her infant loss story, secondary infertility journey, and how to Redefine Wealth. Patrice is a national recognized best selling author, transformational speaker, spokesperson, radio host and leading authority on personal finance, entrepreneurship and success for women. You may have heard Patrice on the Steve Harvey Morning Radio show where she hosts a weekly segment called Real Money Answers with Patrice Washington. Patrice is the big sister in my head that gets me together, snatches my edges, and teaches me how to Chase Purpose and Not Money on her new weekly podcast called Redefining Wealth. In this interview Patrice shares her infant loss journey with us, how she lost everything during the recession while she was pregnant with her rainbow baby daughter, and how she is surrendering to God for her desire to have more children after experiencing secondary infertility. I could not have Patrice on this episode without discussing money and we talk about what it means to Redefine Wealth and her definition of her 6 pillars of wealth.

Patrice Washington, “America’s Money Maven” Bio Patrice Washington is a nationally recognized best-selling author, featured columnist, television commentator, transformational speaker, spokesperson, radio host and leading authority on personal finance, entrepreneurship and success for women and youth.

Today, Patrice’s wisdom on money matters has been tapped as a recurring voice by national brands such as NBC, FOX News, Black Enterprise, The Huffington Post, Essence Magazine and more. She’s been profiled by The New York Post, SUCCESS Magazine and Women of Wealth Magazine and is most known as the personal finance voice of the top-rated and nationally syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Radio Show where she hosts her own weekly segment, Real Money Answers with Patrice Washington. Additionally, she is the consulting producer for Steve Harvey's FUNDERDOME, from Mark Burnett, a top-rated, seed-funding competition reality series where two budding entrepreneurs go head-to-head to win over a live studio audience to fund their ideas, products or companies. Each year she electrifies tens of thousands as a sought-after speaker from colleges to churches and conferences nationally and has shared the stage with renowned speakers such as Lisa Nichols, Laila Ali, Paul C. Brunson and Steve Harvey. Most recently, Patrice appeared on Centric TV’s, The Round, delivering a dynamic and empowering talk on success.

Besides professional achievements such as receiving the Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award at the State Capitol and an Honorary Kentucky Colonel recognition, Patrice believes her greatest accomplishment is marrying her college sweetheart, Gerald Washington and raising their energetic daughter, Reagan.

Patrice Washington's Social Links

Patrice's Website

Patrice's Instagram

Patrice's Facebook

Books

Redefining Wealth Podcast

You can follow Erica on Social

9 Months and Waiting Blog

EP40 - Kemi Olowe's PCOS Diagnosis, IVF Journey, and 9 Months and Waiting Blog Apr 11, 2018

In today's episode we have Kemi Olowe who shares her infertility journey with PCOS diagnosis and IVF story. Kemi is the founder of #9MonthsandWaiting, a blog dedicated encouraging those on their fertility journey through her own experiences, research and testimonials. Kemi has been married for 6 years to her Primary School sweetheart and in November 2016, after a five year journey with infertility, they welcome their baby boy Samuel. In this episode we discuss;

Kemi's PCOS diagnosis
Her miscarriage and 2 failed IVF attempts and how the movie War Room changed her prayer life and fertility journey
Her last IVF attempt and pregnancy with rainbow baby Samuel, and how the UK pays for treatments
Kemi's new blog direction and new podcast #9MonthsandWaiting.

Kemi's Bio Kemi is the founder of 9MonthsandWaiting, a blog dedicated encouraging those on their fertility journey through her own experiences, research and testimonials. She has given talks in Dubai, London and Essex sharing a message of encouragement and expectancy. She is the organiser and host of ‘Be Encouraged, Be Expectant’ – an intimate awareness event dedicated to providing a discussion forum and information on reproductive health. Kemi has been married for 6 years to her Primary School sweetheart and in November 2016, after a five year journey with infertility, they welcome their baby boy Samuel.

Kemi's Social Links

Kemi's Instagram

Kemi's Twitter

9 Months and Waiting Podcast

You can follow Erica on Social

EP39 - Sosina Morgan's Adoption After Fertility Journey Apr 04, 2018

It is Sisters in Loss Fertility Awareness Month! One week in April is not enough to acknowledge the 1 in 10 women and couples who experience infertility. As black women this number is far less and I want to acknowledge those who struggle to get pregnant and stay pregnant during the month of April.

