Bereaved parents whose baby daughter died after just nine weeks have spoken of the invaluable difference counselling sessions made in terms of helping them get their lives back on track.
Natalie and James Smith have been receiving bereavement support from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) since the death of baby daughter Quinn, in February 2023.
She had a severe infection that led to major heart problems and spent half her short life in hospital, mainly at Great Ormond Street (GOSH), in London.
Natalie and James have been attending fortnightly counselling sessions ever since, in order to help them come to terms with their grief. The couple have been working closely with EACH counsellor Nikki Day.
“We’re unbelievably grateful to have met Nikki,” said Natalie, from Haverhill.
“She came into our lives at a very challenging time, and we were in such a different place to where we are now.
“A lot has changed, and she listened to all our weird and wonderful stories along the way, never judging us or making us feel we were doing something wrong.
“We were sceptical about letting a stranger into our lives at such a vulnerable time.
“However, I’m so glad we did. We met a truly wonderful person and will never forget the impact she had on our lives.
“I’d encourage all families to reach out, even if they’re unsure whether counselling is for them. Just give it a try.”
Although their counselling sessions have now come to an end, Natalie and James plan to stay involved with the hospice and attend future EACH events.
The couple have previously arranged two poignant candlelit walks for bereaved parents, in Clare Country Park.
Natalie first spoke to EACH about bereavement support in October 2023.
