From Experience: The Grief Collection

Sara shares the story of her younger brother Tommy's death from testicular cancer at 23, the exhibition Involuntary she created in its aftermath, her years as a hospice volunteer, her artist residency in the emergency department, and — more recently — grief following the death of her father. The conversation moves through death literacy, the power of witnessing, ecological grief, and how art can hold space for the hardest parts of being human. Following the interview, psychologist Emma Keen joins Bianca to unpack the conversation — covering vulnerability, the importance of language around death and dying, and why grief needs to be witnessed. Content note: this episode discusses hospice care, palliative care, death and dying. Support resources are listed below. Visit: fromexperience.co Socials: @biancaleewelsh or @fromexperience_ About Sara: Sara is a community artist, performer, and curator based in Lutruwita, Tasmania. Her work brings people together through creative experiences that are playful, responsive, and deeply human, often unfolding in places you might not expect from hospitals and schools to forests and public space. She creates environments where people of all ages and backgrounds can express themselves, working closely with communities, including young people, health workers, and artists. Her projects have spanned the Royal Hobart Hospital Emergency Department, Mona's 24 Karat Gardens and Collaborations across Tasmania's cultural and community sector. Alongside this, Sarah's practice is shaped by a deep relationship with the more than human world. She explores connection, ecological grief, and the intelligence of forests. Inviting people into experiences that hold both creativity and care. At the heart of her work is listening, making space for connection, imagination, and new ways of being together. Sara's website and projects: www.sarawright.space. Her exhibition in dedication of her brother: www.sarawright.space/involuntary About Emma: Emma Keen is a psychologist with over 16 years experience across mental health and performance psychology, supporting adults with loss, trauma, anxiety, and the demands of performance. She is particularly passionate about working in the burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma space to assist those in high impact professions to sustain career longevity and wellbeing. She also works in sport and performance psychology with athletes, teams, and multi-passionate high performers, and delivers keynotes, workshops, and in-house training across both areas. She is also an EMDR accredited consultant with EMDR Association Australia and holds additional qualifications in social work and nutrition, as well as writing books for children in her spare time. Resources: Tasmania: A Tasmanian Lifeline Acces s Mental Health Helpline Palliative Care Tasmania Care to Serve - Support for Carers National: Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636 Lifeline PH: 13 11 14 Griefline PH: 1300 845 745 The Dougy Centre for Grieving Children and Families From the Episode: Book: Top 5 Regrets of the Dying - By Bronnie Ware Book: The Space Between The Stars - By Indira Naidoo Book: The Wild Edge of Sorrow - By Francis Weller Poem - If - by Rudyard Kipling Dr. Farida Kwhaja Inscape Artists and the Inscape Project with Bec Stevens and this one Symbio Lab - Julia Adzuki Bonny Portmore - Irish Folk Song, Bonny Portmore song performed by Laura Marling About Finnish Lamenting (Itkuvirsi) Tessa Leon's artwork based on the Bonny Portmore song Sara's projects mentioned in the episode: Family Dance Project , The Living Grief Project - with Bec Tilley and more are found on her website: https://www.sarawright.space/ Gathering for Grief with Kate Brennan Styx Lament Ruth Langford https://wela.org.au/personnel/ruth-langford/ https://www.tellthetruth.com.au/ Art for Takayna - Bob Brown Foundation https://bobbrown.org.au/event/art-for-takayna/ Tommy's Funeral Song - Change by Blind Melon Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

In this conversation, Peter talks candidly about what it's like to sit with people who are dying — and their families — and why he believes our culture is so bad at talking about death. We talk about the gap between where people say they want to die and where they actually do, the reality of what caring for someone at home really involves, and why hospice care — done well — can be one of the kindest environments there is. Peter reflects on the language he's had to build for this work: choosing "distress" over "agitation," "calming" over "sedating," and death over the euphemisms so many of us reach for instead. He also opens up about his own relationship to mortality, the toll — and the strange gift — of witnessing death so often, and what he wishes everyone understood before they ever need this kind of care. This is a raw, generous conversation about presence, language, and what it really means to be person-centred when someone is dying. Bianca is then joined by Emma Keen, psychologist, burnout and trauma expert to unpack the episode. Content note: This episode discusses death and dying in a hospice or similar setting. Please take care when listening. Visit: fromexperience.co About Peter: Peter is a