Overcoming miscarriage, infertility & near-death experiences w/ Ashley & Mike Lemieux | Ep. 32

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/UnplannedPodcast and get on your way to being your best self.
Listen to “Healing Her” (Ashley LeMieux’s podcast):
spotify.link/JkkYg81X4Cb
Follow Ashley on Instagram:
ashleyklemieux?...
We had our friends Mike & Ashley ​⁠​⁠​join the show to talk about their experience with miscarriage, infertility and Ashley's hospitalisation from sepsis during pregnancy.
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[@xLadyHades]

Unplanned podcast is the first podcast where you’ll post with a couple i’m completely unfamiliar with and still click right away because i actually want to learn about your guests, and i know it’s gonna be good regardless

[@TheAshley9697]

Same

[@waffleman8673]

Same ❤

[@UnplannedPodcast]

So happy to hear this!!

[@UnplannedPodcast]

Be sure to let us know any other guests you'd like to see!

[@elizabethbartels1113]

​@@UnplannedPodcast I also couldnt agree more!! Every week even if I dont have a clue who they are. Just luv you guys❤

[@kodiiii]

I had my first ultrasound yesterday. Found out I'm pregnant with twins.... followed almost immediately with "I'm sorry, neither of them have a heartbeat..." I had no idea miscarriage could hurt this much. As I type this my precious babies are lifeless inside me. My body hasn't realized they're gone. I just have to wait for them to pass. This is one of the hardest things I've ever been through.

[@kendramichele1277]

💔🙏🏻I’m so sorry

[@kaitlynpowell-mf7sm]

Ah man, I'm so sorry. I'll send a prayer up for you. God loves you and your babies so much ❤️

[@dianah7181]

I’m so sorry for your loss sweet mama. Sending you love and prayers during this difficult time. From a momma who had a miscarriage at 8 weeks. Sending you a big hug your way. ❤

[@jenniferantonio6389]

I'm sorry that you have gone through this. You are so strong to be vulnerable enough to share. Thank you. God Bless you and 🙏 you

[@loredanab]

So so sorry ❤️‍🩹 I pray for you 🙏🏻

[@lily6413]

“All I wanted was Jayce” broke me. We often focus on mommas, but dads hurt just as much.

[@milkman8467]

i’d disagree. the mom is physically and emotionally altered. the dads no doubt feel emotionally wrecked but the woman is damaged far more

[@AdityaKaul-dm8fk]

​@@milkman8467 It's not a competition. Parents hurt when they lose a child. You don't have to get into an insensitive discussion on who hurts more.

[@Ptodd863]

ok but she's just saying dads hurt too

[@mirandanichols458]

Immediately I felt so understood when she said that she doesn’t know how to answer “how many kids do you have?”. We lost my 6-year-old nephew in 2020 and it’s been hard when people ask my family and I questions about my sister’s children regarding how many kids she has or what are her kids names. My sister, mom, and myself didn’t know how to answer that. Because to say “4” would raise questions when only 3 were still present… but to say “3” seemed as if we were denying Trayton and his memory. Three years later, we still struggle with that.

[@jessicahinkle8933]

After 4 miscarriages and 5 years of infertility, this episode was so healing to listen to. Thank you Matt and Abby for your sensitivity and thoughtfulness. Thank you Mike and Ashley for sharing your story with so much grace and wisdom ❤

[@MicheleWalkerWebb]

Jessica sending blessings your way. Peace be with you

[@kelseygutwein8907]

For someone who just had a miscarriage 8 weeks ago this was a really good episode. That was our first pregnancy. We went in one day and it was strong and healthy heartbeat then 2 days later they found the baby but no heartbeat. Thank you for sharing and thank you Matt and Abby for making it a safe space. The world doesn’t talk about miscarriage enough and it is so sad how common it is. Still going through grief but we did name it as that helped with the grief. I am a mom to an Angel baby. I still don’t know how to answer “How many kids do you have?” Like I have one in heaven. One day God will provide us with a rainbow baby. Love this podcast so much and this one I could relate to ❤

[@halinanapierala9772]

Never lose hope and faith, wish you all the best. 😊

[@Kim-uw6tk]

I'm so sorry for your loss 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@laurenskee2665]

Of course, my condolences, how are you doing? I remember being on an emotional Rollercoaster after. Please know, that even though the emotions never go away, but it does get easier.

