Actor Greg Wise has shared his experiences and the profound effect that grieving for his sister Clare, who died of cancer, has had on him. Wise, who looked after his sister during her illness, stressed the importance of openness in discussing grief and the end of life. He has since become an advocate for better communication about death, challenging the societal expectations around men expressing grief. Wise’s efforts include collaboration with Marie Curie and other organisations to improve end-of-life care and bereavement support, as well as promoting education on these topics within schools.

In England, the introduction of baby loss certificates has provided many grieving parents with a sense of solace and acknowledgment of their loss. Parents like Laura and Holly have highlighted the significance of having a physical document to commemorate their lost pregnancies, viewing it not only as personal validation but also as a tool to help in discussing their experiences with others. The certificates serve a range of emotional needs for those affected, from giving an identity to the lost baby, as in Lucinda’s case, to offering closure and recognition. Despite some conflicted feelings, as exemplified by Lizie and Hannah, the consensus among those who have experienced pregnancy loss is that the certificates represent a crucial step in acknowledging and validating their grief.

Together, these stories underscore the evolving conversation around grief, loss, and the societal support structures in place to navigate these deeply personal yet universal experiences.