Returning to Work After Stillbirth | Episode 072 with Michelle Gutierrez

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Episode 72

Returning to normalcy and routine and responsibilities can be incredibly difficult after the loss of a baby, especially the responsibility of work. Having to face co-workers and bosses and having to complete tasks and perform even the smallest of jobs can be so hard for a grieving mom. Knowing how difficult the return to work can be, I have brought 4 women on the podcast to share their personal experience of going back to work after experiencing the loss of a baby, asking them questions about the challenges they faced and what advice they would give to a mom returning work. Make sure to tune in to each of those 4 interviews, episodes 71-74.

In today’s episode I am talking with Michelle Gutierrez about her experience returning to work as an accountant just 8 weeks after losing her son Evan. Michelle shares openly about the challenges she faced upon her return as well as the very practical steps she took to help with the transition of going back to work. And even if you are not returning to work I am sure you will be able to identify with Michelle when she talks about how returning to routine and normal made her feel guilty, like she was forgetting her son when she should just be grieving him. She shares honestly about how emotional those first few weeks were and how it’s ok to just cry if you need to. She shares about why going back to work was helpful, giving hope to those in that situation as well as what she would have done differently if she could do it over, giving practical advice for those listening who are preparing to go back to work.

If you are listening as a friend or coworker of someone who has lost a baby, Michelle offers very tangible wisdom for you as well about how to love and support a grieving mama who is heading back to work, when she answers the question “what would you say to your coworkers if they were listening in?”

Michelle is tender and gracious and I think this episode will leave all grieving mamas feeling known, understood and very hopeful.

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MEET MICHELLE

I'm 31 years old. My husband and I live in California with one cat. We have been married for 5 years. All my family lives nearby and I try to see them often. I have also have a small close-knit group of friends that are always just a phone call away. My husband and I like to try new recipes for the BBQ or Instant Pot, though the recipes don't always turn out good!

Learn more about Michelle by following along via Instagram:

@missshellyd