Radio 4 feature

There was a feature on Radio 4 this morning called, 'We Need To Talk About Stillbirth'. So many issues were raised in that feature which I fully agree with.

There is so much stigma around stillbirth. I know of so many people, and I would fall into the category myself, of not mentioning the child that has died because people may feel uncomfortable. The question, 'how many children do you have', is an example. Do I mention Patrick? There is a real feeling among bereaved families about not mentioning the child in case it makes the other person uncomfortable.

I always think about other family members who have died. There is no stigma around a mother or father, or brother or sister, passing away and those people are remembered by their family. Why is it different for a child born sleeping?

I do wonder how other people view stillbirth. I think there is some feeling of there being something wrong with the mother, or family, as to why the child was stillborn. Maybe this is why the child is never really mentioned. It is heartbreaking for the family.

I love hearing of other people trying to change society's perception of stillbirth. That is what I am trying to do here in fact. I hope I see the stigma around stillbirth disappear in my lifetime.