Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Grief, Breastfeeding, and Care

In this essay, I share a bit about my story of grief and breastfeeding. I also share some thoughts about the cultural grief some people are carrying about the lack of support afforded to lactating families whose goal it is to feed their baby from their body. I use some gendered language throughout this essay…

Janice – “It’s hard work”

Janice explains that hard work is necessary to reach the calm and peace.

Katie “Ongoing Grief”

Katie talks about the loss of her mother.

Janice – “Feelings”

Janice talks about the importance of allowing our feelings as that’s the only way to get through them.

Craig – My Cumulative Grief

Craig shares his story of experiencing a series of significant losses over the course of two years. He talks about the shock, grief, and uncertainty he felt during this time, and how he coped with the accumulation of loss.Craig’s story is a reminder that grief is a normal and natural response to loss, but it can be overwhelming when it comes in waves. If you are experiencing grief, it is important to reach out for support from friends, family, or a therapist. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone experiences it differently. The important thing is to be patient with yourself and to allow yourself to feel your emotions.

Cheryl – “Complicated Grief”

Cheryl discusses unresolved grief.

Jacqueline – Advice to Younger Self

Jacqueline talks about seeking help and being kind to yourself

Chantal – Anticipatory grief

Chantal defines antipatory grief and the grief before the physical loss

Christian – “Grief can bring new life”

Christian explains where he found hope in grief.

Madelyn – Grieving process as a 2nd generation Canadian

Madelyn talks about being a 2nd generation Canadian, some things she has learend working in palliative care as a music therapist

Maureen – “Anger”

Maureen talks about the power of anger and how to deal with it.

Amanda – “Listening”

Amanda shares the importance of listening and being comfortable with silence.