palliative care nurse, currently working as part of a consulting team in a public tertiary hospital. Before nursing, Peter was a hardware retailer, photo lab manager, forklift driver, apprentice, electrician, drillers offsider, petrol pumper, amongst other things. He's been a nurse for 17 years, initially, in various roles before eventually finding his way to palliative care. And as soon as he started doing this work, he knew he'd found his place. He worked in inpatient palliative care hospice for four years before starting his current position seven years ago. About Emma: Emma Keen is a psychologist with over sixteen years' experience across mental health and performance psychology, supporting adults with loss, trauma, anxiety and the demands of performance. She is particularly passionate about working in the burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma space to assist those in high-impact professions to sustain career longevity and wellbeing. She also works in sport and performance psychology with athletes, teams and multi-passionate high performers, and delivers keynotes, workshops and in-house training across both areas. She is also an EMDR accredited consultant with EMDRAA (EMDR Association Australia) and holds additional qualifications in social work and nutrition, as well as writing books for children in her spare time. Resources Tasmania: A Tasmanian Lifeline Acces s Mental Health Helpline Palliative Care Tasmania Care to Serve - Support for Carers National: Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636 Lifeline PH: 13 11 14 Griefline PH: 1300 845 745 The Dougy Centre for Grieving Children and Families Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

In this episode of From Experience: The Grief Collection , Bianca sits down with Brock Kerslake — primary school teacher, dad, husband, and former owner of the beloved Launceston walking tour business Taste Walk Talk — to talk about a loss that shaped his entire childhood. Brock's older half-sister, Britt, died in 1985 at just 12 years old, after being hit by a car near her mum's home in Launceston. Brock was six. In this deeply moving conversation, he shares what it was like to grow up as the sibling of a child who died — the confusion of being a kid processing something enormous, the different ways his parents grieved, and how his family has kept Britt's memory alive for 40 years through cemetery visits, a school award in her name, and even a tattoo. Brock also reflects on becoming a teacher at the very school Britt attended, what it's like talking to a new class of grade sixers about her every year, and the advice he'd give his six-year-old self. Bianca is then joined by Caroline Thain , occupational therapist and clinical leader in youth mental health, to unpack the episode — covering how we learn to grieve from our families, the gendered stereotypes around men and crying, supporting adolescents through grief, and why anniversaries can catch us off guard no matter how much time has passed. Content note: This episode discusses the death of a child. Please take care while listening, and come back to it another time if needed. Visit: fromexperience.co About Brock: Brock a primary school teacher, a dad, a husband, and someone whose story is deeply woven into the fabric of Northern Tasmania. Born and raised in Burnie Brock made the move to Launceston for high school and apart from some extended adventures both around Australia and overseas, including living and working in the UK and the U.S., Launceston has remained home. It's where he studied, worked, raised a family with his wife fee and built a life alongside their two kids. Gus and Bonnie. Before stepping fully into teaching, Brock also owned and ran a tourism business that many locals will fondly remember, taste, walk, talk, walking people through Launceston in a way that blended history, food, conversation, and connection. About Caroline: Caroline is an occupational therapist, witness intermediary, and clinical leader working within a national youth mental health service. She has expertise in trauma-informed practice, grief and loss, clinical governance, content development, and service improvement. Caroline has a special interest in media, communication, and participation, and is passionate about supporting young people and families through complex challenges while helping to create systems that are safe, accessible, and responsive to their needs. Caroline also brings personal lived experience of grief and loss to her work. Following the death of her stepfather during adolescence, she developed an early understanding of the profound impact that loss can have on young people and families. This experience has shaped her commitment to ensuring that conversations about grief are compassionate, honest, and grounded in hope. It has also fostered a deep appreciation for the importance of connection, support, and meaningful communication during times of adversity. Resources: Tasmania: A Tasmanian Lifeline Acces s Mental Health Helpline National: Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636 Lifeline PH: 13 11 14 Griefline PH: 1300 845 745 The Dougy Centre for Grieving Children and Families Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Bianca sits down with Diana