When the Unexpected Happens: Love, Loss, and Finding Purpose

In this profoundly moving episode, we welcome Teejay and Jon, two authors who turned their personal tragedy into a powerful tool for healing. Their story began as a modern fairytale—a transatlantic online romance—but was quickly tested by the most challenging experience a couple can face: the loss of a child. They join us to share the full, raw journey of their daughter, Nadiya, and the powerful mission behind their children’s book, Clemence.

Nadiya’s life was short but fiercely loved. Diagnosed with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) and a severe complete AVSD (Atrioventricular Septal Defect), her three months were spent in an extended NICU stay. Teejay and Jon open up about the sheer exhaustion, the mental and emotional toll of the alarms and machines, and the profound isolation of making life-and-death decisions under unimaginable pressure.

This conversation is essential for anyone who has encounter Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness, or for those navigating the painful reality of life after the NICU.

Navigating Grief, Trauma, and Marriage

What happens to a marriage when two partners grieve in fundamentally different ways? Jon, an extrovert, sought normalcy, distraction, and company, while Teejay, an introvert, needed space and quiet isolation. They speak candidly about this conflict, sharing how mutual respect and professional counseling were the key foundations that ultimately saved their marriage during a time of grief.

Finally, we delve into the creation of their book, Clemence. Written to honor Nadiya’s memory, it’s a crucial resource for families, helping them talk to children about baby sibling loss. They also reveal plans for a sequel to address the unique grief of the subsequent children—often the neglected mourners—who never met their older sibling.

What We Discussed: Key Moments & Time Stamps

• 00:05:48 | Nadiya’s Diagnosis: Discussing Trisomy 21 and the severe AVSD Heart Condition.
• 00:07:07 | The NICU Reality: Coping with the three-month extended stay and constant medical crisis.
• 00:11:05 | Profound Kindness: The unexpected DoorDash order that helped them survive a crisis moment.
• 00:13:28 | Nadiya’s Spirit: Her curiosity, determination, and the “badass” personality that charmed the nurses.
• 00:22:10 | Grief in Marriage: Navigating different coping styles (Introvert vs. Extrovert) to stay together.
• 00:24:25 | What Helps? The power of presence and what NOT to say to grieving parents.
• 00:30:46 | A Continuing Legacy: Writing the sequel for Clemence to support subsequent siblings.

Connect with the Authors and Access Resources

Teejay and Jon’s Children’s Book:

You can purchase their children’s grief book, Clemence, which is a gentle tool for processing sibling loss, available on  [Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo (Canada), and all major book retailers].

Grief and Support Resources Mentioned:

• Canuck Place Children’s Hospice: An invaluable resource for children’s palliative care and family support. 
• Kids Grief Support (Jessica Correnti): Find community and compassionate resources for talking to kids about loss. 

Support the Host & Show

If this conversation brought you comfort or clarity, please consider supporting host Katie Taylor’s work:

• Join Katie Taylor’s Substack for in-depth insights from the lens of a Child Life Specialist 
• Find Child LIfe Resources at your fingertips on the SupportSpot App—a helpful tool for parents navigating hospital stays, appointments. Learn ways to advocate for your child and resources for you to access to support you along the way.
• Child Life Specialists- Join the Child Life Circle to earn PDUs and have a community that is there to support you along the way.
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Disclaimer:

The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. The host and guests are not licensed therapists or medical doctors. Always consult with your child’s qualified medical professional for advice specific to your family’s situation.