“They Never Really Leave Us” — Abbie on Grief, Healing, and Life After Losing Rowan

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Abbie shares the story of her son Rowan — a pregnancy that felt calm, grounded, and deeply connected, until everything shifted. In this episode, we talk about pregnancy loss, grief, and the identity changes that come with motherhood after loss. Abbie opens up about how Rowan shaped not only her journey as a mother, but also her work, her purpose, and the way she now moves through the world. We also talk about her rainbow baby, and what it looks like to hold both grief and joy in the same life.

We talk about:

• Experiencing an unexpected pregnancy after infertility and PCOS
• A peaceful, connected pregnancy during the quiet of COVID
• The moment everything changed and navigating pregnancy loss
• How grief reshapes identity and motherhood after loss
• The concept of “before and after” loss — and living in both
• Carrying your baby with you in your body, your work, and your life
• Finding purpose and moving into grief-informed care
• Parenting a rainbow baby while honouring an angel baby
• The ongoing nature of healing after pregnancy loss

This episode is a gentle reminder that grief and love can live side by side — and that even after loss, motherhood continues in its own sacred way.

Get to know Abbie:
Abbie is a massage therapist, nurturer, and mother currently living in Southwest Florida. Originally from rural upstate New York, she brings a deep sense of care and presence into both her work and her life. She is a mom to her daughters and her son Rowan, who passed away — an experience that has shaped her compassion, her purpose, and the way she supports others through grief and healing. Abbie believes in slowing down, finding beauty in the simple moments, and living with gentle intention.

Instagram: @bonitaspringsmassage
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Rowanwellnesscenter/

Connect with Kristin:
📍 Website: thedoulalife.ca
🌈 The Haven — Pregnancy After Loss Community Program: thedoulalife.ca/haven
🌸 Mother Like No Other — Loss Mom Community: thedoulalife.ca/mother
📸 Instagram: @the.doula.life

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