Surviving the loss of a stillborn baby

Adley H.

Losing my firstborn son to stillbirth was the most devastating experience of my life. It shattered everything I thought I knew about grief, motherhood, and myself. There’s no way to prepare for the silence where a heartbeat should be, or the way time seems to stop while the world keeps moving forward without your child in it. In the aftermath, I was overwhelmed by a grief that felt impossible to carry. People often don’t know what to say, and sometimes say nothing at all—leaving you to navigate a heartbreak that few truly understand. I know the pain of baby showers, birthdays, and milestones that never come. I know the isolation, the guilt, the anger, and the desperate need for someone who just gets it. Over time, and with a lot of emotional work, I’ve learned to live alongside the loss. I still carry it—but I also carry love, memory, and meaning. I’m here to hold space for you in your grief, whether you’re deep in the early days or years into processing the ache that never fully goes away.

Becoming a parent for the first time

Adley H.

Becoming a parent for the first time changed me in ways I never expected. It cracked me open—emotionally, mentally, spiritually. I felt love so big it scared me. I also felt grief, fear, rage, and loneliness that no one warned me about. The world expects new parents to feel nothing but joy, but the truth is far more layered—especially if you carry trauma, mental health challenges, or didn’t grow up feeling safe or fully loved yourself. When I had my first living child, I was still healing from the devastating loss of my firstborn. That made parenthood even more emotional and sacred—but also incredibly hard. I was navigating grief while changing diapers. Trying to reparent myself while learning how to raise someone else. All while sleep-deprived, overwhelmed, and unsure if I was doing it "right." I’ve learned that parenting isn’t just about raising a child—it’s about becoming someone new. Shedding old identities. Confronting triggers. Stretching your heart beyond what you thought possible. And sometimes, it’s about quietly surviving the day and trying again tomorrow. If you’re in the thick of it—tired, unsure, deeply in love but also overwhelmed—I see you. You're not alone.

Building a life together as a same-sex couple

Alex H.

My partner and I have been together for decades, and over that time we’ve lived through many of the dynamics that long-term same-sex couples face: mismatched expectations, evolving ideas of monogamy, different levels of comfort around openness and vulnerability. Our early years were rocky, marked by uncertainty and growth at different paces. But over time, trust took root. Not everything became easy or perfectly aligned, but we learned how to stay in the work — how to stay curious, and to keep showing up for each other even when we didn’t always agree. We’ve also moved through big life questions that don’t always come with a map — like what commitment should look like when no one handed you a script, or how to make decisions about marriage when it wasn’t always legally available, or emotionally accessible. We’ve had conversations about having kids, and wrestled with what it would take — practically, financially, emotionally — to pursue that path. While we didn’t become parents, the process of facing those questions still shaped how we saw ourselves as a couple, and clarified what we were building together. We didn’t land where we are through certainty — but through conversation, through friction, and through letting the relationship evolve without needing it to resemble anyone else’s. If you’re trying to navigate your own version of partnership, wherever you are in the process, I’d be glad to talk.

Healing from trauma and reclaiming your strength

Anjelika marin A.

I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD—labels that helped me make sense of the chaos I had been carrying since childhood. Growing up, I endured both physical and emotional abuse, along with the pain of abandonment by those who were supposed to protect me. That kind of trauma leaves a mark—it shaped how I saw myself, how I trusted others, and how I moved through the world. There were years when just getting through the day felt like a battle specifically when I struggled with inferitily and overcoming grief from a miscarriage. I carried the quiet pain alone which left me left me feeling isolated, like the world kept moving while I stood still with a heart full of hope and loss. I know what it’s like to dream of becoming a parent, to imagine a future that never fully arrives, and to wrestle with both the physical and emotional weight of that journey. Along the way, I found myself supporting others—friends, family, and peers—who were navigating similar paths. I leaned on my own healing, my studies in child development, and my belief in the power of shared experience. I began to realize that just being there, truly listening, and offering evidence-based guidance could make a real difference. Now, as a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist and psychology student, I offer that same support to anyone going through these challenges. You deserve a space to process your emotions, ask hard questions, and know that you're not alone.

Staying sober when you're the anchor for your family

Darla V.

