In this deeply moving episode, Louise is joined by Richard Ganjavi, who shares the heartbreaking experience of grieving the loss of his daughter, Bella, while celebrating the arrival of her twin sister Penelope (Penny).
Richard speaks with honesty and compassion about receiving the heartbreaking news at a routine 34-week scan that one of the twins had died, meeting both daughters just two days later, and navigating the impossible emotions of welcoming one baby into the world while saying goodbye to another.
He shares the precious memories made during Bella's short time with her family, the exceptional care they received from the staff at Warwick Hospital, and the incredible support provided by organisations dedicated to helping bereaved families.
Richard also talks about writing his children's book, Whispers of a Purple Butterfly, explaining how storytelling became part of his own healing journey while creating something that offers hope and comfort to other families facing baby loss.
This conversation is a powerful reminder that grief and joy can exist side by side, and that love continues long after someone dies.
In this episode we discuss:
Recommended book: Whispers of a Purple Butterfly by Richard Ganjavi –
Available from Amazon. https://bit.ly/4vUMoba
Connect with Richard
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rganjaviwriter
The Lily Mae Foundation
https://www.lilymaefoundation.org
The Skye High Foundation
https://www.theskyehighfoundation.com/
The Luca Foundation
https://thelucafoundation.org.uk/
Purple Butterfly Initiative (supporting families who lose one or more babies from a multiple pregnancy)
https://www.theskyehighfoundation.co.uk/gallery
Jasper's Rainbow – Supporting bereaved parents and families following the loss of a baby. Their resources offer comfort, practical guidance and ongoing support.
Website:https://jaspersrainbow.com/\\
Previous episode mentioned Episode 19 – Sharon Luca Hatha
Louise speaks with Sharon Luca-Hatha whose own experience of stillbirth inspired the creation of The Luca Foundation. Through her work, thousands of bereaved families have been given the precious gift of time with their babies through the provision of Cuddle Cots in maternity units across the UK.
About Richard
Richard Ganjavi is a primary school teacher, author and father. Following the loss of his daughter Bella while expecting twins, he wrote Whispers of a Purple Butterfly to help children and families navigate love, remembrance and baby loss with honesty, hope and compassion.
Please remember that you are not alone. Grief can feel incredibly isolating, but there is support available.
If this conversation has helped you, please consider following or subscribing to A Gift For Grief. Leaving a review and sharing the episode helps these important conversations reach more people who may need them.
Connect with Louise: https://www.louisebates.co.uk/
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