Butler OAM — Tasmanian humanitarian, nurse, and founder of Care for Africa — to talk about losing her first son, Tom, as a newborn 40 years ago, and grieving in an era with no language or support for baby loss. Diana traces the line from that loss to founding Care for Africa, and to the moment she found her purpose standing before a Tanzanian community she describes as the reason she was put on this earth. The conversation closes with Caroline Thain, occupational therapist and trauma-informed clinical leader, joining Bianca to unpack how grief resurfaces across a lifetime, why "toxic positivity" can do more harm than good, and how to support someone who isn't ready to talk. About Diana: Diana Butler, OAM, is a Tasmanian humanitarian, whose work has changed lives far beyond our island. As the founder of Care for Africa, she has spent decades advocating for children and communities in Tanzania, turning compassion into action and building lasting pathways to education, health, and Hope. Awarded the Order of Australia medal for her service she balances her leadership of care for Africa with a clinical health career, and works as an after hours nurse manager at the Launceston General Hospital in Tasmania, bringing her health experience into her international aid work. Diana's story is one of quiet determination, deep humanity and the belief that meaningful change often begins with one person simply choosing to care. About Caroline: Caroline is an occupational therapist, witness intermediary, and clinical leader working within a national youth mental health service. She has expertise in trauma-informed practice, grief and loss, clinical governance, content development, and service improvement. She has a special interest in media, communication, and participation, and is passionate about supporting young people and families through complex challenges while helping to create systems that are safe, accessible, and responsive to their needs. Caroline also brings personal lived experience of grief and loss to her work. Following the death of her stepfather during adolescence, she developed an early understanding of the profound impact that loss can have on young people and families. This experience has shaped her commitment to ensuring that conversations about grief are compassionate, honest, and grounded in hope. It has also fostered a deep appreciation for the importance of connection, support, and meaningful communication during times of adversity. RESOURCES Tasmania: A Tasmanian Lifeline Acces s Mental Health Helpline Gidget Foundation (Located Launceston and Hobart) PH: 1300 GIDGET National: Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636 Lifeline PH: 13 11 14 Red Nose Grief and Loss Support PH: 1300 308 307 (24/7, specifically for pregnancy and infant loss) SANDS Australia (miscarriage, stillbirth, newborn death): 1300 072 637 BOOK: The Rain Queen by Katherine Scholes Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Life has gotten in the way of me being able to interview and edit episodes so the podcast will just take a very short break. Herb's 4th birthday next week too...so I'm finding life just a little harder right now. I promise I will be back very soon with other amazing stories of grief and insights in to what has worked and what hasn't for people in their journeys. Follow - @biancaleewelsh or @fromexperience_ Website: fromexperience.co Email: hello@fromexperience.co

In this poignant episode, host Bianca Welsh converses with Indira Naidoo, celebrated Australian broadcaster and author, about her journey through grief following the suicide of her sister. Bianca and Indira explore the intersection of grief, healing, and nature, discussing the therapeutic impact of gardening, the significance of journaling, and the importance of finding stillness. Indira's personal narrative provides profound insights into coping with loss and the enduring strength of familial connections. The episode also features Dr. Mai Frandsen, who delves into the psychological aspects of grief, the role of journaling, and the critical need for balance between processing emotions and daily obligations. About Indira: Indira Naidoo is one of Australia’s most respected broadcasters and authors, with a 30-year award-winning career across ABC and SBS, including Late Edition , World News , Weekend Nightlife , and currently Compass on ABC TV. She is a passionate advocate for environmental and food sustainability and is the bestselling author of The Edible Balcony and The Edible City , also designing award-winning gardens and supporting communities to grow their own food. Indira is a sought-after speaker and facilitator and an ambassador for Sydney’s Wayside Chapel. Her latest book, The Space Between the Stars: On Love, Loss and the Healing Power of Nature , shortlisted for the 2023 ABIA Nonfiction Book of the Year, had a profound impact on my own healing journey. Follow: Bianca Welsh - @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh Indira Naidoo - @dearindira Dr. Mai Frandsen - @trigpsychology or @maifrandsen Website: fromexperience.co Resources: Indira's Book - The Space Between the Stars (Murdoch Books) A Tasmanian Lifeline Acces s Mental Health Helpline Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) Tas - PH 1800 811 994 National: Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636 StandBy Support After Suicide PH: 1300 727 247 Suicide Call Back Service PH: 1300 659 467 Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