In today's episode we have Sosina Morgan who shares her fertility journey and decision to adopt after going through infertility treatments. Sosi is passionate about adoption and loves to encourage other woman of color to consider adoption as a way of growing their families. Sosi is a minister, friend, daughter, and wife to Lee of five years. She would like to add "mom" to that resume! After several IUIs and too much time spent pursuing fertility treatment, Sosina and her husband Lee said yes to God's leading to pursue adoption. They are joyfully and patiently (and sometimes not joyfully or patiently) waiting to bring home their child through adoption. In this episode Sosi takes us back to her initial infertility diagnosis and how she and her husband Lee made the decision to adopt. We discuss why she has elected to stop infertility treatments and focus on adoption. Sosi details the adoption process for us and how there are many financial grants and resources for adoptions. We also discuss adoption loss and how it affects her relationship with God and her husband. This episode is for your if you are considering adoption after infertility and are unsure of the steps in the process.

As an biracial Ethiopian-American Sosi has always been interested in race relations and cross cultural communications. In college, Sosi said yes to a life of following Jesus. Immediately after college, Sosi married Lee, her husband of five years. Sosi works for a community development non-profit, managing and equipping staff to seek God's kingdom in a low income, urban neighborhood.

In this episode Sosina and I discuss:

Her initial infertility diagnosis and how she and her husband Lee made the decision to adopt
Why she has elected to stop infertility treatments and focus on adoption
Her detailing the adoption process for us and how there are many financial grants and resources for adoptions
Affects of Adoption loss on her relationship with God and her marriage.

Sosina's Social Links

Youtube

You can follow Erica on Social

Facebook Link Elle.com Feature

EP38 - Rana Campbell's Miscarriage Story & the Financial Burden of Loss Mar 28, 2018

In today's episode we have Rana Campbell host of Dreams in Drive Podcast who shares her miscarriage story and the cost of miscarriage from her feature on Elle.com. After her miscarriage in 2016 Rana found the hospital bills quickly adding up to the thousands of dollars even with insurance. In this episode Rana takes us back to how she started Dreams in Drive while grieving the loss of her baby, and how her feature on Elle.com helped her shed light on the financial burden of losing a child.

Rana's Bio Rana Campbell is a marketing strategist, content creator, and host of the Dreams In Drive Podcast - a podcast she launched in January 2016 that teaches creatives & lifestyle entrepreneurs how to take their dreams out of PARK and into DRIVE. With over 120 episodes in her arsenal and streams in 100+ countries, she has interviewed top leaders in lifestyle and business and was featured as a empowering podcast by Essence Magazine and a top Business podcast for Black Voices on Apple Podcasts. She is a 2013 graduate of Princeton University and a proud alum of the Emma Bowen Foundation media program.Rana's work has been featured on MadameNoire, Blavity, Huffington Post, Fox 5 Good Day New York, Princeton Alumni Weekly, and more. When she isn't helping clients grow their brands and businesses or podcasting, Rana enjoys practicing her fashion photography skills, taking her favorite heels dance class, snuggling up with a good book or movie, and writing poetry.

You can connect with Rana on social

Rana's Elle.com Feature

Instagram @rainshineluv @dreamsindrive

ranacampbell.com

dreamsindrive.com

You can follow Erica on Social

www.miraclestouch02.wixsite.com/miraclespeaks

EP37 - Michelle Smith's 2nd Trimester Pregnancy Loss Story and Miracle Speaks Non Profit Organization Mar 21, 2018

In today's episode we have Michelle Smith who shares her 2nd trimester pregnancy loss story at 19 weeks gestation, her journey to become a full circle doula, and her non profit Miracle Speaks. Michelle is wife and mom of 4 and is passionate about helping other women and mothers of loss. After her loss of daughter Miracle at 19 weeks she knew she wanted to help other moms through their birthing process as she is currently 2 live births away from receiving her Full Circle Doula Certification with a specialization in Bereavement services. In this episode Michelle shares the details of her pregnancy loss story and how that journey inspired her to start her new non profit Miracle Speaks named after her daughter.

