We understand that writing about your pregnancy or baby loss story is deeply personal and only you will know what you want to share.
However, we also recognise that sharing your story may feel overwhelming so we’ve come up with some tips that we hope will gently support you as you think about what you might like to include.
While you’re thinking and writing about how pregnancy or baby loss has touched you please remember that we are here for you if you need to reach out for support.
Begin with whatever feels right for you
It might be the moment you found out you were pregnant. It could be a memory or a feeling, or why you’re choosing to share your story about your baby or babies now.
Write from your heart
In honour of your baby but only share what feels comfortable. You don't have to share everything; you can keep some things private if you prefer.
Consider details
Sometimes the smallest details can be very powerful and can help others to understand what that moment was like for you. Perhaps there are particular thoughts, objects, sounds, smells or images of a place that have stayed with you? These can all help to express what makes your story personal and unique to you.
If you mention other people, we encourage you to let them know
It's important that they have consented to sharing their part in your story before you share it with us. Please don't include the name of doctors, midwives or other healthcare professionals involved in your care.
Share your emotions honestly
This can help you to feel seen, understood and less alone and your emotions may resonate with other people reading your story.
We'd love to hear how Sands support made a difference
If Sands supported you or someone you know following loss, we’d love to hear about how this made a difference.
Stop your story wherever feels right
We understand it can feel difficult to know how to end your story, so please stop wherever feels right. This might be with reflection, gratitude, hope, or remembrance or simply, where you feel it naturally comes to a close.
Aim for around 500 words
But don't worry if your story is shorter. What matters most is focusing on what feels right and is most important for you.
Sands' Real Stories editing policy
Whilst we aim to keep your story as you’ve written it in your words, we may occasionally make small changes, for example to remove details that someone else might not have consented to. If we make any changes, these will be made with care and respect, and we will never change anything that alters the truth of your story. We will also always get in touch with you if we need to clarify anything you’ve shared.
Photos or other memories of your baby
If you would like to share photos or other memories of your baby, such as a poem you have written, we would love to receive these.
You can upload up to 5 files (up to 60 MB) within our story form. If you have larger photos or media you would like to share, please send these to RealStories@sands.org.uk and label your photos or media files with your and/or your baby or babies' names.
If you have any questions or would like any support with sharing your story, please email RealStories@sands.org.uk.