[@kyliejones8890]

Aa

[@kfenton4154]

My husband and I just lost our first baby as well. We named him Gabriel meaning "God is my strength". Whenever someone asks me if I have children, I tell them I have one. Sometimes I'll add that he is in heaven and sometimes I don't... I honestly just enjoy talking about him and loving him through the grief by talking about him. I'll pray right now for our angel babies 💚💚💚

[@MarissaMezari]

Wow, such a good interview. I found out I was pregnant. It was a surprise so I was so nervous to become a mom. I hit my 4 month pregnancy mark and I woke up one morning and I was extremely short of breath. I couldn’t say 1 word word w/o gasping for air. My mom rushed me into the hospital and they ran a bunch of test and found out I had a pulmonary embolism. Which is a blood clot in my lung. I almost died. It was so scary. The test they needed to do were risky on my pregnancy so they wanted to check on the baby. Turns out I was carrying conjoined twins. They were connected at the thorax. Sharing a heart and one baby has no brain activity. My blood issue was getting worse and they were worried for me to go full term due to the life chances of the babies and my life. They ended up having to do a dnc. It was so hard for me. Now I can never have kids due to my blood condition it’s too risky for me. I love kids. I always dreamed of having my own. I just think my journey will be a little different than most. And that’s ok.

[@nadjavandenbroek8053]

Sending much of love to you mama ❤❤❤

[@loredanab]

Praying for you❤🙏🏻

[@Merbella]

So sorry you went through that. Praying you get to be a mom a different way if it's still in your heart 🩵🙏

[@DeVasteyAnnaize]

Oh my god. Ashley saying “future you will thank yourself for doing the hard stuff now so that you can be happy later” hit my soul and I didn’t even know I needed to hear that. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@JPAdventures123]

As someone who also had a miscarriage alone in a hospital during Covid I felt not so alone after hearing your guys story and it was for sure healing for me. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@alexandrad.8814]

I have such a hard time with this. I'm pregnant with my rainbow baby so when people ask "Is this your second?" I always answer "This is technically my third but it's my second live birth". I just don't feel okay with not mentioning my second baby.

[@alliezach6902]

That’s so sweet

[@kfenton4154]

I totally understand! I think that's perfectly normal and beautiful.

[@TheYoungBaker]

One Child in heaven, and the second child on earth! All three are loved so much by God!

[@kaylavarela7215]

Beautiful. Beautiful response.

[@kathleendonohue6322]

My husband and I got married this year and pregnant on our honeymoon and sadly also miscarried. We got pregnant immediately after and listening to this was so validating. The grief, anger, confusion, depression, the anxiety of pregnancy after loss and the desire to honor the first baby in a world of people who just don’t understand. Currently 15 weeks pregnant today and every day is a challenge like she said. So happy to hear their happy ending and praying we get one too. Thank you for this episode.

[@emiliadonoghue6770]

Wow I really felt that "I'm mother to more" when answering how many kid you have

[@tracyeehollister6836]

Love you guys! I have had 1 stillborn 2 miscarriages and 2 sons passed away at 20 yrs old and one at 24!! Loss is so horrible and grief is overwhelming!! Sending positive vibes and lots of thanks for bringing up the hard stuff

[@Vivian_2016]

I am so sorry for all ur losses ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹🙏🏼may those babies all rest in peace and May god give u the strength and patience 🩵

[@tracyeehollister6836]

@@Vivian_2016 Thank you so much for your kind words! ❤

[@mrunmayipalande562]

Omg take care of yourself ❤️you are soo strong ❤

[@michellejugao4091]

I’m so sorry for your grief and loss. ♥️

[@sterrejalou]

I'm normally a silent viewer/listener but I just wanted to let you guys know I was deeply affected by this episode - I'm so sorry that Ashley & Mike lost Jayce and how it all happened. That whole situation had to be so difficult. Props for Abbey & Matt too for making this interview such a safe space! Big hug!

[@emilyseibel5859]

Biggest hugs to them from their silent listeners 🥺🤍

[@rachelschwartz1346]

Loved Mike’s giant wave analogy and how it eventually stilled, brought you to a different place, and found peace. This episode is so touching. Thank you Mike and Ashley

[@user-rp1nn6qz6o]

i freaking loved this episode. their story is just so inspiring of rising from the ashes of whatever hell you go through. there's good on the other side

[@makalasmith]

As someone who has had two miscarriages and is now 26 weeks pregnant with our rainbow baby, I love how open she was about the experience because before I had my first miscarriage I had no idea it was such a common thing. And the anxiety that comes with being pregnant again after loss is so valid 😅

[@ivyneas8709]

I’m 25 weeks pregnant with my double rainbow too 🌈🌈 congrats

[@makalasmith]

@@ivyneas8709 congratulations!! ❤️

[@promisedjubileedaniels]

Absolutely. I guess technically all my kids are rainbow babies? My first was a very traumatic miscarriage, but we've had 6 children since, and every time I was so wary of blood.

