The loss of a child is an unimaginable tragedy that no parent should ever have to face. Yet, for Julie Shapiro, this heartbreaking experience became the catalyst for a powerful journey of healing and advocacy. In this inspiring story, we explore how Julie turned her pain into purpose, creating Aubrey’s Advocate to support other families facing similar losses.
Aubrey’s Story
Julie’s world shattered when her daughter, Aubrey, was stillborn at full term in September 2020. The experience was traumatic, compounded by insensitive hospital practices and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Julie found herself grappling with intense emotions – anger, grief, and a profound sense of loneliness.
The Birth of Aubrey’s Advocate
Julie’s healing journey began with a simple act of defiance against an unjust medical bill. This small victory sparked a realization: she could use her experience to help others. Thus, Aubrey’s Advocate was born.
What started as bill advocacy for bereaved parents has grown into a multifaceted non-profit organization:
- Financial Assistance: Helping families with medical bills and funeral expenses.
- Support Groups: Creating safe spaces for bereaved parents to connect and heal.
- Hospital Partnerships: Implementing protocols for supporting families experiencing loss.
- The Aubrey Ray Shapiro Birthing Suite: A dedicated space for families delivering babies without heartbeats.
Finding Peace and Purpose
Through her work with Aubrey’s Advocate, Julie has found a way to honor Aubrey’s memory and support other bereaved parents. She emphasizes the importance of:
- Allowing yourself to feel all emotions
- Finding ways to keep your baby’s memory alive
- Seeking support from those who understand
- Giving yourself grace during the healing process
Julie’s journey has taught her that while the pain of loss never truly disappears, it’s possible to find meaning and purpose in the aftermath of tragedy. She’s learned to compartmentalize her grief, recognizing that while being Aubrey’s mom is a significant part of her identity, it doesn’t define her entirely.
A Message of Hope
To those facing similar losses, Julie offers these words of encouragement:
“Everything ends – every bad hour, every bad day, every bad season. Remember that when you’re in it. You will not be in it forever.”
Julie’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of turning pain into purpose. Through Aubrey’s Advocate, she continues to honor her daughter’s memory while providing crucial support to other bereaved families.
For more information or support, visit Aubrey’s Advocate at aubreysadvocate.com or follow them on Instagram @aubreysadvocate.
Jennifer Senn is a certified life coach who is also a bereaved mom of twin girls born at 32 weeks. She helps stillbirth moms let go of guilt, process their grief, and figure out what’s next for their future. You can learn more about her and schedule a free support session at jennifersenn.com.