Miracle Speaks Miracle Speaks was created for Mothers and families that have experienced a Pregnancy or Infant Loss or for individuals that may know someone who may have dealt with this type of loss. This is a safe space to share our stories, to reach out for resources, and to also raise awareness. In this group you will find information, resources, testimonies, love, support and so much more. Our goal is to unite the lives of those who may have experienced a loss.

Michelle's Bio Michelle Smith is a 29 year old who is on a mission to fulfill her passion in life. She is a mother of 5, a wife of almost 8 years, daughter, sister, an author, socialist, and so much more. 8 years ago, Michelle found herself experiencing a loss like non other. Expecting her first child, at 5 months pregnant, unexpectedly her water broke and she was force to go into labor. Although they remained optimistic, God had other plans for Michelle and her Fiancé and her baby girls life. At 12:01am, February 21st, 2010 Michelle delivered her babygirl, Miracle who had passed prior to birth. This loss was a tough one but it would be that loss that would give Michelle a new passion in life. Although Michelle was grieving and lost, she later understood that nothing happens without reason. Years had passed and Michelle was called to assist other women of give advice being faced with miscarriage or pregnancy loss. And Michelle would do it without a hesitation. It was then when Michelle realized that one of her purposes was to help other Mothers of Loss grieve through their loss so that they could heal, unite and use their voices and stories of strength to share with other mothers to encourage them to break the silence surrounding Pregnancy and Infant Loss. September 2017 The non profit Miracle Speaks emerged out of Michelle’s pass came her passion. Miracle speaks came about so that Michelle could host events and support groups and activities for other mothers of Loss and the community could come together to support each other, share with each other and unite so that we could use our stories to help heal ourselves and others. And in doing that, educating ourselves and each other so that we can effectively raise awareness and bring about a change surround Pregnancy and Infant Loss. They also wish to raise funds to assist mothers of Loss financially so that they don’t have to worry about finances during their time of Loss. That’s what Michelle had dedicated herself to doing! She also is in the final stages of becoming a Full Circle Doula specializing in Bereavement Doula services to better assist mothers of Loss during the postpartum period after losing a child. Michelle will be sharing her story in her own book entitled All is not Loss which will be released this year! Michelle is dedicated to changing the narrative around pregnancy and Infant Loss, this is only the beginning.

Join us at our Sisters in Loss Brunch on April 21, 2018 in Chesapeake, Virginia. Go to SistersinLoss.com for ticket information. Michelle's Social Links

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/groups/158899187979363

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miracle_speaks/

Miracle Speaks Private FB Group

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EP36 - Bettye Williams' SIDS Story and Bailey's Dash Foundation Mar 14, 2018

In today's episode we have Bettye Williams who shares her SIDS story of four month old daughter, Bailey Nicole. On June 26th 2015, Bettye loss her my four month old daughter, Bailey Nicole to SIDS. It was the most devastating, life shattering experience of her life. Trouble is inevitable in this life but when you lose a child, so suddenly and so unexpectedly in their death, a part of you die as well. One day while struggling to get through the day, Bettye fell to her knees and asked the Lord to not only strengthen her, but to open up her eyes so that she can see the purpose in all of the pain she was feeling. Bettye reminded him of his promise in Romans 8:28. After pouring her heart out and weeping with much despair, she stood up. Immediately she felt the burden lift. The Lord put it in on her heart to “just write” and that is what she did. Bettye created Bailey’s Dash Foundation with the goal of assisting other families who were grieving. She decided to share some of my transparent moments with facebook. Within three weeks, there were over 15,000 followers. She knew that this was a portion of God’s greater plan for her life.

Bettye is an upcoming author, Bible teacher and is working towards a radio program. Each and every day she is trusting the Lord and is so very grateful for His faithfulness to her and my family. Because of the brokenness she experienced, she am now able to encourage the hearts of other women, standing on the promise “That all things work together for the good… We have two choices when we are faced with a storm, we can become bitter or better. she has chosen the latter.

