The grief we experience from loss is one of life’s most challenging experiences. But, it is made more bearable when we find ourselves surrounded by a supportive and understanding community. Monica Sholar Anderson, founder of Remembering Cherubs, has created such a community – one that nurtures, uplifts, and honours families who have experienced the heartbreak of pregnancy or infant loss.
I had the privilege of speaking with Monica when I first learned about the incredible work she does. I learned very quickly that Monica is a ray of light. Within moments, I realized how kind, generous, and inspiring she is. Her strength and wisdom are infectious, and she truly has a knack for helping others.
Building Hope through Loss
Monica’s story is one of resilience, empathy, and purpose. After experiencing her own devastating loss, Monica transformed her grief into a mission to support other families navigating similar pain. Remembering Cherubs is Detroit’s only non-profit organization dedicated to supporting parents after pregnancy and infant loss. From support groups to remembrance events, Monica’s efforts have touched countless lives and reminded grieving families that they are not alone. Remembering Cherubs thoughtfully curates resources and services in one place, striving to make support more accessible by removing barriers that may prevent you from finding the resources you need. Through her work, Monica has built a safe haven where families can share their stories, find comfort, and begin to heal.
The Pregnancy Loss Guidebook
There is still so much stigma associated with pregnancy and infant loss, that women often don’t know where to go for help. Through her work with Remembering Cherubs, Monica has created The Pregnancy Loss Guidebook. After a loss, you’ll want to know where to go for answers. The Pregnancy Loss Guidebook is a solid starting point. It addresses those hard, lingering questions that follow a loss - the ones we often don’t know where to turn for answers. “Do I get a birth certificate for a stillborn baby? How can my partner and I get through our grief together when we’re experiencing it so differently? How do I explain this to my little one, who was so excited to have a sibling? Am I still a mother?” With professional wisdom and the insights of parents who have walked this path before, this book offers validation, coping tools, and practical strategies to light your path toward healing.
In 2024 alone, Remembering Cherubs donated 600 Pregnancy Loss Guidebooks across partner hospitals and organizations. While I’m saddened to know how many broken hearts and stories there are behind those donations, I smile knowing that those broken hearts have a wonderful tool to help them shape a new chapter of their healing journey. Its resources like The Pregnancy Loss Guidebook that make a meaningful and lasting difference in people’s lives.
The Importance of Community Building
Grief can feel isolating, but community can be a powerful comfort. Organizations like Remembering Cherubs demonstrate the healing potential of shared experiences and mutual support. When families come together to honour their losses, they create a collective strength that uplifts everyone involved.
Community building also ensures that families know they are not alone and that there are resources available to help them navigate their journey. From bereavement counseling to memorial events, knowing where to turn for support can make all the difference. Monica’s work reminds us of the power of compassion and connection, and her efforts have inspired me to continually seek ways to better serve families through Cuddle for Keeps.
Comfort in Community
Monica’s work through Remembering Cherubs is a testament to her dedication and passion for helping the loss community. She has touched so many lives and inspired several hospitals and organizations to create positive change, break stigma surrounding pregnancy and infant loss, and support families in need.
I’m grateful to know Monica, and am reminded of the strength that comes from collaboration and the profound impact we can make when we come together. If you or someone you know is navigating the journey of pregnancy or infant loss, please know that support is available. Reach out, connect, and let the community of Remembering Cherubs provide comfort and strength.
Cuddle,
Suzanne
