Braving the Waves for Fionn – A Cold Water Dip in Solidarity

Yesterday, I had the privilege of standing shoulder to shoulder with other parents, braving the cold waves in memory of a little boy named Fionn. His family, based in Galway, organized a “Due Date Dip” on what would have been his due date, a moment to honor him and raise awareness for families who have faced similar heartbreak. Our small group gathered at the beach, united not only in our grief but in the quiet strength we find in one another.

For those of us who have experienced the unthinkable loss of a child, there are moments that can feel almost impossible to survive. Standing on that beachfront with the gentle breeze on our skin, about to enter the cold water, I felt a familiar wave of doubt. I can’t do this, I thought, just as I had on the hardest days after losing my own Son. And yet, surrounded by others who understood that feeling, I found strength. We stood together, encouraging one another, holding space for each other’s grief. With deep breaths, we took those steps forward and let the waves embrace us.

Facing the Waves – and the Healing Power of Movement

In those cold waters, there’s a clarity that can only come from embracing discomfort. The shock of the cold, the waves crashing around us, and the deep breath that fills your lungs as you dip under – it’s a moment that pulls you out of the everyday and reminds you of your own resilience.

Getting outside, especially during tough times, is one of the simplest and most powerful ways in managing your grief. I always say, movement is medicine for your soul. Taking a moment to step outside, to walk, run, or even just breathe in the fresh air, can change your entire perspective. It doesn’t have to be much. Even a brisk walk can be enough to lift your spirit, clear your mind, and reconnect you to your own strength.

If you do one thing this week, make it this: step outside. Move your body. Take a walk, no matter how short, or find a patch of sky to look up at. Sometimes, a small step is all it takes to shift your mind and find a moment of peace.

Supporting Grieving Families

Yesterday’s dip wasn’t just about facing the waves – it was about raising awareness and funds for two organizations that provide invaluable support to grieving parents: Féileacáin and The White Butterfly Foundation. These nonprofits are dedicated to ensuring that no parent faces this journey alone.

• Féileacáin offers support to anyone affected by the loss of a baby during or after pregnancy, with an extensive network across Ireland. If you or someone you know needs help, please visit feileacain.ie.

• The White Butterfly Foundation provides free or donation-based one-on-one psychological support in Northern Ireland for parents who have experienced miscarriage, baby loss, or neonatal death. For more information, visit

www.facebook.com/the.white.butterfly.foundation/

These organizations provide a compassionate network of care, helping parents find a way forward through grief. Please reach out to them if you feel that you could benefit from their support.

Would You Brave the Waves?

As I stood on that cold shore, my heart felt both heavy and full. We took those steps into the sea not just for Fionn but for every child we hold in our hearts and for each other. If you’re reading this and wondering if you could do it – if you could brave the waves – I encourage you to try. Sometimes, facing discomfort is the first step in finding clarity and peace.

Whether it’s a cold dip in the sea or just a walk in the fresh air, I hope you’ll take a moment for yourself this week. Step outside, breathe deeply, and feel the power of movement. You may find that it’s just the medicine you need.

In memory of Fionn, and in solidarity with all families who have faced loss, we are reminded of our strength – together, we can face even the strongest waves.🩵