Bettye's Social Links

Phone 618-709-7677

Email: baileysdash@gmail.com

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Victory through the Rainbow Book

EP35 - LaTanya Sothern's Infant Loss Story, Special Needs Mom Journey, and Book Victory Through the Rainbow Mar 07, 2018

It's Women's History Month as well as National Developmental Disabilities Month. In today's episode we are featuring the 5th black women author who shares her journey around Faith, Miscarriage, Stillbirth, Infant and Pregnancy Loss, and Hope to continue on this grief journey.

In today's epsiode we have LaTanya Sothern who shares her infant loss journey and journey with special needs son. Tiffany is the author of Victory Through the Rainbow: Living with Pregnancy and Infant Loss. This book chronicles 7 women's stories of heartbreak, healing, and hope as well as their testimonies of loss, both during and shortly after pregnancy. Celebrate their bravery as they seek to help remove the stigma of pregnancy and infant loss, and show other women how they can have victory in spite of these losses. During this interview with LaTanya and one of the book contributors Ms. Aviyah Forrest we find that we share loss and having a Special Needs child in common. Listen to both of these dynamic stories of having victory after loss.

LaTanya S. Sothern has been an educator for over 20 years. She is a passionate supporter of families of children diagnosed with disabilities, and it is her mission to help them get services appropriate for their needs. A native Washingtonian, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Communication and Economics from The American University and a Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Early Childhood Education from Howard University. She is certified in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, and School Administration; achieved National Board Certification (Early Childhood Generalist), and is the C.E.O. and Owner of Sothern Education Solutions, LLC – offering special education consulting, workshop presentation, and public speaking. Ms. Sothern currently serves as an administrator in the Prince George’s County Public School system. Her first book, The Birth of an Advocate: How My Son Helped Me Find My Voice, chronicles the story of her oldest son's first year of life as she and her husband learned to manage his various special needs. It was as featured at both the NAACP and The Congressional Black Caucus conventions in 2017. She is happily married to her husband Greg and they reside in Prince George’s County, Maryland with their two sons, Thomas III (Tré) and Quinton.

You can follow LaTanya on Social

LaTanya's Book about her Special Needs Son: The Birth of an Advocate: How my son helped me find my voice

Aviyah A. Forrest Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Aviyah's Website AviyahAForrest.com

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Sister's in Loss Brunch Tickets - April 21, 2018 Chesapeake, VA

Sister's in Loss Brunch Tickets - April 21, 2018 Chesapeake, VA

EP34 - Tiffany Rivera's Ectopic Pregnancy Loss Story & Book Ruined Womb Feb 28, 2018

It's the last day of Black History Month! We are highlighting the 4th book of 6 books by black authors around Faith, Miscarriage, Stillbirth, Infant and Pregnancy Loss, and Hope to continue on this grief journey.

In today's episode we have Tiffany "B.Renee" Upchurch-Rivera who shares her ectopic pregnancy loss and infertility journey. Tiffany is also the author of Ruined Womb: From Fertility to Inspiration. A book of poetry and spoken word pieces to inspire those who have faced infertility or child loss. She is a veteran, army wife, mom to Elijah, and she loves to write poetry, books, anything that shares the light of God to others. Her writing style is unashamedly transparent, freeing and relatable to those who have a past but who strive for excellence everyday. Tiffany shares how an STD caused her to have blocked fallopian tubes, her surgery to unblock them, lost of a fallopian tube due to a ectopic pregnancy, and stay tuned for a special Spoken Word piece from her book.

