The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Sarah’s story began with challenges even before Jasmine’s pregnancy. Diagnosed with PCOS at 16, Sarah knew conceiving would be difficult. After multiple fertility treatments and two early losses, she felt hope when she became pregnant with Jasmine. However, that hope was soon overshadowed by the news at her 13-week ultrasound: Jasmine had a congenital diaphragmatic hernia, a rare condition that compromised her heart and lungs.
Clinging to Hope Amid Uncertainty
Despite the grim prognosis from her doctor, Sarah sought out specialists who offered a more hopeful outlook, estimating Jasmine’s survival chances at 95%. But more tests revealed an even rarer condition, mosaic trisomy 15, complicating Jasmine’s situation further. At 32 weeks, Sarah’s worst fears were realized when she noticed a decrease in Jasmine’s movements. An ultrasound confirmed that Jasmine had passed away due to fluid buildup, a condition known as hydrops.
The Pain of Regret and Learning to Cope
Reflecting on her loss, Sarah admitted, “Part of me regrets not choosing to deliver her sooner, but I have to remind myself that I did everything I could.” March, the month of both Jasmine’s passing and Sarah’s birthday, became a painful reminder marked by grief. The journey forward was filled with self-reproach, but Sarah found some comfort in knowing she had done her best under unimaginable circumstances.
Writing Through Grief and Building Community
To cope with her grief, Sarah turned to writing. Documenting Jasmine’s diagnosis and her emotions became a therapeutic outlet and connected her with others who understood her pain. This led her to support other parents navigating loss and creating resources so that no one would feel alone as she once did.
The Rainbow Skirt Project: A Symbol of Hope
One of Sarah’s most impactful contributions to the loss community has been the Rainbow Skirt Project. A colorful tulle skirt travels the world, shared among loss parents for photos that symbolize their strength and hope. This project, which started with a single skirt, has now reached 49 states and multiple countries, bringing a sense of unity and healing.
The Complex Joy of Parenting After Loss
Sarah’s journey did not end with Jasmine’s passing. She welcomed two more children—a rainbow daughter and a surprise daughter—each bringing new waves of joy and complex emotions. “There is something healing about a rainbow baby, but it doesn’t take away anything,” Sarah said. Parenting after loss meant balancing gratitude and grief, as every new moment was a reminder of what she missed with Jasmine.
Embracing Grief and Seeking Support
Sarah’s message for those on a similar path is clear: “Don’t stuff the grief down. It’s tempting to say, ‘I’m doing better,’ but even the strongest person needs support.” She encourages finding someone, whether family, friends, or a supportive community, to share the journey with. She also advises seeking positive support that helps one move forward instead of staying stuck in the cycle of grief.
Continuing Jasmine’s Legacy
Through her blog, Journey for Jasmine, and her podcast, Finding Hope After Loss, Sarah continues to share her story and offer a space for others to do the same. Her work, from community initiatives to thoughtful social media posts, reminds parents that while grief never goes away, it can be carried with grace and hope.
Find out more about Jasmine at http://www.journeyforjasmine.com and follow her on Social Media @journeyforjasmine
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.