In this podcast episode host Bianca Welsh interviews her friend Dr. Pippa Dickson about the loss of her beloved dog, Art. They discuss how pet grief is often minimized, the deep connections pets can have in our lives, and the challenging emotions they experienced. Pippa shares personal stories and insights on coping mechanisms, such as finding symbolism in Greek mythology and seeking community support online. The episode also touches upon broader themes of grief, identity, and cultural treatment of emotions, with reflections from Dr. Mai Frandsen, a psychologist specializing in health behavior change. This episode highlights the importance of validating all forms of grief and finding ways to navigate through the journey of loss. About Pippa: A coveted and collectable furniture designer in her own right, Pippa Dickson has become one of the country’s strongest advocates for Australian design, aiming to advance design and designers in her hometown Tasmania, and Australia. She was the Chair of Design Tasmania, and co-chair of the National Craft Initiative, Pippa is also the founding CEO of the award winning Glenorchy Art & Sculpture Park (GASP!) – a community focused space that combines innovative architecture and art. Follow: Bianca Welsh - @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh Dr. Mai Frandsen - @trigpsychology or @maifrandsen Dr. Pippa Dickson - @pippadickson Website: fromexperience.co Resources: Beyond Blue or ph: 1300 224 636 Lifeline or ph: 13 11 14 Griefline or ph: 1300 845 745 Relationships Australia Tasmanian branch - Grief Counsellors or ph: 1300 364 277 The Emerald Podcast with Joshua Michael Schrei - Reissue: On Trauma and Vegetation Gods. Heart of a Dog Documentary by Laurie Anderson Dog Songs by Mary Oliver, a book of poems Music Credit: "Denali" by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstribe inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

In this special episode (the first one Bianca recorded almost 18 months ago!) host Bianca Welsh introduces us to her dear friend Emily Judd. They delve into Emily's poignant journey through grief following the stillbirth of her son, Jack at full term, while she was on maternity leave from work. Emily shares the harrowing experience of losing Jack, the process of healing, and her ongoing quest to navigate life after loss. They also explore the coping mechanisms, both adaptive and maladaptive, that Emily has employed and offers insights into what has and hasn’t worked in her healing journey. Psychologist Dr. Mai Frandsen joins the discussion to provide professional perspectives on the topics of dissociation, avoidance, and the importance of acknowledging grief. This episode is a profound exploration of loss, resilience, and the power of storytelling in the grieving process. ABOUT Emily: Emily is from Launceston where she lives with her three children (two living, Lydia and Adeline) and her husband Nick (pictured). She is a senior criminal lawyer at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and in the small amount of spare time she has she enjoys spending time with her family at the beach and has devoted a huge amount of time to the creation of her baby loss resources - A Little Help From Jack, a booklet with all sorts of resources for a family experiencing a stillbirth from helplines, professional resources, to books for mum, dad and kids, podcasts, memory making ideas and so much more. The guide has expanded to A Little Help From Remy, specifically for TFMR and recently A Little Help From Lily, specifically for child loss and paediatric palliative care. Emily has become a well respected and valued voice in the Stillbirth community contributing to research, advocacy and awareness. Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh @alittlehelpfromjack @maifrandsen Website: fromexperience.co | alittlehelpfromjack.com.au Resources Bears Of Hope Ph: 1300 11 4673 Red Nose Ph: 1300 308 307 Gidget Foundation Ph: 1300 851 758 Resource Companions: A Little Help From Jack, A Little Help From Remy, A Little Help From Lily Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

In this beautiful episode host Bianca Welsh speaks with Melody West about her profound experiences and reflections on the deaths of her parents. Having lost both of them to cancer, her Dad in her 20’s and her Mum in her 40’s, her experience of anticipatory grief, and how each loss altered her life and perspective over time will resonate with many who have to watch loved ones lose their battles with various cancers. Melody generously shares the ways in which she connects with both of her parents, even though they aren’t here, the supports that worked for her and also discusses the challenges which can come from caring for a loved one through their cancer battle. They discuss the concept of grief being a 'gift, and the dissonance this can sometimes bring, the perpetual nature of grief, and how one can grow around it rather than moving on from it. Dr. Mai Frandsen provides professional insights into coping mechanisms, the role of