Mrs. Tiffany “B.Renee” Upchurch-Rivera is just like you and I. She has traveled through life with purpose and faith in her view always wondering why God created her, what role she would play on earth and what she would ultimately bring to society that was refreshing, inspiring, different and legendary! Mrs. Rivera’s writing started around 12 years old raised in a single parent military household. As young girl, she often used her writing to give her a voice. She used writing poetry as a way to express herself and a way to free herself of feeling insufficient and unimportant. Poetry was therapy and a mind releasing activity Tiffany loved to use. As the youngest of three, born in Nuremberg, Germany and raised in Texas and NC, she always saw herself traveling to different cities and states encouraging women. After married in 2009, she was blessed to travel back to Germany with her family for 2 years before they were stationed in yongsan, Korea for 2 more years! Being stationed in Germany opened doors for her poetically to involve the community in open mic events She is known internationally in 2011 for creating a teen open mic for the after school program she worked at, in 2012 she hosted an open mic for soldiers and families at the nearby USO building that got the attention to the radio/ media station AFN. Both events were a success! So after being stationed in Yongsan, Korea for a year, she created another open mic event at the nearby R&R Grill for soldiers and families as well! In 2011 she also started writing for a women’s magazine called Promoting Purpose for a year, in 2014 she wrote for Everything Girls Love Magazine geared towards urban young teens to women and in 2015 she wrote in a natural hair magazine called Natural From The Roots Magazine ! She is also a Veteran of the U.S Army Reserves, a former Radio Intern at Fayetteville State University’s Radio Station Bronco-iradio, a Poet, Writer, Sex Educator, Mentor, and An Author! She is currently a Self- Published Author of Her Poetry/ Inspirational Book: RUINED WOMB: From Infertility To Inspiration where she has sold over 100 books, her audience is young teens to women and families addressing the hard struggles of child loss, infertility, miscarriages, overcoming guilt from the past and learning how to love yourself ! She loves to write poetry,books, anything that shares the light of God to others. Her writing style is unashamedly transparent, freeing and relatable to those who have a past but who strive for excellence everyday.

She attends open mics and shares her poetry wherever she goes, she speaks at churches, book signings and community events. Part time she works in Clayton NC as a Community Support Technician to an autistic teenager, she’s a Mother of an 12 year old anointed son Elijah, a Wife, a Sister, Daughter and Friend! She currently resides in Spring Lake, NC but knows that is not her final destination! To God Be The Glory!

You can follow Tiffany on Social

Her Book Ruined Womb: From Infertility to Inspiration

Tiffany on Facebook

Tiffany Instagram

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Sister's in Loss Brunch Tickets - April 21, 2018 Chesapeake, VA

EP33 - Tanika Fitzgerald's Multiple Miscarriage and Incompetent Cervix Story & Book: Miscarried Joy Feb 21, 2018

It's Black History Month! We are highlighting the 3rd author of 6 black authors of books around Faith, Miscarriage, Stillbirth, Infant and Pregnancy Loss, and Hope to continue on this grief journey.

In today's episode, we have Tanika Fitzgerald who shares her miscarriage story and her book titled "Miscarried Joy: Moving Beyond Incredible Pain to Extraordinary Faith." We discuss how her faith played a role in her miscarriage with twins and ectopic pregnancy, her incompetent cervix diagnosis with her rainbow baby, and her inspiration for writing her book. We also talk about the barren women in the bible Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elizabeth, and which barren women she identifies with the most. Tanika is a woman who is passionate about her relationship with Jesus Christ, family, giving to others, laughter, having fun and enjoying every moment that life brings, and you will hear that in this interview.

Tanika Fitzgerald is a lover of Christ, a wife to her husband, Maurice, a loving daughter and sister. She is passionate about equipping women to grow spiritually, live balanced lives and helping them to be ARMED for victory in every area of life. Tanika has been called to minister to others through her passion and gift of writing to inspire women all over the globe. She is also the visionary behind ARMED Magazine – a publication created to “Spiritually Equip for you Victory in Battle.” Her inspirational writing has been featured in numerous publications including Hope for Women Magazine,Black and Married with Kids and more. Tanika has also interviewed powerful voices in the Christian Community including, Lady Serita Jakes, Sheryl Brady, Charles Jenkins, Earnest Pugh and more!

You can follow Tanika on Social

Website: www.tanikafitzgerald.com

Book Details: www.miscarriedjoy.com

Book Miscarried Joy

Facebook: Tanika Fitzgerald

Instagram: @tanikafitzgerald

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Book: As Sure as Tomorrow Comes: One Couple's Journey through Loss and Love

EP32 - Danielle and Chris Jones Infant Loss Story & Book: As Soon as Tomorrow Comes Feb 14, 2018

It's Black History Month! We are highlight 6 books and 6 authors of books around Faith, Miscarriage, Stillbirth, Infant and Pregnancy Loss, and Hope to continue on this grief journey.