[@carmen-kdippenaar3820]

Ashleigh has such an incredible and profound gift to connect with people on a heart-to-heart level, and both she and Mike are so incredibly emotionally intelligent and understanding. They are such lovely, deep human beings, and I just loved them as guests on your show. Matt and Abby you are so blessed to be surrounded by such a real and authentic circle of friends, and thank you for always being real and authentic too. You make such a tangible difference in my life, and so many, just in sharing your unfiltered realness and love in a world so in need of exactly that ❤

[@atchomama123]

When Mike said that there was no point in eating or having a house bc all he wanted was jayce…my heart broke. I completely relate to this feeling and feel so sorry for anyone who goes through it. Thank you for sharing such hard experiences and emotions. Such an amazing podcast with real people and real topics

[@kseniakrasnova3265]

I have been a silent follower for my whole life, but this episode touched my heart. Ashley and Mike are incredibly brave humans, who show that it is really possible to go through toughest moments and still be the best and kindest versions of themselves. Thank you Matt and Abby for introducing us to these amazing people. Spent an emotional hour listening to all of your purest thoughts!

[@sarahlittell5738]

This video is amazing. I’m about halfway and it’s so touching. I went through something similar as her, I had an undiagnosed uti that had almost gone septic. I was also 24 weeks pregnant. I felt the worst I have ever felt and I am strong when it comes to being sick but this time all I could do was lay on the couch and cry. My husband came home and saw me and knew it had to be bad for me to be crying and not moving. When I got to the hospital they told me if I would have waited much longer it would have went into my blood and could have hurt the baby. And I had had a miscarriage the year before. I was in the hospital for 4 days and I am so thankful to the Lord that I fully recovered. And now have a 5 month old.

[@UnplannedPodcast]

Wow! What a touching story. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@tocamy8224]

Did you have any symptoms of the UTI ? Or how was it missed ? Had UTI's in the past and I am also pregnant, so I am a bit worried. Thanks :3

[@sarahlittell5738]

@@tocamy8224 so to start out I have a high pain tolerance. But I mistook the UTI as a yeast infection since I have NEVER had a UTI before. I tried over the counter meds and nothing was working. It eventually came to the point where I had a high fever, body aches and terrible pain. Since it was steadily getting worse and I couldn’t function we went in and they tested my blood. I’m one of those people that will try to push through anything but my stubbornness could have hurt my baby. The best thing would be for you to go in and get tested. If you have any sign of one go to your doc or OBGYN and have them test. Better to catch it early or to have them test and it be nothing then to wait too long or to not at all. Make sure your drinking lots of water.

[@luciepavlistikova275]

As a mom who lost her son at 23+1 weeks this August, this was hard to listen and also so healing to hear.😢❤

[@Smallb55]

Hearing their story gave me chills and put tears in my eyes! I can't even imagine going through what Ashley went through, but to have to do it alone... breaks my heart. Ashley you have so much strength and I admire you for being able to overcome that.

[@Amy-oc2ui]

I truly have so much respect for this podcast. Matt and Abby; you guys do such a phenomenal job as hosts also. Mike and Ashley have done a beautiful job of turning heartbreak into a bittersweet beautiful testimony of resilience. Love all 4 of ya!

[@alexislauren6847]

This really blessed me. As a woman that experienced their first pregnancy as a loss and now current being pregnant, I totally agree that it’s hard to stay positive and keep the faith. All I can do is pray and do my best to stay positive through the unknown. 🙏🏽

[@aauce]

Wow, this was so good. Thank you. And you need to highlight what Mike said about mutual decision to get trough things together 💛

[@g.sowmya2678]

When Ashley was validating Abby... I literally cried how nice of this woman's inclusivity

[@kristenmattull885]

I’m so glad that they individually talked to you guys at the end woman to woman, man-to-man. I think you guys really needed that and every single word they said is so true,you guys are amazing.

