The Forgotten Toll

I remember clearly the excitement my parents had when TIm and I told them we were having a baby. They already had one grandson that they cherished so were obviously over the moon to learn they would soon have another.

I remember the chats I had with my mum when we would catch up, about motherhood and giving birth. In fact, I remember the time we were sitting in a Victor Harbour Cafe and I was telling her I think I will be fine with the pain of giving birth as I had suffered migraines for years, especially as medicine did not help me in any way to relieve my suffering. Whether that was going to be the case, is irrelevant now, these are just the typical discussions I had when pregnant with Celeste.

I also remember all to clearly when they walked into my hospital room, knowing that their second grandchild had just passed away. I remember my dad hugging me and saying sorry, I remember the pain on their faces knowing that not only had they lost a grandchild, but their heart was breaking for their daughter in what she had lost.

Like many dads. grandparents put the feelings of their own child first, their friends ask them, how is Michelle coping, are they ok. But who asks the grandparents if they are ok, who supports them through their loss, the loss of their hopes and dreams with another grandchild.

I am fortunate to have parents who supported me and still do today. They were never afraid to talk about Celeste, they have always had a special place in their home and hearts for her.

So, when we talk about raising money to help those affected by stillbirth, we do not just mean the parents. 

Thanks for sticking around 

Michelle x