Individually and Together

Supporting Both Parents After the Loss of an Infant

Certainly, there isn’t a guidebook on how to overcome loss. However, most people would agree the most devastating trauma anyone could ever suffer is the loss of an infant. Imagine the excitement of pregnancy ending in tragedy. It simply goes against the natural order of things.

Compassion and Support

Thankfully, St. Joseph Perinatal Bereavement Group is there when couples are struggling with grief, feeling permanently stuck, truly lost or completely unsure of how to move forward. The six-week group program was recently redesigned and expanded to ensure it provides compassion and support to both parents, individually and together. 

The support team includes Nicole Snow, a Licensed Practical Nurse, who is also Resolve Through Sharing® (RTS) Bereavement Certified, as well as Shannon Osterhoudt and Eric Leader, who both hold a Master of Social Work and are also RTS Certified. 

“Men often take on the role of protector. They feel responsible for their child’s well-being,” explains Eric. “They suppress their emotions. When in reality, they’re profoundly suffering.”

Listening and Connecting 

“The group focuses on teaching couples how to cope, both individually and as partners,” shares Shannon. “When couples experience loss, sometimes all they need is to be comforted by their partner’s listening ear, but often that’s not openly expressed.” 

Nicole adds, “The group is a great place to connect with others. One of the best ways to foster healing is by sharing experiences.” 

The free, six-week support group takes place at the hospital on the second Wednesday of every month. You do not need to be a St. Joseph’s patient. Everyone is welcome, no matter how long it has been since your loss.

Group Facilitators: Nicole Snow, Shannon Osterhoudt and Eric Leader

Reach out to Nicole Snow at 603.884.3206 or nsnow@sjhnh.org to learn more.