Brianna Crane’s story is one of unexpected joy, heartbreaking loss, and inspiring resilience. As a mother of two girls, Brianna and her husband Ben decided to try for a third child, hoping for a boy to complete their family. Their prayers were answered when they learned they were expecting Micah, a little boy who would become the focus of their dreams and hopes.
The Anticipation and Loss
Throughout her pregnancy, Brianna and her family excitedly prepared for Micah’s arrival. However, at 38 weeks, their world was shattered when they learned Micah had passed away in utero. The following hours and days were a whirlwind of emotions and decisions as Brianna and Ben navigated the unimaginable task of delivering and saying goodbye to their son.
Facing Grief as a Family
One of Brianna’s biggest concerns was how this loss would affect her two daughters and her marriage. With incredible strength and foresight, she and Ben made thoughtful decisions about how to tell their girls and how to honor Micah’s memory as a family.
The girls’ reactions to the loss were as different as their personalities. The older daughter, more reserved and anxious, struggled with not having seen Micah and worried about facing her peers at school. The younger daughter, more open and expressive, talks about Micah frequently and has incorporated his memory into her play.
Brianna and Ben’s marriage faced challenges as they grieved differently, but their commitment to open communication and eventually seeking therapy has strengthened their bond.
Honoring Micah’s Memory
The Crane family has found beautiful ways to keep Micah’s memory alive:
- Creating a playlist of songs that remind them of Micah
- Turning Micah’s nursery into a playroom where their youngest can play with baby dolls in his crib
- Holding a “Heavenly Celebration” for Micah’s first birthday, complete with a butterfly release and ice cream
- Openly talking about Micah and incorporating his memory into their daily lives
Support Systems and Silver Linings
Throughout their journey, the Cranes have been blessed with incredible support:
- Renee, their midwife, who went above and beyond to support them through the loss
- Mrs. Stevens, their oldest daughter’s teacher, who helped her navigate her grief at school
- Their pastor and church community, who helped them plan Micah’s celebration
- Family and friends who have stood by them through the darkest times
Lessons Learned
Brianna’s experience has taught her the importance of letting go of control and learning to ride the waves of grief. She emphasizes the unpredictability of emotions and the need to “pick your boots on and just buck up and dive through it.”
Looking Forward
While Brianna and Ben aren’t currently planning on having more biological children, they’re considering foster care in the future. For now, they’re focused on healing as a family and keeping Micah’s memory alive in their own unique ways.
Brianna’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of a mother’s love. Through their openness and vulnerability, the Crane family is not only honoring Micah’s memory but also providing hope and inspiration to others facing similar losses.
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.