In today's episode we have Danielle and Chris Jones. They share their Infant Loss Story of son Chris Jr, Chris Sr.'s Journey with Multiple Sclerosis, Danielle's breast health challenges, and how it was documented in their book As Sure as Tomorrow Comes: One Couple's Journey through Loss and Love. They also founded the Angel Baby Network out of the desire to help other parents who had surged pregnancy or infant loss.

In July 2015, Christopher Jones, Sr. and Danielle Jones had their first child, Christopher Jones, Jr. Christopher, Jr., also referred to as “Junior,” was born with multiple congenital abnormalities due to a genetic defect. At 10-days-old, his short life on earth ended, but his purpose was only beginning. Out of a desire to help other parents who had suffered pregnancy and infant loss, Danielle and a friend whose son was born still, Clarissa Doggett, started the Angel Baby Network. Their mission is to help parents who have endured a pregnancy and/or infant loss and to give them a hand to hold as they walk through such a devastating time in their lives. We exist to ensure that parents do not go through the death of their child alone by offering resources where they can get the help they need and social gatherings where they can connect with other parents who can identify with their circumstance. Danielle and Christopher Jones are a fun-loving couple who make sure to laugh every day. They have weathered a variety of storms throughout their lives, all while holding on to their faith in God and their love for each other. Founders of the Angel Baby Network, Chris and Danielle are passionate about supporting families who have endured child loss, and they seek to inspire others with their story, As Sure As Tomorrow Comes: One Couple’s Journey through Loss and Love

Danielle and Chris's Social Links

Angel Baby Network

Danielle's Instagram

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EP31 - Keanna Barnes Stillbirth Story & Fibroid Journey and Book: Journey to Peace Feb 07, 2018

Happy Black History Month! After a quick Amazon search, I realized there aren't many black authors of books in this Grief and Pregnancy Loss Community. For the next 6 weeks on the podcast we are featuring 6 Books from Black Authors around Faith, Miscarriage, Stillbirth, Infant and Pregnancy Loss, and Hope to continue on this grief journey.

In today's episode we have Keanna Barnes who shares her Stillbirth story and Fibroid Journey. She is the author of Journey to Peace a 31 Day Devotional: Through the Grief of Miscarriage, Stillbirth, or Other Pregnancy Loss. In this episode she shares her journey to getting pregnant with fibroids, how her miscarriage broke her heart into a million pieces, and her courage to try again and get pregnant with her current baby due in March 2018.

Nearly a year into their marriage, Keanna and her husband awere overcome with joy to find out we were pregnant! This was the first pregnancy for both of them so we were elated. Keanna went through all of the anticipation and nervousness that many first time mothers do. She struggled in trying not to google everything, she bought books, researched strollers, cribs, car seats, and every new baby gadget on the market. Keanna took prenatal yoga classes, aqua zumba, and she even hired a doula to help me through the pregnancy process. Even though she was very prepared, nothing could prepare her for what was to come. At her 27 week prenatal appointment, the nurse looked pretty alarmed when she saw her elevated blood pressure reading. Keanna assured her that it was because she just left work, but after they checked a second time, the nurse had her lie down while she waited for the doctor. Once the doctor was informed of her blood pressure, they insisted that she immediately go to the hospital. Before they ushered her out they wanted to check the baby’s heartbeat. As they rolled the Doppler over her stomach, Keanna's husband joked that their son was hiding from us. They searched and searched. Nothing. Keanna could feel her heart racing and her body getting hot because she knew that there was nowhere for her child to hide. This was the day that Keanna's heart was broken into a million pieces. By the grace of God, Keanna is still finding her own peace with what happened. In that peace, they were blessed to conceive for the second time and they are due in March 2018. Trying again was not an easy decision and neither is the road as the mother of an angel baby. This journey has brought my husband and I closer together and my 1st born son has taught me so much and I am grateful to God for him.

