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Summary:

In this episode of the "Invisible Condition" podcast, host Tim Reitsma talks with Angel, a registered nurse from British Columbia, who courageously shares her journey through recurrent pregnancy loss. Angel opens up about the emotional rollercoaster and physical toll these experiences have taken on her and her family. Her story transitions into a broader discussion on the invisible nature of miscarriage, highlighting the stigma and silence that often surrounds this painful subject. Angel's insights reveal the hurtful and insensitive comments that exacerbate the suffering of those grieving, underscoring a significant societal understanding and compassion gap.

Moving from personal narrative to advocacy, Angel discusses how her experiences fueled a transition in her career towards providing specialized support for women enduring miscarriage, pregnancy after loss, and the postpartum period. She emphasizes the importance of open conversations, education, and awareness to dismantle the stigmas associated with pregnancy loss. Angel also touches on loss's profound impact on both parents, advocating for the need to check in on families as a whole. Angels shares her vision for a future where pregnancy loss is normalized, and individuals feel safe to share their experiences, fostering a community of support and understanding that acknowledges and honours the complexity of navigating pregnancy loss.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of miscarriage and the importance of open conversations, compassionate support, and collective action toward healing and awareness.

Takeaways:

• Recurrent Pregnancy Loss is a Shared Journey: Angel's story highlights that the journey of miscarriage and pregnancy loss is not only a physical and emotional challenge for the individual but also deeply affects partners and families, underscoring the need for collective support and understanding.
• Breaking the Silence: The conversation emphasizes the importance of talking openly about miscarriage to combat the stigma and discomfort that often accompanies this experience. Sharing stories can create a more compassionate and informed society.
• Compassionate Support is Crucial: Angel discusses the significance of receiving and offering compassionate support during times of loss, including simple gestures like checking in, listening, and acknowledging the pain and loss experienced by individuals and families.
• Awareness and Education Can Change Perceptions: By educating ourselves and others about the realities of pregnancy loss, we can shift societal perceptions, reduce stigma, and foster a more supportive environment for those affected.
• Naming and Remembering Lost Babies: Angel shares how naming her angel babies was an integral part of her healing process, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and remembering lost pregnancies as part of the family's story.
• Actionable Steps Towards Healing: The episode illustrates that healing from pregnancy loss involves both seeking and offering support, advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, and finding tangible ways to remember and honour lost pregnancies.

Contact Links:

Website: https://www.babybeanconsulting.ca/
Instagram: @babybeanconsulting
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/angel-leung-19130310b/

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