Michelle La Fontaine, a bereaved parent and advocate, shared her personal journey of grief – from the joy of expecting twins to the sudden reality of losing both of her twins, Elora and Joseph, in pregnancy week 21.
Sharing both positive care experiences and areas where support fell short (such as gynaecological follow-up or grief support), she stressed the need for comprehensive and compassionate care.
The words used by healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a lasting impact, which is why Ms La Fontaine emphasised connection over perfection in communicating with grieving families. She urged professionals to normalise the grieving process and gently remind parents of options like holding and bathing their babies to create cherished memories.
In her role as the Programme Manager for the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Network in Ontario, Canada, she highlighted the organisation’s vital work in providing free peer support, advocacy, and evidence-based workshops for both healthcare professionals and bereaved parents and families.
Let’s take action and advocate for compassionate care for families experiencing loss. Whether you are a professional or a family in need of support, join the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Network at www.pailnetwork.ca.