43 | Healing Through Story: Jen Mansfield on Grief After the NICU
EPISODE 43
In this episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, host Andrea Hickson speaks with Jen Mansfield, a licensed professional counselor and mother, who shares her profound journey through the NICU and the loss of her son, Adam, born at 24 weeks.
Jen reflects on the overwhelming experience of the NICU, the meaningful connections with the staff, and the support from her community. She discusses the challenges of transitioning home after Adam's passing and the healing practices that helped her navigate grief, including narrative therapy. Jen's story is one of resilience, love, and the importance of community support during difficult times. Content note: This episode includes discussion of infant loss and may be emotionally triggering for some listeners. Please care for yourself as you listen.
Photos from Adam’s Garden courtesy of Jen Mansfield.
Quick Notes from the Episode:
The NICU experience can be overwhelming but also filled with meaningful moments.
Connections with NICU staff can become lifelong relationships.
Community support is crucial during times of grief and loss.
Transitioning home after the NICU can be challenging, especially after loss.
If you have a friend who is going through a loss like this, offer to bring them dinner, it will be so helpful for them to not have to think about little things like that.
Setting small, achievable goals can aid in the healing process.
Narrative therapy allows individuals to control their own story and healing journey.
Sharing updates through a group can alleviate the burden on families in crisis.
Celebrating small milestones can bring joy during difficult times.
Music and reading were important for Adam's development in the NICU.
Journaling can provide clarity and emotional release. Writing your story helps in understanding your experience.
Sharing your story can make it easier to discuss with others.
Grief is not a linear experience; it can fluctuate.
Don't shy away from using the name of your lost loved one.
Support for NICU families can come from shared experiences.
Being open about your journey can help others.
It's okay to feel joy and grief simultaneously.
SPECIAL THANKS:
A special thanks to the Prolacta Bioscience Foundation for supporting the NICU Alumni podcast!
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The purpose of this podcast is for entertainment only and should not be viewed as medical advice.