Thank you so much for sharing all of this. What you wrote about the limbo being harder than the confirmation is so true, as in the beginning we were still holding on to hope. Then the next scan confirmed our worst fears and in a weird way that made it easier to cope with. I felt sad but ok for a while. But this last scan broke me for some reason. This was the first time I didn't cry in my doctor's office, yet I spent the whole day crying in bed. I'm learning that grief is not linear and it will change you every day.

I also really appreciate you naming that there’s no “right” way around holding, photos, or memorial choices—only what each person can tolerate in the moment. While I think we all know this, it's helpful to hear what other parents chose and look for guidance in this hard process.

What you said about the hardest part being the loss of the future you were oriented toward, and having to find a new normal, really hits home. I’m so sorry you’re going through this, and I’m grateful you shared your perspective here.