Q&A with Heather Bradley of the Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas
Oct 11, 2024
Heather Bradley has been working as a labor doula since 1996 and is the founder of the Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas. Bradley shares details about her organization and the impact of bereavement doula support.
Q: Can you tell us about Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas and what you do?
Heather Bradley: The Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas is a nonprofit that provides support to families experiencing pregnancy loss, whether it be miscarriage, stillbirth, a life limiting diagnosis, termination for medical reasons. We offer free doulas who are experienced in perinatal bereavement, who are trained to offer compassionate care during one of the most challenging times in a family's life. We walk with them through the grief process, helping them navigate the medical system, and providing continuous support before, during, and after loss.
Q: How did you get involved with this work?
Heather Bradley: In 2016 I had a postpartum client who experienced a full-term stillbirth. Despite being in birth work for 20 years, I knew nothing about pregnancy loss at that time. I realized that we need to do better for patients. I decided to put my doula knowledge to use and incorporate bereavement care and founded the Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas.
Q: How does your organization connect with UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital?
Heather Bradley: We have a strong relationship with Magee-Womens Hospital. Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas is here to support families, but we're also there for the care providers. We have an annual program to train nurses and new doulas in what quality perinatal bereavement care looks like. Our doulas have worked closely with the staff at Magee-Womens, and we often refer families to their services for additional care and resources.
Q: What’s next for Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas?
Heather Bradley: We’re always looking to expand our reach and support more families in need. Our dream is to have a pregnancy loss center in Pittsburgh, a place where people can go after they get the diagnosis. Our #1 priority for next year is creating a fundraiser that anybody can participate in that wants to support our mission.
Q: How can the Magee community get involved?
Heather Bradley: We're always looking for volunteers and supporters. Whether through direct service, donations, or spreading the word, there are many ways to get involved. We especially welcome crafters, such as sewers, crocheters, or knitters, to help create items we provide to families. Additionally, if you've experienced a termination for medical reasons and are willing to offer peer support to others going through similar situations, we'd love to connect with you. Anyone interested can reach out through our website or find more information on our Great Nonprofits page.