As a seventh-generation Floridian sailing the Keys, alcohol was always part of the picture but becoming a mom changed that. I got sober from drugs in 2009 when I found out I was pregnant in Hawaii. That moment flipped a switch: it wasn’t just about me anymore. Years later, I faced a wrongful DUI arrest. I passed legally, but it made one thing clear: when you're responsible for others, there’s no room for error. That’s when I committed to full sobriety from alcohol, too. I’ve parented through postpartum depression, supported my ex through heroin recovery, and recently helped talk a woman off a bridge. I’ve been the one falling apart, and the one holding it all together. Now, I stay sober because I’m the anchor for my kids, my family, and sometimes, for others who need someone steady. If you're navigating sobriety while balancing life’s chaos, I’m here to listen and support you.

Parenting through mental health struggles and supporting children with special needs

E. Rose T.

My journey as a mother has been one of resilience and growth, shaped by struggles I never expected but have learned to overcome. It all started with postpartum depression after the birth of my children, and soon after, I faced the additional challenge of parenting two children who needed early intervention and social care. As if that weren’t enough, I also found myself in an abusive relationship, and to cope with the trauma, I turned to alcohol. But over time, I realized that I had to make a change. I’ve worked hard to break free from the cycle of alcohol use and the trauma I endured, and I’m now proudly sober. I’ve also learned to be a fierce advocate for my children, navigating school systems and supporting them as they participate in activities they love—like sports—even when it meant finding creative ways to make it work despite having little experience myself.

The fertility journey after ovarian cancer

Elisabeth H.

At 17, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and although I was lucky to survive, I left that chapter knowing I wouldn’t be able to have biological children. At that age, I didn’t fully grasp what that meant but as I got older and dreamed of becoming a mother, the weight of that loss became more real. During my first marriage, we tried IVF a few times, hoping for a miracle, but each round ended in heartbreak. It was a lonely, emotional road filled with questions I couldn’t always answer and grief I didn’t know how to name. Eventually, we chose adoption, and I became a mom to a beautiful son who changed my world. The joy of raising him existed right alongside the complicated emotions of infertility and the life I once imagined. Over the years, I’ve supported others walking this path, especially women who are figuring out what motherhood might look like after cancer. It’s not easy to grieve what could have been while still embracing what is. If you’re navigating a fertility journey after illness, I’d be honored to hold space for your story.

The fertility journey after ovarian cancer

Elisabeth H.

At 17, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and although I was lucky to survive, I left that chapter knowing I wouldn’t be able to have biological children. At that age, I didn’t fully grasp what that meant but as I got older and dreamed of becoming a mother, the weight of that loss became more real. During my first marriage, we tried IVF a few times, hoping for a miracle, but each round ended in heartbreak. It was a lonely, emotional road filled with questions I couldn’t always answer and grief I didn’t know how to name. Eventually, we chose adoption, and I became a mom to a beautiful son who changed my world. The joy of raising him existed right alongside the complicated emotions of infertility and the life I once imagined. Over the years, I’ve supported others walking this path, especially women who are figuring out what motherhood might look like after cancer. It’s not easy to grieve what could have been while still embracing what is. If you’re navigating a fertility journey after illness, I’d be honored to hold space for your story.

Finding hope through infertility and pregnancy loss

Faith D.

I’m a mom who has walked through the heartbreak of infertility, miscarriages, and stillbirth. For years, I was stuck in waiting rooms, cycling through fertility clinics, facing disappointment after disappointment. There were days I couldn’t imagine ever becoming a mother and nights I wept over what I thought would never be. I’ve known the pain of loss and the weight of uncertainty, but I’ve also learned how to hold on to hope. Over time, and with support, I became a mom to two healthy boys and now have another on the way. My family doesn’t look exactly how I once imagined, but I wouldn’t trade our story for anything. Along this journey, I found strength in community, faith, and the quiet courage of showing up each day. I know what it’s like to feel out of control and desperately in need of compassion. Now, I’m here to offer that compassion to others—so you don’t have to face this alone.

Balancing motherhood and health challenges

Jessica I.

