Content note: This episode includes the story of infant loss. If you are not in a space to hear about this topic, I trust you know what to do.

From the very beginning of Natalie's second pregnancy, she felt that something was wrong. As early as the first trimester, she experienced breathing issues, swelling, and eventually severe headaches. When she brought these symptoms to her care providers, they were dismissed as simply "pregnancy."

In her second trimester, she was finally diagnosed with HELLP syndrome. To save her life, she had to deliver her baby via emergency cesarean at just 23 weeks and 6 days gestation. Her daughter, Serena Joy, survived in the NICU for five days.

In the midst of such unimaginable shock and tragedy, Natalie found peace and healing through her faith. In that hospital room, she felt the presence and peace of God, as well as deep compassion and love for others who were walking through difficult seasons.

This is only part one of Natalie's story. Tune in next week to hear part two.

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Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net

Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard

Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto