Angie chats today to Heather Taylor, our Principal Peer Supporter, who talks about her own journey as a bereaved parent to her precious daughter Eilidh, who died 26 years ago and to Mhairi Hayes, whose much loved daughter, Niamh died in early 2020. 

Together they reflect on the differences and similarities on the steps that they took on the road, when they reached out for support, how they found the support that was available and what they might have done differently if they knew what they know now. 

They also talk about how much support friends and family can give and the challenges that they faced and the importance of simply being there in support, sometimes with no words, but just a listening ear and a hand to hold. 

We discussed how much things have changed over the years in terms of understanding around baby loss, but also the need for more compassion in the workplace and for more open conversations about baby loss and the support that bereaved parents need.

In this episode, Nicola talks to Heather, Lindsay and Katy who are all peer supports at Held In Our Hearts.  They discuss many aspects of peer support and answer questions from the public about their role and the support they offer bereaved parents.   If you have ever wondered what peer support is or have wondered if it might help you , then listen in and learn a bit about their vital role within the charity.

Tracy talks to Michael McQuire from Fort William and his incredible journey as a bereaved dad and how he channeled his own grief after the death of his beautiful son Kyle to support others.

From setting up the charity Aman Cara and working tirelessly to fund a place that parents can go after the death of their baby.

He talks about his dream to see baby loss charities unite and climb his beloved Ben Nevis together and in setting up Big Steps for Small Feet that dream became a reality in 2021 and again in 2022 where 74 hardy souls were about to  tackle Snowdon in Wales.

He talks about his love for his daughter Amelia and his wife Rachel who have worked hard to support his challenges and how he is grateful to everyone who has made it possible to work together on such amazing projects.