Keanna's Social Links

Book: Journey to Peace: A 31-Day Devotional Through the Grief of Miscarriage, Stillbirth, or Other Pregnancy Loss by Keanna Barnes

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EP30 - Morgan Goodwin's Incompetent Cervix Loss Story & Incompetent but Hopeful Blog Jan 31, 2018

In today's episode we have Morgan Goodwin who shares her incompetent cervix loss story and new blog Incompetent but Hopeful. Morgan Goodwin is married to Marquise Goodwin, wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers. Morgan was born and raised in Atlanta, GA before going to college at the University of Texas, at Austin. She has a bachelors in Public Relations and a Masters in Strategic communications. Morgan and her husband currently reside in Dallas, TX. They enjoy traveling and exploring different countries around the world. They also enjoy going to the gun range, cooking, and watching movies.

Most of us who watch football became familiar with the Goodwin's story back in November 2017. On Sunday, November 12, 2017, Morgan's husband Marquise scored an 83 yard touchdown on the same day their baby passed away prematurely. Marquise celebrated the touch down by blowing a kiss to the sky, dropped to his knees and broke down crying in the end zone. Morgan then went on instagram to post "This whole week has taken an emotional toll on my husband and I, Struggling to keep our healthy baby safe in my womb. However, God had other plans for us. Today, I had to deliver my precious baby boy early this morning due to preterm labor. Despite our loss, my hubby kept grinding, scored his son a touchdown & got our first “W” of the season. He had a wonderful game today. I️ appreciate everyone who kept us in their prayers and constantly checked in on us. This was truly and an amazing experience and it was also a tragic experience. But that’s okay because we won’t stop fighting and we won’t give up on what God has in store for us. It’s just important for us to remember that things happen for a reason, even though we may question ourselves “why us.” Our faith is strong..." In this interview Morgan share's what happened up until that day and that moment when she saw her husband make that touchdown, how her faith in God played a role in her grief, and how she is writing through her newest venture her blog Incompetent but Hopeful.

Morgan's Social Links

Morgan's Blog: Incompetent but Hopeful

Twitter

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EP29 - Aneisa's Loss Story, Infertility Journey, and My Hope Floats Blog Jan 24, 2018

In today's episode we have Aniesa Knapp who shares her 20 week pregnancy loss story of daughter Ava and her personal blog My Hope Floats. Aniesa is the mom to Angel Ava who was born into heaven at 20 weeks and has been married to her husband Don for 3 years. They live in Hartford County, Maryland with their fur baby Piper. Aniesa is a nurse and works as a home care nurse liaison. She created the My Hope Floats blog to continue to heal and to hopefully connect with others who have experienced pregnancy loss.

Aniesa and her husband Don became pregnant without even "trying" in July 2014, but didn't find out until August. They had just gotten married. Happiness, joy, a touch of anxiety. It was the "perfect" pregnancy. All bloodwork and vitals, both her and the babies, were good. No sickness, concerns or complications. At our 20 week anatomy scan, they found out they were having a girl. That was a Tuesday. They had our gender reveal that Saturday, November 1, 2014. Aniesa didn't know it at the time but her water broke. She thought it was her bladder. She did not have any pain, cramps or bleeding. Aniesa didn't think anything of it. The following Tuesday, she felt like she needed to hear her heartbeat. Aniesa went to her GYN. There was no heartbeat. She was then induced, dialated and delivered her baby girl. They started trying again 3 months later. By November 2016, they saw an RE for fertility testing and treatments. They did our first of 3 unsuccessful IUI's in November. They still are continuing to try naturally and ask God for a baby either naturally or by adoption.

Alesia's Social Links/Recommendations

Book: Grieving the Child I Never Knew

Book: Anxious for Nothing

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EP28 - Cassidy's Stillbirth Story and Born into Heaven Foundation Jan 17, 2018

In today's episode we have Cassidy M. Dear who share's her stillbirth story of daughter Courtney and the Born into Heaven Foundation. Cassidy has become an extreme advocate for stillbirth awareness ever since her own personal loss of her daughter Courtney in 2014. Cassidy strives to dedicate her time by uplifting parents in the community who have also been affected by stillbirth. In 2015 she founded Born Into Heaven Foundation as a financial resource for families in the state of Alabama. She oversees a volunteer board that is dedicated to relieving the financial burden of funeral cost for stillborn babies. Cassidy was awarded her bachelors in Social Work from Auburn University in December 2017. Cassidy lives in Opelika, Alabama with her family. She enjoys dancing and journaling. Born into Heaven Foundation is hosting their Spring Gala on April 14, 2018 in Opelika, Alabama to gather among others, mingle, dine, and support stillbirth awareness.

