TFMR and Spina Bifida: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Emma French

In this emotional episode, we sit down with Emma French, who shares her deeply personal story of pregnancy, loss, and healing. Emma takes us back to that fateful moment in October 2018 when she discovered she was expecting her first child, just as she was about to embark on a girls' weekend for her 30th birthday. 

The journey seemed hopeful as Emma underwent various tests and scans, which initially indicated a low-risk pregnancy. However, at the 20-week scan, everything changed in an instant. Emma and her husband received the heartbreaking news that their baby had a severe case of spina bifida. Emma bravely opens up about the difficult decision they had to make and the termination of pregnancy that followed, including the emotional aftermath and the delicate process of saying goodbye to their precious baby girl Holly.

Emma shares her experiences of navigating grief while her closest friends were still expecting their own babies, highlighting the complex emotions and shifting dynamics that emerged during this challenging time. Returning to work and facing the world without a pregnancy bump, Emma shares the struggles of opening up to strangers and finding the strength to rebuild her life.

The podcast delves into the profound impact of loss on relationships, as Emma discusses how she and her husband coped with their grief in vastly different ways. She candidly shares the journey of seeking professional help and finding solace through therapy, not only to process her grief but also to navigate subsequent pregnancies, resulting in the birth of their two healthy and happy sons.

Emma unveils the regrets and reflections she carries, including the profound moments of what-ifs and the struggle to balance her own emotions with those of her husband. We delve into her relationships with her pregnant friends during that time, the ways in which her loss affected their pregnancies, and the challenges of being there for them while grappling with her own grief.

Ultimately, this episode serves as a testament to the power of sharing, understanding, and embracing hope in the face of unimaginable loss. Emma's story is a tribute to her beloved baby Holly and a source of courage for those who may be navigating their own journey of loss and healing.

Note: This podcast episode includes sensitive content surrounding pregnancy loss and may not be suitable for all listeners. Listener discretion is advised.