[@haileykerns9055]

I’m so sorry this happened to you guys!!! I lost my first born son Grayson at 19 years old around 25/27 weeks into my pregnancy due to a super rare condition my placenta tore and blood clotted… it took me 2 years to push through my body image and depression!! Getting a puppy 2 years later seriously helped me a lot!!! Fast forward 5 years later I am 32 weeks pregnant with our second son Weston super healthy so far, I can’t wait for him to come into the world so I can physically check on him myself!! When people ask me if this is my first it’s a super hard question to answer I hesitate and say kind of yeah.. it’s not easy and it takes time so everyone please give yourself the time you need to heal!!!

[@cyndicopeland4113]

This podcast was so so sweet omg. Mike and Ashley’s story was so moving and inspiring and them giving that “big brother and big sister” advice and encouragement at the end is so awesome. I hope and pray I can be that for someone else.

[@tori.leigh.giles18]

I also experienced a miscarriage, and getting pregnant again afterwards is the most intense feeling. You are all such beautiful people, and so open and vulnerable and I appreciate it SO much!

[@emilybrown9437]

This podcast was so beautiful, vulnerable and something I needed to hear. While in the grind of 3 kids it’s nice to hear other parents talk about the beauty’s of it and the changes you go through as husband and wife. All amazing conversations that are so relatable ❤️

[@kristinraeee]

I’ve had multiple miscarriages and it’s such a lonely, heartbreaking and isolating experience. This podcast made me cry and smile. For anyone who is struggling with fertility and loss, you are not alone.

[@allisonstanfield63]

This was so healing for me. I had a horrible miscarriage and spent 20 years in addition trying not to feel. What she said about grief being a teacher and learning from it brought tears to my eyes.

[@ninerjen1]

It is 1:30 in the morning and I had to watch this whole podcast. I get so hooked on everyone of them. Thanks to Ashley and Mike for being so open about their experience. There were some things that were said that are very thought provoking and I appreciate that. And, Matt and Abby, you always ask the best questions to your guests and keep things interesting. I love listening to the UnPlanned Podcast. Oh, and thanks to THe Lemieux family for getting you to Arizona. I will never run into any of you, I am sure, but knowing we are all here in this great place is heart warming. Ha.

[@brittneyemerson2079]

I found Matt to be talking over/interrupting their guests more often on this podcast than previous. When you ask questions that are likely to receive an emotionally charged response it is helpful to let them speak and then allow a moment of pause so you can best determine if they are finished with their thought (they may be collecting themselves emotionally as they continue their story) before interjecting the next question. As a listener it is easier to hear everyone’s POV when one person is speaking at a time. Keep up the great work, I enjoy your interviews!

[@nmkol13]

This was such a touching episode. Hearing their story about their loss broke my heart. And hearing how highly they speak of each other- so sweet. Amazing amazing episode!!!

[@theresa9925]

Loved this! Twenty-six years ago, I lost my only son to cancer. Ashley, I can so relate to a lot of what your said. It took time & work...but I did get where I found a safe place for my grief. I have been involved with Compassionate Friends since almost the beginning. We have a girl whose baby girl only lived 3 days. I often thought...how special it was that she came & still comes to our annual Candlelight service to honor her daughter. Sharing your grief with others can help you and others. Plus...it keeps our angel's spirit alive. I feel I know all the angels whose parents I have met. Sending you, Mike & your angel Jace hugs & love. Theresa from Florida 💙💕

[@carmensamone]

YOOOO, I FEEL WHAT ASHLEY SAID TO MY LITERAL CORE. 😭😭😭 Being pregnant after infertility has given me such anxiety!!! And I don't think it's going to go away until baby is here, and I'm only six weeks. 😩 I don't mind the discomfort because I know it means baby is here and I'm still pregnant. But the 20% of the time when I feel completely fine, I start to get anxious. It's an anxiety I don't wish for anyone to have, especially because pregnancy is such a blessing to experience...but gets tainted by anxious thoughts. 😖 I pray everyday thanking God for getting pregnant after infertility, and every time I pray I ask him to keep us both healthy. You kind of think all the trauma goes away after you get the pregnancy you desired.....until you're pregnant and you're like man I have to make sure my body keeps this baby healthy and to term.

[@alexislauren6847]

I’m here with you in the same situation. Praying both our babies will make it. Let’s keep praying and hoping for the best 🙏🏽🌈

[@carmensamone]

@@alexislauren6847 yessss!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@alex_danceskpop]

I remembering following Ashley and Mike's journey through all this and this episode was...beautifully raw, honest, and thought-provoking. I don't think I've cried so much during an episode. Thank you for creating such a safe space for this conversation.