Cassidy's Social Links

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www.facebook.com/topcounseling

EP27 - Should we have Grief Goals for 2018? Jan 10, 2018

Do we need to have grief resolutions or grief goals for this year? In today's episode we have Pachuska Vil-Audain also known as Pat who shares her infertility experience and journey to starting a grief coaching business called Top Counseling. We discuss having and setting grief goals and resolutions. How can we make this New Year one filled with personal growth and inner peace from grief due to pregnancy loss. And how we can commit to our grief journey this year. Pat is a passionate and engaging coach and motivating speaker who works enthusiastically with individuals, couples, families, groups and companies to guide them from turning their dreams into realistic, attainiable & tangible goals. She has been working in the field of industrial psychology & social service since 2001 and she is thrilled to have turned her passion into a business that helps people accept themselves while living happier and healthier lifestyles. Pat focus on motivating & giving her clients the tools & techniques to identify their fears & transform their limited beliefs that keep them stuck from pursuing their goals. Top Counseling Services offers quality coaching services to get our clients motivated & inspired to live out their true purpose, create a more confident and empowered person who can deal with life changes.

Pat Vil-Audain Social Links

Contact number: 718-598-3306

Business Social media pages: Www.instagram.com/topcounseling

www.twitter.com/topcounseling

Business contact e-mail: topcounselingservices5@gmail.com

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EP26 - Doing What Scares You by Erica M. McAfee Jan 03, 2018

Happy New Year 2018!

Welcome Episode 26 of the Erica M. McAfee Podcast. Today’s podcast is brought to you by The Honey Pot company. Did you know that there was a black owned, plant based feminine care company? The Honey Pot companies goal is to educate, support and provide women around the world with the tools and resources that promote feminine health and wellness. To learn more about the Honey Pot Company and to get a discount on products visit EricaMMcAfee.com/Honey for more information.

Today’s episode is a solo episode of the podcast. I wanted to start the year off with chatting with you about the biggest lesson I learned from 2017, and doing what scares me by being Fearless in 2018. Before I begin, thank you to all who have rated, reviewed, and subscribed to the podcast in Apple Podcasts. You can still complete the Podcast Survey by visiting bit.ly/emmpodcastsurvey and you will be entered into a raffle for a $20 Amazon Gift Card. I love your feedback it helps me get an idea of what type of content you want to hear in the new year.

Thank you to those ladies who have joined the Sister’s in Loss facebook group. I did not expect the group to grow so much after just launching it in November. If you haven’t joined the facebook group please press pause on this episode and visit sistersinloss.com to join in. There is so much in store for 2018 that I will get into at the end of this episode. Once again you can join us by visiting sistersinloss.com to be apart of the community.

Now, lets get into this episode. What did I learn from 2017? I actually wrote an entire blogpost on the 10 lessons learned from 2017. You can go to EricaMMcAfee.com/Blog to read all of my lessons. But the greatest lesson I learned was that God’s plans are always greater than our plans. I started this podcast because God was pushing me to my purpose. I was being stubborn and not listening. But then the holy spirit will continue to bring to my remembrance 2 Timothy 1:7

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

Why was I being so fearful about walking in my purpose? Why did I not want to take action? What was I waiting for especially since I had “everything I needed” to take action. Let me tell you how long fear had me. My husband had gifted me a quality microphone and a new Macbook pro in Christmas of 2015. I waited until July 2017 to launch my website and August 2017 to launch this podcast. I cold emailed my first guest and the rest is history. Everyone has said yes of course I am willing to share. Yes, of course I’m ready to tell my testimony. Yes, of course I want to help other women heal from their loss. With over 1000+ downloads later God’s plans are always greater than our plans. So, what am I going into 2018 doing? Doing everything that scares me. Being Fearless. Living by 2 Timothy 1:7. God has given me the spirit of power, love and a sound mind. Not Fear!

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