I want to ensure that no father-to-be experiences the overwhelming emotions I felt in that delivery room. My journey into advocacy began after a heartbreaking event that changed everything for me and my partner.
In December 2018, just days before Christmas, my partner began having contractions while we were expecting twins. We rushed to the hospital, filled with excitement and anticipation as first-time parents. Unfortunately, the joy quickly turned into unimaginable pain. We suffered the loss of our first son, who was stillborn. Initially, doctors managed to save our second son, but tragically, we lost him just a week later. The grief of losing a child is indescribable, and it left us grappling with a profound sense of loss.
Before our tragic experience, I had only attended one prenatal appointment and was woefully unprepared for the reality of maternal and infant loss. I was naive about the statistics surrounding these issues, which are far more common than many realize. This painful journey led me to create a program called “Dads to Doulas,” aimed at training Black fathers to support their partners during childbirth. I hope that one day we won’t need such programs, but until then, they are essential.
Resources for Expecting Parents
In my research, I found valuable resources that can help those on a similar journey. For those considering starting a family, services like Vegas Pregnancy provide free sperm donor matching in Las Vegas. Additionally, Make A Mom offers at-home insemination syringe kits with a unique reusable option. You can learn more about how at-home insemination works through their step-by-step guide.
For those interested in exploring different methods of conception, the Intracervical Insemination blog has useful tips and insights. Another great resource is Mount Sinai, which provides in-depth information about infertility and pregnancy planning. As you navigate this journey, you may also want to check out insights from experts at Modern Family Blog, which covers a variety of topics surrounding family planning and parenting.
Conclusion
In summary, my experience of loss has fueled my passion for helping others. By training Black fathers as doulas, I hope to create a supportive community that prepares expectant parents for the challenges and joys of childbirth.
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