[@acordova5794]

i've never really liked podcasts, until i found yours. i've binge watched every episode, and still get super stoked when a new episode comes out. love you guys, i'll forever be your fan!

[@annawade6268]

One of my favorite episodes so far. Thanks so much for your story and such a passionate conversation!

[@snehalgupta8703]

It was such a beautiful episode. The words, the advice that Mike and Ashley gave were really good. ✨️ thanku for this episode.

[@Doubledb]

Thanks so much for this podcast. I lost my dad a little over a year ago (Summer 2022) and have gone through sickness since last February (2023). I am just now beginning to heal in the last two months. It is nice to hear people who have been through so much speaking from the other side, it brings hope and light to ones who are in the middle of dark times. I have lived away from family for ten years, my goal is to visit them once I heal and then work on moving back to my home state. If anything grief and sickness and Covid has taught me how incredibly important and value family and friends are to ones physical, emotion and spiritual health. Even if I have to catch these some time after they come out I always love listening!

[@hummingbirdenthusiast1481]

Wow thank you for sharing these wonderful people with us. Suffering from multiple autoimmune diseases I have been septic 3 times. Also picturing my life as a “sick” person I’ve lost all my friends, career, and the mother and wife I’ve always been and thought I’d be. My body is broken, I have a tracheostomy from being ventilated and dx process. Chronic pain takes a number. I feel hope and I can’t wait to check out their podcasts.

[@keelybishop6443]

I cannot wait every week to see your podcast. I watch while I am working and you guys bring a sense of peace to me every week. I have been a silent follower and I just wanted to let you know you bring me so much peace. You guys are the best

[@jessD26]

This video is so impactful to mothers all over because miscarriage is so common but not talked about as much due to the painful grief that comes with it. I had a life threatening miscarriage 4 months ago and somehow I got pregnant a month after. I had such a hard time being happy when I found out I was pregnant again because that experience was so fresh and I was still going through the grieving process. I can relate to this episode so much and I appreciate you both being so vulnerable. It shows that womens bodies are so unbelievably strong and we can go through anything for our kids.

[@crismalichi]

I lost my child in 2003 and the grief and thoughts of your child never stop!!! The pain is so unbearable and no matter how many other children you may have... You always cry out for the child you no longer have!!! Makes you question your faith and why or how the world could be so cruel to such a innocent soul💔

[@seanpeck4333]

I relate to this couple so so so much. I went into septic shock when I was 21 and have gone septic 2 other times after that. We also struggled with infertility due to the effects of my sepsis. I LOVED this episode

[@laurencarpenter7097]

Thank you for this episode. I’ve had 2 miscarriages this year and am taking a short break from trying again for my mental and emotional health. Hearing this story was hard but comforting. It gives me hope. I can’t imagine the pain and I am so sorry for this beautiful resiliently strong couple.

[@sierrabregman]

Incredible episode. Matt and Abby are amazing, gentle, thoughtful hosts and Mike and Ashley do a wonderful job describing their story and providing wisdom from their experiences. Mike said it best about how eloquent and inspiring Ashley’s way with words is, and he shares the same gift. I went through a miscarriage recently and sobbed through the last half of the episode. Thank you for sharing your story and providing words of solace and encouragement to those struggling. It was very cathartic and healing. All the best to both families ❤️

[@nwanyibuifeobiako162]

This is another fantastic episode! I love Mike and Ashley's transparency and resilience - may God continue to bless you all❤️

[@meganpepper787]

This podcast was so good. Thank you Ashley for sharing your story. It was like you were my daughter and I cried through the whole thing. I'm so sorry for your loss of your baby boy. I can't imagine being alone during that loss. Bless your heart.

[@jewelswaterhouse5992]

Lost my baby in 2021. I was 33 weeks pregnant and in the hospital with covid over a week when I lost him. After I was there another month or so. This episode was hard to watch but also assuring I’m not alone. I now have my rainbow baby who just turned 8months and I always say I have 2 sons.

[@hollyharmon2408]

This right it is why I love you guys. The fact that you guys can tell a story with such compassion and grace. You guys have the best family and when I start my family I want to be just like you guys. This podcast is the first thing I look for and I listen to it all the time. It makes my day watching your videos and listening to the podcast so I thank you guys for being you. And thank you mike and Ashley for the story it truly is so inspiring and raw and I wish all of you guys nothing but happiness in life!

