Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Jefferson.
Caroline, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My son gained his angel wings during the 39th week of my pregnancy. For the months and years following his passing, I had a very difficult time finding resources to help me cope with my loss. I used to feel isolated in a room full of people and I didn’t understand how to manage my grief in a healthy way. I realized that I wasn’t alone and that other bereaved parents shared similar feelings and experiences. I made it my mission to help other families who have a precious baby in Heaven. That’s how Parents of an Angel got started.
Parents of an Angel is a comforting community for grieving parents. Through this online community, I provide resources, comfort, and support to moms (and dads) who have experienced pregnancy and/or infant loss. My goal is to give bereaved families and their support systems an easy way to find the things that I desperately needed while I grieved my son.
In addition to publishing content at Parents of an Angel, I also advocate for pregnancy and infant loss awareness and affordable mental health access.
In January 2020, I published “Heartache, Healing, & Hope: The story of one mom’s courageous journey after pregnancy loss.” This book is a collection of short stories that help moms navigate through the different feelings and experiences with grief.
Has it been a smooth road?
The hardest part about being a Community Manager for Parents of an Angel is that I am a member of the community I serve. I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve my fellow grieving parents; it’s a blessing that I do not take for granted. That also means that there are times when talking about grief and pregnancy loss can be difficult for me. I still get emotional before interviews and cry when I write. I thank God for revealing the purpose behind my pain, but I wouldn’t be completely truthful if I said that this calling has been easy.
Growing up in the church my entire life, I remember that the Lord is the source of my strength, and he always supplies me with what I need, mentally and emotionally. On those difficult days, I reflect on my favorite scripture, Joshua 1:9. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord, your God will be with you wherever you go.”
(I love this scripture because my son’s name is Joshua and he was born sleeping on the 19th of June.)
We’d love to hear more about Parents of an Angel.
Parents of an Angel is an online blog and resource for moms and dads who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. We provide support to bereaved parents through transparent conversations, an online community, and a safe space to navigate life after loss.
The Parents of an Angel online boutique is coming in Fall 2020. I look forward to offering grieving parents a place to shop for memorial keepsakes and products to help with healing.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Statistics show that one in every four pregnancies will end in pregnancy or infant loss. Unfortunately, the need for community and support will always be there. My hope is that in the years to come, access to mental health resources like therapists and support groups will be much easier for everyone.
Parents of an Angel will be around for many, many years. My work in this space is just beginning and I pray that I can continue to offer grieving families the support that my husband and I couldn’t find after our loss.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://parentsofanangel.com
- Email: caroline@parentsofanangel.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/parentsofanangel
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentsofanangel/
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