anticipatory grief, and the importance of radical acceptance. This episode offers both personal anecdotes and psychological perspectives, aiming to provide solace and understanding for those navigating their own grief journeys. ABOUT MELODY: Melody is a Launcestonian, born and bred. Who spent a fair portion of life off the island, but was drawn back and studied here. She met her partner, Nick, and has two beautiful boys and two dogs. She recently left an academic career of 20 years and has moved into a role with the Department of Health in Tasmania. Follow on instagram @biancaleewelsh or @fromexperience_ Resources: Beyond Blue or ph: 1300 224 636 Lifeline or ph: 13 11 14 Griefline or ph: 1300 845 745 Relationships Australia Tasmanian branch - Grief Counsellors or ph: 1300 364 277 32 Journal Prompts for Grieving and Loss Melody’s Book Suggestions: On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross M.D. and David Kessler Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe - Laura Lynne Jackson David Kessler - Grief.com Internal Family Systems - what is it? Internal Family Systems - Dr. Richard Schwarz (IFS founder) on the Huberman Lab Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Grief isn't just through death - it can be through the loss of something, perhaps that something is the loss of ourselves through the experience of trauma, or perhaps the safety of the world we thought we knew... In this episode host Bianca Welsh speaks with Tom Moir, a Detective Senior Constable with Tasmania Police, having joined in 2014 at the age of 19. He investigates some of Northern Tasmania's most serious drug and firearm offenders. In 2020, Tom was diagnosed with complex PTSD, severe depression and anxiety, largely as a result of repeat exposure to a range of traumatic incidences, the toll of which nearly claimed his life. Tom bravely delves into his personal journey through complex PTSD, severe depression, and anxiety, largely resultant from his profession. Tom candidly discusses his experiences with grief, trauma, and the subsequent healing process, highlighting the importance of therapies like EMDR. The discussion emphasizes the stigma around male vulnerability, the necessity of compassionate self-care, and the remarkable strength found in vulnerability. Complementing this conversation, Dr. Mai Frandsen provides a psychological perspective on trauma, grief, and various therapeutic methods. Music: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh Website: fromexperience.co Resources Tasmania: A Tasmanian Lifeline Acces s Mental Health Helpline Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) Tas - PH 1800 811 994 National: Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636 StandBy Support After Suicide PH: 1300 727 247 Suicide Call Back Service PH: 1300 659 467 Mensline Australia PH: 1300 789 978 Mental Health Families and Friends A carer network for families and friends support someone with their mental ill health, access phone support and referrals 9-5pm weekdays. EMDR - what is it? Yoga for Trauma - Hobart Yoga for Trauma - Launceston - Burnie Mental Health First Aid David Kessler - Grief.com Gabor Maté - ADHD, addiction, trauma expert Dr. Frank Anderson - IFS and trauma expert Neurofeedback - what is it?

Continuing on from Part 1, Bianca discusses the importance of understanding, connection, and finding one's purpose in the aftermath of grief. James shares his coping mechanisms, primarily through physical exertion and running, finding solace in pushing his physical limits. The episode underscores the non-linear nature of grief, emphasizing that everyone experiences and copes with loss differently. The couple also talks about supportive therapies, including counseling, massage, yoga, and maintaining strong personal connections, as they navigate through their emotions. Reflecting on the different coping strategies they used, the episode provides insights into how individuals and couples can support each other through the complex journey of grief. The conversation is enriched by the expertise of Dr. Mai Frandsen, who offers psychological perspectives on coping and healing. Music: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday (edenwilday.com) Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh Resources Through the Unexpected - information and a list of support options for parents faced with prenatal diagnosis. Pink Elephants Support Network - offers online grief support and information for miscarriage. Red Nose or SANDS offers 24/7 telephone grief support on 1300 308 307 Bears of Hope - offers grief support on 1300 11 HOPE or via email: support@bearsofhope.org.au TFMR Mamas - a resource and community for the TFMR community **All of the above have specific TFMR pages PANDA - Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia - supports the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and in their first year of parenthood - or 1300 726 306 . Lifeline - 13 11 14 Heartfelt - volunteer organisation providing professional photographers to families who have experienced the loss of a baby or child living with serious or life threatening illness. For the Dads! Red Nose service specifically for Dad’s. Love From Dad - a website and instagram account for bereaved Dads. Other