Jaime, Spreading HOPE for Sweet Pea & James
Jaime Skidmore, sharing her story in memory of Sweet Pea and James
“In 2018, we faced the heartbreaking reality of an early miscarriage, which marked the beginning of our challenging fertility journey. By October 2022, we were overjoyed when our fertility treatments led to a pregnancy. Yet, I couldn't fully embrace the happiness, knowing the fragility of our situation. For those who’ve experienced pregnancy loss, it’s difficult to celebrate with the shadow of potential heartbreak.
During our routine 12-week scan, we discovered some concerning anomalies that required further investigation. A week later, at the specialist clinic, we were devastated to learn that our baby had Trisomy 13, a chromosomal condition incompatible with life. We were overcome with sorrow. We prayed, consulted genetic counselors, and sought answers, hoping for a miracle that our baby would defy the odds.
In January 2023, we made the heart-wrenching decision to end the pregnancy so our precious son, James, could find peace. The experience profoundly transformed me. My heart, now more open, recognizes a depth of love I hadn’t known before.
James is deeply missed every single day, yet his presence has brought a newfound beauty to my life. We honor him by sharing his story and remembering him in our daily lives. We planted a lemon tree in his memory, and seeing it bloom and bear fruit has been a bittersweet blessing. Through this journey, I've learned that even when life hands you lemons, there can still be beauty.
July 2024 was an especially poignant month for us as we commemorated the time when James would have been in our arms. We came together as a family, reading a special book we had chosen for him, and smudging, prayer, and reflection on the profound love we hold for him.
To our surprise, just days later, we received the incredible news of a positive pregnancy test. Life had once again shown us that hope can emerge from the depths of sorrow. In March 2024, we welcomed our beautiful rainbow baby into our lives. We make sure to share stories of his big brother James with him, honouring the special place James holds in our hearts.
Being connected with RTZ was pivotal in navigating the painful process of ending a wanted pregnancy. Through a support group, I found a community of mothers who truly understood my complex grief. RTZ provided invaluable resources and support tailored to those dealing with such loss, filling a critical gap and offering a lifeline. It is crucial that this kind of support continues to be available for others in the future.
October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month.
Our HOPEtober annual event honors all losses on the journey to parenthood.
Even though so many of us have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, or know someone who has, it is a loss that exists in the shadows. As bereaved parents, we feel isolated and alone. But together, we can shine a light on pregnancy and infant loss, helping others to live a life that holds both grief and joy.
HOPEtober Luminaries partner with us during the month of October to be an advocate and ambassador in spreading awareness and shining a light on pregnancy and infant loss. By sharing our stories we’re bringing awareness to pregnancy and infant loss, as well as the resources and support that exist through Return to Zero: Hope. As a nonprofit, raising awareness and funds are essential to our cause and support programs.
We'd be grateful if you you would consider making a contribution to Jaime’s fundraiser in honor of James. Your gift ensures that other parents who endure loss on their journey to parenthood have the support, resources, and community they need in order to navigate life after loss.
This year our goal is to raise $75,000 during the month of October so that we can continue spread hope and healing by providing resources and support to grieving families and their care providers.
Thank you for helping to shatter the silence around pregnancy & infant loss.