Life hasn’t always been easy, and I’ve faced my share of struggles. Growing up as the second oldest of six kids, I learned early how to juggle responsibilities, including helping raise my older sister’s children in their early years. My own journey as a mom has had its challenges, too—infertility, pregnancy loss, and health issues like POTS have all shaped my path. But perhaps the most challenging experience was a serious car accident that left me feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. I struggled with suicidal thoughts before seeking therapy, and it was through that therapy that I was able to heal and rebuild my sense of purpose. As a parent, I’ve encountered many obstacles, from advocating for my son’s speech development to learning that a small but significant health issue—an ear bead that had been lodged in his ear for eight years—was affecting his hearing and development. Through patience, perseverance, and a willingness to explore natural and alternative solutions, I’ve learned how to face the obstacles in my life with resilience.

Navigating infertility and the emotional challenges of the journey

Kathleen C.

I’m Kathleen, and my infertility journey began when I met my husband at 40. We quickly realized that conceiving wasn’t as easy as we’d hoped. The emotional toll of infertility was overwhelming, especially since my husband often traveled for work, leaving me to navigate it on my own. I explored options like adoption and surrogacy, but each step came with its own challenges. Through this experience, I learned how crucial it is to have support: whether from family, friends, or professionals. Over time, I found ways to cope with the emotional strain and learned to be kinder to myself. I want to help others facing infertility feel less isolated and more empowered during their journey. One experience that stands out was supporting a close friend through five miscarriages. I accompanied her to appointments and offered a listening ear, which reinforced how important it is to have someone by your side. I’m here to offer that same support to anyone navigating infertility.

Navigating postpartum depression and anxiety

Kathryn D.

When my son was born, I thought the hard part was over. But what I didn’t expect was how much harder the emotional side would hit me. Sleep deprivation, hormonal shifts, and a sudden sense of loneliness made every day feel overwhelming. I had struggled with anxiety and depression before, but postpartum felt like an entirely different world. Therapy helped, but what made the biggest difference was learning to be patient and kind to myself, especially when friends and family weren’t always there in the way I needed. The experience opened my eyes to things I had never experienced before, and now I want to share what I’ve learned. I want to help other new moms feel less alone and remind them that it’s okay to ask for help, set boundaries, and put their mental health first.

Overcoming traumas and learning to live again

Katrina N.

I am a 38 yr. old, INFJ, single mother of a precocious POC 3 yr. old daughter. My fiancée is a trans man, who is my 1st healthy relationship at 37 yrs old. I specialize in trauma! From being human trafficked to childhood rape, rape by my child's father and even having a BF threaten me with a revolver. You have a choice to let life continue to make a victim of you or keep living and learning. I chose the latter despite becoming disabled with a painful nerve condition at 22. It left me feeling altogether useless and unworthy of even basic respect. These feelings, paired with my conservative upbringing, allowed unscrupulous men to take advantage of me time and again. My condition slowly stole my mobility and health but I still had a mind and I used it! in 2025 I got my LASS degree. It's never too late to go back to school. To discover hobbies and passions, and to even stand up for others. I can be pessimistic, but I never stop trying. That's the key to life.

How a miscarriage can affect your psyche

Keran M.

I did not do anything wrong. I went to the doctor and had no problems. I ate well. Slept well. Had a happy life with a new puppy. Continued doing moderate walking and was excited to welcome a child into my marriage. One afternoon, I was craving ice cream and my husband said he would run to the store to pick up a gallon. The last thing I remember was going to the bathroom and the next thing I saw were the bright lights of a hospital room. I had lost my child and I have no idea what happened. The doctor said I was perfectly healthy and there were no telling signs. I asked him what I did wrong and he said, 'Nothing. Sometimes these things just happen and there is no explanation." I pondered over our talk several times and even called him back to talk to the doctor again but there was no explanation in my case. The best thing to know was that I was healthy and there were no complications and I could try again but in my mind, I still worried. If this has happened to you - let's talk.

Navigating life as a single mom with a teen

Kori W.

I’m a single mom raising a teenage daughter, and my journey has been filled with challenges. I grew up with a difficult childhood and later experienced the pain of infidelity and abuse in a military marriage. Along the way, I suffered the heartbreak of three miscarriages, which added another layer of grief to my life. Over the past 14 years, I've faced serious health issues that tested my strength. Yet, despite all of this, I’ve built a new life focused on helping others. I’ve pursued studies in cultural anthropology and mental health for kids and parents, learning how to manage crises and find resilience in even the hardest times. My passion lies in supporting others who are going through their own struggles, offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart. I’d love to connect with anyone who’s navigating similar challenges, particularly as a parent or someone working through grief and health issues.