things mentioned in this episode The amazing physiotherapist Michaela Muldoon who treated us with a trauma lens - Restore Physio (Launceston) Mountain Biking Experience - Blue Derby Pods Meal Train our friends setup - it’s amazing, we would get a notification of what was coming and it gave those that wanted to be a part of it the ability to see what others were cooking so we didn’t end up with a 1000 lasagnes. The Ring Theory of Grief an article from Psychology Today but also helpful to understand just from this image . Nick Cave’s Letter to a fellow griever. The Image of the hole of grief, but how we grow around it. Point to Pinnacle - the world’s toughest half marathon and the physical feat that I would say changed my life, always held in November in Hobart, Tasmania. Linden Cook impression range - the footprint ring James has and I have a necklace. Sarah and Sebastian - birthstone range , I have Herb and both our living children’s birthstone on a bracelet (conveniently both my living children are born in the same month). Breathwork: unfortunately nothing regular in Launceston, but hopefully that will change! For Hobartians - Alchemy Performance , Embodied Living , and Hobart Breathing Space . Based in Melbourne by they have an App - Breath Haus . And The Lily Flower by Priyanka Saha, she is a loss mum and has just begun healing and somatic healing through breathwork with an online guide. For a comprehensive list of other resources please see fromexperience.co . 00:00 Introduction to the Grief Collection Podcast 01:25 The Universality of Grief 02:14 Acknowledging Sensitive Topics 03:28 James's Journey Through Grief 07:47 Therapeutic Activities and Coping Mechanisms 26:57 The Role of Community and Support 31:27 Navigating Work and Social Expectations 37:37 Reflecting on Personal Changes and Acceptance 52:09 Navigating Guilt and Trauma 53:09 Protective Instincts and Coping Mechanisms 56:07 Finding Solace in Connection 01:03:20 Physical Activities as Therapy 01:12:45 Commemorating and Remembering 01:16:56 The Loneliness of Grief 01:27:56 The Healing Power of a New Life 01:33:11 Exploring Breath Work and Medium Sessions 01:35:44 The Role of Structure and Relationship in Coping 01:36:52 Introducing Dr. Mai Fransden 01:38:20 Discussing Grief and Coping Mechanisms 02:01:39 The Importance of Space and Support 02:17:02 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements

In this emotional and heartfelt premiere episode of From Experience: The Grief Collection, host Bianca Welsh shares her deeply personal story of facing grief and loss with her husband James. Bianca recounts their journey through the traumatic experience of losing their son Herbert, at 36+6 days, due to a termination for medical reason (TFMR). She details their emotional struggles, the decisions they had to make, their healing process, and the unique ways they've navigated grief together. The episode includes sensitive discussions about baby loss, mental health struggles, and the couple's emotional and painful journey towards finding some semblance of peace. Bianca also offers words of comfort and solidarity to those experiencing or curious about grief, highlighting the importance of storytelling and open conversations in healing. Music: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc. Cover Image: Eden Wilday (edenwilday.com) Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh Resources Through the Unexpected - information and a list of support options for parents faced with prenatal diagnosis. Pink Elephants Support Network - offers online grief support and information for miscarriage. Red Nose or SANDS offers 24/7 telephone grief support on 1300 308 307 Bears of Hope - offers grief support on 1300 11 HOPE or via email: support@bearsofhope.org.au **All of the above have specific TFMR pages PANDA - Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia - supports the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and in their first year of parenthood - or 1300 726 306 . Lifeline - 13 11 14 Heartfelt - volunteer organisation providing professional photographers to families who have experienced the loss of a baby or child living with serious or life threatening illness. Books The 4 books I ordered after leaving hospital: The Grief Companion by Ngaio Parr. The Baby Loss Guide by Zoe Clark-Coates. Life After Baby Loss: A Companion and Guide for Parents by Nicola Gaskin. Miles Apart by Annabel Bower (Note this is Australian!). 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:55 Why a Grief Podcast? 02:14 Acknowledging Sensitive Topics 03:18 Introducing the First Episode 04:02 Meet My Husband, James 05:14 Our Parenting Journey 05:59 Deciding to Have Another Child 08:36 The Pregnancy Journey 11:35 Discovering Complications 15:32 Facing the Diagnosis 19:48 Navigating the Unknown 24:45 The MRI and the Hard Decisions 54:25 The Final Decision 57:36 The Decision and Its Aftermath 58:51 Navigating the Psych Assessment 01:06:42 The Feticide Procedure 01:18:42 The Birth and Meeting Herb 01:34:33 Saying Goodbye and Returning Home 01:44:34 Reflections and Healing 01:48:19 Conclusion and Support

So why would I do a grief podcast and what might I add to the vast podcast world? A little bit in to my why before the release of my first episode!