web sites for grieving mom

 
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dovey cape cod, MA posts: 158
2009 Advisor
posted on June 18, 2009 at 10:17AM Inappropriate? Quote Reply

Just wondering if anyone knows of a good site for a woman who has given birth to a baby who didn't make it. A friend just lost her son in labor and I am at a loss as to how to help. Words don't seem enough.  I am going to make a donation to her favorite charity in her sons name (if that is ok with her). ANyone know of a website that offers support? thanks 

replies: 7 latest post: June 22, 2009 at 01:22PM by dovey
2009 VIP
posted on June 18, 2009 at 02:20PM
 

I'm so sorry to hear that Dovey. Sorry I don't know of an online space. Maybe see if she will go out to lunch pretty soon. Easy to stay in and be sad during such a time.

2008 VIP
posted on June 19, 2009 at 05:54PM
 

I'm sorry to hear that.  Losing a child upsets the natural order of things.  One isn't suppose to outlive a child.

Having lost a baby shortly after birth, I was most appreciative of friends who didn't try to "fix me".  I loved the hugs and kindness- not words of "I know how you feel" [and then proceed to tell me about a miscarriage] or the "it was nature's way" or "you will be able to have another one".   A woman's body goes through a lot in the delivery process and the body is ready for a baby- milk comes in, bodies need to heal- yet, it doesn't understand that there is no baby.  Emotions can run wild and cause physical manifestations as well.

There are support groups and if necessary, there is professional counseling.  It is surprising how many women have lost a baby. She may find strength with others who have experienced that same loss.

A good friend, an understanding husband and time can help heal a lot.

 

2008 VIP
posted on June 19, 2009 at 06:00PM
 

P.S. Another thing to do is to read about the grieving process.  It helps to recognize the steps of grief.

2009 Advisor
posted on June 20, 2009 at 12:44PM
 

Your idea of a donation honoring her son seems lovely...I think most people would be appreciative, but I agree with you on checking with her first.  Grief can be so personal that some people don't want it publicized.

There's a private web community called Hannah's Prayer Ministries...it's a faith-based group and is for women coping with infertility and loss of children.  (On the www it's hannah.org you you can google Hannah's Prayer).  If she is person of faith (from what i've seen it's fairly conservative Christian), she may find it helpful.  I agree with Meri that professional counseling may also be appropriate (in time).  A lot of private counseling centers have someone who specializes in women's issues and may be able to link her with support groups as well. 

2009 VIP
posted on June 21, 2009 at 09:23PM
 

I'm sorry to hear of your friend's loss. What a tough time and it sounds like you are such a caring person and trying to be there for her. Many people pull away from someone who is grieving, but people who are grieving may just want someone to be there. Offering to do specific practical things like helping out with cleaning, yard work, other kids, etc. can be such a help to some who are grieving. After the first few weeks, many people move on with their lives and that's when the reality seems to particularly hit many people. Continuing to be available may be particularly helpful.

Here's an informative website related to hospice that includes quite a bit of information, if you are interested in learning more:

http://www.hospicenet.org/

Hope something here will help.

2009 Writer
posted on June 22, 2009 at 12:40PM
 

I am so sorry for your friend.  I have lost four babies due to miscarriage I can't imagine delivering a baby that didn't make it.  I do have four children that are alive and well. 

I hope these sites help. MCM

http://www.stillborn-angels.memory-of.com

http://www.honoredbabies.org/support.htm

 

2009 Advisor
posted on June 22, 2009 at 01:22PM
 

oh, thank you everyone. You have given me some places to start. i have never gone through losing a baby, I can only imagine how heartbreaking it must be.

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