[@angelriddle8184]

Thank you for creating this space on the internet that you have. Shared stories and connections are long lasting.

[@toriduncan]

I absolutely loved this episode! I just experienced a miscarriage at only 6 weeks a month ago now, and I cried my heart out because it was my first pregnancy, we were so excited and we literally found out and lost the baby in the same week. To have such a blessing come my way and then have it ripped away in the snap of a finger was hard. I really related to when you guys talked about the feeling of not only losing the baby but everything that could have been and the innocence that’s lost with that baby and just all the hopes and dreams that started to flood our minds when we saw those two lines and the “yes+”. Thankfully I have the most amazing partner by my side and he was so loving and caring. I still really haven’t told anyone but close family because it feels so personal but you all are just so inspirational in how you navigated your grief. It makes me feel like things do get better and it will be okay. Sending you all the love and happiness. You are all amazing!!!❤

[@maram.1061]

I am really sorry for your loss. I experienced the same heartbreak just three weeks ago. We've tried for two years and were so happy when IT said yes on the test. I will never forget our baby in heaven and the grief is real. Stay strong, your rainbow baby will come and its gonna be so loved.

[@toriduncan]

@@maram.1061 SO loved! Thank you for your kind words!! Praying for you!

[@melissalewis7173]

I’ve been following for a while. Love you guys and the real life topics you bring to your podcast! This episode might be my favorite. Such vulnerability and Ashley is exactly what the world needs to show people hope. A beautiful friendship of beautiful people! Loved this one ❤

[@bangervlogs8751]

At 16 weeks pregnant exactly to the day I don’t have the heart to finish this episode but I’m sending you all so much love 💕

[@promisedjubileedaniels]

As a doula, coming from a medical family, it makes me FURIOUS to hear stories of mom's having to go through these traumatic events alone because of protocol. What a despicable thing to do to a person. I feel like no one should be forced to be alone during a traumatic medical event.

[@annesnyder3070]

Especially because that was technically a death, in this instance. That should have allowed at minimum one support partner, let alone the baby's father.

[@promisedjubileedaniels]

@@annesnyder3070 absolutely.

[@opinionbytriz]

Exactly. It causes more stress. I would be devastated

[@SarahAnthonyNarouski]

I really enjoyed this one! I’ve never heard of Ashley and Mike but I can relate to their story to an extent and I have to say Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your past experiences with us! Again Thanks Matt and Abby for another great podcast! ❤

[@marielyschambraud5368]

It’s one time where I loved an invited couple as much as Matt and Abby ! Such a moving episode

[@sheilaferrell156]

I have never seen these two on social media before but they are amazing! I have had goose bumps and tears listening to this podcast. I will definitely look for them after this. Great job Matt and Abby🥰

[@historybudd]

I literally just had a miscarriage 6 weeks ago, and this was so good to listen to. Especially with their perspectives of grief, and how it’s not just me as the wife who is struggling but my husband is struggling to, and that’s ok. Ugh such a good episode!

[@myahmassanisso8677]

Your podcast is the only one I’ll listen to regardless of the topic it’s always so good to watch ❤

[@teresagabriela1794]

Amazing story of grief turned into hope ❤ I have such a long story of my infertility, miscarriage and miracle children. I always thank God and when I see them everyday I am just amazed 🙏🏼 I can relate so much with this couple. I am on my 5th pregnancy and doctors are still amazed that my children that survived miscarriage made it to full term. I'm currently 10 weeks pregnant with my 5th baby and I have to get progesterone shots as well 2 times a week and it's spiritual battle and it takes an emotional toll on you and your marriage. This time around our marriage has become stronger the moment we knew a new miracle was coming 🙏🏼 God continue to bless your family and I so enjoy your podcast 😊

[@tracycoetzer]

I love You Guys! Thank You for always being real on social media. This was my first time seeing Mike and Ashley and they seem so genuine and I love that about them! This Podcast is the highlight of my week!!!!

[@eatwithaishwarya]

This whole episode felt so therapeutic.. & relatable in so many ways ♥️

[@megs.9915]

I'm going through an early miscarriage right now, so this one really hits home. Ashley and Mike are so wise and I appreciated all their insights tremendously.