Balancing parenthood and a professional career

Kristi G.

Becoming a parent later in life brought both joys and challenges I hadn’t expected. While some parenting experiences feel universal, I’ve learned that others — like balancing parenthood with a professional life or navigating the world as a parent of color — can be deeply unique. I’ve also found that parenting isn’t just about raising children, but about learning how to show up in different spaces, including among other parents, at schools, and in communities that don’t always reflect my own experiences. Along the way, I’ve thought a lot about how to advocate for my child, connect with the right support services, and step into leadership roles where needed. My journey has taught me that parenthood is about more than just surviving the day-to-day — it’s about building belonging for both yourself and your child.

Parenting through postpartum depression and loss

Lesa P.

When I became a mom just after turning 18, I had no idea what I was in for. I loved my daughter deeply, but I was still growing up myself—and trying to do it all alone. A few years later, I was in nursing school, pregnant again, and just barely holding it together when I found out my son had a serious heart condition. The next chapter was full of hospital visits, sleepless nights, and moments where I honestly didn’t know how I’d make it through. He eventually passed away. That loss cracked me open in a way I didn’t know was possible. There were days I felt numb, or angry, or like I was just pretending to be okay for the sake of my daughter. Postpartum depression hit hard, and for a while, I didn’t have the words to explain what I was feeling. But slowly, I started asking for help. Therapy helped. So did letting people in. Now, years later, I’ve learned how to carry both grief and joy—and I try to be someone others can lean on when things feel impossible.

Navigating the journey of infertility and pregnancy loss

Madison G.

Hi, I’m Madison! My journey to becoming a mom was anything but easy. After years of struggling with infertility and experiencing heartbreaking miscarriages, I turned to IVF. Finally, after a long and emotional journey, I became a mom to my beautiful rainbow baby boy. While the joy of parenthood is incredible, it’s also accompanied by grief. I still navigate the "what ifs" and the loss of the children I never got to meet. Even now, with my 3-year-old, I continue to process the emotional scars that linger from the years of trying to build my family. For over four years, I’ve had the privilege of hosting support groups for women facing infertility, pregnancy loss, and the mental challenges of parenthood after loss. It’s been rewarding to help others find their strength and build a sense of community with others who truly understand. I would love to be here for anyone who is experiencing similar challenges and to help them feel supported, heard, and empowered in their journey.

Navigating postpartum depression, anxiety, and healing after abuse

Margarida V.

I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for much of my life, but nothing prepared me for the depths of postpartum depression after the birth of my son. It hit me hard—different from anything I had experienced before—and it took a long time to realize that fear and guilt were shaping every part of my early parenting journey. Learning that I could only control so much, and that doing my best was truly enough, was one of the hardest but most freeing lessons. In my personal life, I also have experience supporting others through deeply difficult times, including helping a close friend leave a dangerous and abusive relationship. I know firsthand that true healing often starts by simply having someone willing to listen without judgment. Today, I’m passionate about offering that same space for others: whether you need resources, a sounding board, or simply someone to sit with you while you figure it out, I’m here.

Staying active and grounded through pregnancy changes

Nancy N.

When I was pregnant, I got a lot of advice some helpful, some just plain confusing. I’ve always been passionate about fitness, especially weightlifting, so being told not to lift more than 50 pounds felt like a punch to my identity. I wasn’t reckless, but I needed support that actually fit me, not just general rules. I had to figure out what worked for my body and how to adapt smartly. At the same time, I was working a demanding job in tech and trying to plan for a future that suddenly included way more unknowns (and diapers). I ended up talking to friends, moms, even strangers at the gym who’d been through it, and that’s when things clicked: this journey doesn’t have to be solo. One woman I met was pregnant and in pain, frustrated that she couldn't move like she used to. I shared my story, recommended a pelvic floor therapist, and later she told me it changed everything. That felt amazing. I’ve also helped other new moms in my gym community find resources and reclaim their confidence postpartum.