))
E23: Father’s Day Amidst the Heartache of Miscarriage
Manage episode 424211247 series 3516120
Content provided by Kelly Jean-Philippe & Christopher Cheatham, Kelly Jean-Philippe, and Christopher Cheatham. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Kelly Jean-Philippe & Christopher Cheatham, Kelly Jean-Philippe, and Christopher Cheatham or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Welcome to episode 23!
Navigating Father’s Day after experiencing a miscarriage is a journey fraught with complex emotions. Imagine the heartache of balancing the joy of being a present father with the sorrow of losing a child, or the agony of wishing someone a "Happy Father's Day" as you're struggling to become a father. Chris and I share our stories, contrasting the grief we felt before and after welcoming our living children. We provide a candid look at the struggle of facing Father’s Day, hoping to normalize these feelings and offer a supportive space for other dads in similar situations.
The episode doesn't shy away from the feeling of emptiness and fraudulence that can accompany a miscarriage, particularly on days meant for celebration. We discuss how societal expectations of happiness often clash with personal grief, leading to feelings of guilt and helplessness. One father’s story of losing his newborn to an unforeseen infection highlights the innate responsibility fathers feel to protect their children, and the heartbreak when they cannot, despite their best efforts. Our conversation underscores the importance of acknowledging and validating these emotions.
We close with an emphasis on the enduring aspects of fatherhood that persist even in the absence of a child. Through heartfelt anecdotes, we explore love, memories, and dreams tied to our lost children, and encourage grieving fathers to honor their memories. Healing is a personal journey, and it’s essential to recognize that despite the physical absence, the bond between a father and his child remains unbroken. Join us as we validate these emotions and affirm the lasting connection shared with our children, living or not.
Thank you for tuning in to find solace, gain understanding, and embark on your healing journey with us!
Sincerely,
Kelly & Chris
Follow on IG @themiscarriagedad
Email themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
Make sure you subscribe!
Write us a review!
Chapters
1. Navigating Father's Day After Miscarriage (00:00:00)
2. Navigating Father's Day After Loss (00:14:22)
3. Validating Fatherhood After Loss (00:25:45)
4. Honoring Fatherhood After Loss (00:36:40)
27 episodes
Share