[@katrinamarie6790]

I've had two miscarriages this year and found out I have a clotting disorder that is causing them. It's so hard thinking about the fact that I AM a mom, but my two babies are up in heaven. My two babies that could have been here if I had known about my condition. It's heartbreaking and, as Mike mentioned, very much makes you wonder what the meaning of life is after losing such a precious innocent soul. Mike and Ashley's insight and strength in telling their story is palpable, and Ashley is so right about the community and connection you can build with others who have also lost and understand how you're feeling. I love her advice at the end. It's exactly what I am trying to do. Find the joy I do have in life, and do the things that make me get up and live. A daily latte I make at home is a huge part of that lol :) Loved the episode. Best one yet!

[@WAMama84]

Pregnancy after a loss is such a mix of emotions, terror, joy, anxiety, exhaustion. People who haven't had a MC are so lucky to experience pregnancy untainted by the previous loss. But also, it's an amazing experience because you KNOW how quickly it can be taken away.

[@Blue-dg8vb]

I have been a long time follower of Ashley, since prior to her pregnancy with Jayce. Thank you for your vulnerability, sharing your heart, and feelings on this platform. This was one of my favourite episodes ❤

[@waffleman8673]

What a heart wrenching story of the loss of a baby during the pandemic. Something no one should ever have to go through let alone all by yourself 😢❤

[@aditideshpande3050]

my FIL had sepsis , then multi organ failure and then septic shock to a point where the doctors said there's barely any chance of survival. Our family is in India (we're in the US) and 1 hospital in their city had the best new machine that does some fancy kind of dialysis (not the usual) and filters the blood and re-pumps it back and costs a ton to do it once, they had to order that and do it thrice for him and then put him on a ventilator in a coma for a week. he made it and is doing good now, miracle!!

[@amyfarmer8370]

This was so interesting and amazing ! I too had sepsis last year and am struggling with infertility after loss ! With endometriosis I just had so much love for this couple! Thank you Matt and Abby

[@valescawall2330]

What a tear jerking interview! Loved it!

[@KatyLouiseB5]

As someone who has experienced sepsis, you are one strong lady! I am extremely grateful i do not remember alot of it. I just remember thinking im waiting to die. I also had retained placenta didcovered 8 weeks after i had my daughter. However i had it removed with forceps completely awake with no pain relief. One of the worst pain ever!!! Im in the uk though x Awesome podcast thankyou all ❤

[@Lexi_mae17]

The way you were able to give each other advice was absolutely beautiful, their story is so bittersweet and I wish both couples the best in life❤

[@elisestokes6961]

Well done talking about this subject....great to hear from both mum and dad with their grief. So true after we have lost a baby or babies, we often have other people who experience loss come to us for support.

[@merlejune]

Wow, I am absolutely flashed by this episode. Thank you so much for sharing this precious conversation between you four. ❤

[@salleigh]

I don’t even know this couple but i love to watch. Teaches me so much and also makes you so aware of what’s going on with others. Everyone has their story and this one is just starting!

[@meganhuggins4513]

Just wow. I absolutely loved this podcast. So raw and emotional. I love listening to Matt and Abby because they share so much honestly and they show constantly they are human and they arent perfect but yet, they are strong enough to make it through. So much love!❤

[@sydneymoore4]

Loved this episode. We’ve been through 2 stillbirths ourselves due to rH incompatibility (I’m negative blood type and he’s positive, so my body fights off our babies 100% of the time) We lost our first baby boy at 36 weeks in 2016, had a healthy baby boy in 2018 (after lots of appointments and 11 blood transfusions) then lost a baby girl at 19 weeks in 2019 We’re so thankful for our miracle baby! I really resonated with Ashley’s words about choosing to stay positive 🤍

[@shwetaghosh6193]

Mike is genuinely such an inspiring human, and even Ashley! I loved the conversation Just shows show experienced in life they are💙

[@samanthasullivan2633]

I’m sitting here balling watching Ashley and her husband validate Abby and Matt’s feelings… life changes ppl, circumstance and trauma and we are constantly changing, your relationships with ppl you love change and that doesn’t mean it’s better or worse it’s just different and I feel like a marriage is figuring out how to make life work with each other regardless of the changes… idk I’m crying lol it’s a whole feeling and it’s beautiful. Thank you for this episode!! When Ashley speaks I immediately 🥹 she’s just one of those ppl when she speaks…

[@adamdezarae6044]

Watching/listening to this episode for a second time because it resonates with me so much in the season of life I am in. I have been trying to conceive for going on 3 years and have had two loses and Mike and Ashley have made me understand that how I feel is normal and Ashley is doing what I want to do. I want to take my storms and help others in similar situations

[@kyahhelbing1562]

I love you guys so much. I just had a baby almost 2 months ago and you guys help me so much with sharing all of y’all’s story’s. Please never stop being vulnerable and showing up the real in your life thank you guys so much Matt & Abby 💗💗

[@briannasiddons7293]

I’m currently struggling with conceiving. I’ve seen tons of doctors and heard different opinions and tried all the things, but nothing is working. I was hesitant to click on this episode because I didn’t want to trigger anything but I’m so glad I did! ❤❤

[@chelseadollar5856]

Christmas of 2019 I was septic and went into kidney failure from a dog bite. I thought I wasn’t going to make it, my husband (boyfriend at the time), thought I wasn’t going to make it either! This totally brings me back to that time and how scary it was! But through the grace of God I made a turn and lived!

[@amandaschwarz6952]

Mike made me ugly cry on the way to work when he talked about never having your old wife back, I'm 3 mo postpartum and I felt that in my soul. Thank you for such a venerable and loving podcast 🖤

[@JaquelinGrace]

Matt and Abby, thank you so much for this. I am starting a podcast (release date Jan 1) featuring mothers sharing their stories of motherhood, anywhere from adoption to miscarriage, from fostering to to saying no to abortion and choosing life, from infertility to stillborn deaths, from home schooling to missionary or military lifestyles raising kids, etc. This episode inspired me and helped me know what questions to ask and reminded me how powerful motherhood is. I would like to get Ashley and Mike on my podcast if they are willing. I am not an influencer by any means but my hope and prayer is to reach as many people as possible with these stories, because the world needs to hear it. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving so many special people a platform to share their powerful stories.

[@samruetman3427]

58:50 loved what Mike said at this point. FTM with twins on the way and his words were so touching to listen to

[@zoekelly-walsh3985]

this was so touching they were so brave for being willing to share their story❤

[@laurenskee2665]

The hardest part about miscarriage for me, no one talks about it. I never knew how common they are. Everyone hides it, and I understand that it isn't a pleasant conversation, but talking about it made me feel better. It's also such a Rollercoaster of emotions.

[@jodil1209]

This was a really good podcast!! I can relate to your guests. I completely understand the feelings after you lose your baby. We had our first daughter with no issues, and then lost 3 after her. The second one, I had pain like I never had. Thankfully, my husband decided to actually call my doctor. I got sent to the hospital, and the pain only lasted a few more minutes until they gave me something when I got there. Because of having those three miscarriages, I had an extremely difficult time enjoying my pregnancy with our second daughter. I had multiple scares, like spotting and in my mind I didn't think she was kicking around as much, ect. It lasted even when we brought her home for a couple of months. I was so fearful that something was going to happen to her, and I took a little extra time to bond with her. Obviously, I loved her beyond words. I rarely could sleep because I had her baby monitor at my ear, and I couldn't stop listening to it when she was sleeping, just in case, something would happen. Then 9/11 happened when she was literally 1 week old. I had to go an an antidepressant/anti anxiety. Thankfully it helped so much. I am so happy that they have their baby now. ❤

[@erinbeltran1820]

This is EXCELLENT for all parents! Thank you.

[@lily6413]

Another wonderful episode. Congratulations and thank you!

[@emilychant3327]

Thank you Ashley and Mike for sharing such a sensitive life experience. Hugs and prayers to you both.

[@sarahellebailey]

😭 this episode helped me a lot. I struggled with infertility for 6 years, 2 miscarriages and now have a 9 month old daughter through IVF and that pregnancy was absolutely terrifying from beginning til end. I remember everyday waking up and wondering if that would be the day I would lose her. Even during labour I was terrified of her being born sleeping or something happening to her during the birth. The trauma is definitely real and I wish I thought to go to therapy throughout my pregnancy I feel like that would have really helped me. I feel like infertility, my losses, my pregnancy and everything else completely changed me and I’m still trying to figure out who I am now post all of that and then rebuild my marriage

[@anniemcarthur1905]

Normally a silent follower here but I just had to say this was such an amazing podcast episode. Thank you Mike and Ashley for sharing your story! My name is also Annie Rae just like their sweet baby girl. I’ve never heard of someone with that same name so that was another sweet moment of this episode! Thanks Matt and Abby for being an influence of good in this crazy world!