38 | Cayse Holland Cunningham-IVF, Covid Uncertainty and Hope Journals
04/22/25 • 48 min
Cayse Holland Cunningham carries a story etched in resilience and faith. Her journey to motherhood was fraught with challenges, enduring ten years of waiting and ultimately turning to IVF to conceive. They named her baby Hope, a name that would touch many lives. Yet, at 20 weeks, Hope's life was threatened when Cayse's water broke prematurely. Rushed to the hospital, she received the diagnosis of PPROM, placing her on strict bed rest with the aim of reaching 30 weeks for a planned C-section. The onset of the Covid pandemic amplified the stress, culminating in an emergency C-section at just 26 weeks. Although Hope initially showed promise, connected to a breathing monitor, hope soon turned to heartbreak.
Cayse's narrative extends beyond this loss, overcoming divorce and unexpectantly finding love again. It's a testament to the unwavering hope she finds in Christ, a hope she now shares through Hope Journals, a ministry dedicated to providing scriptures of hope to those in need. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the possibility of finding light even in the darkest of times.
From Cayse: Hope Journals is a ministry founded after the passing of my infant daughter, Hope. In my grief, I needed a tangible reminder of God’s promises and goodness. I needed something to help me focus my eyes on Jesus. This led me to create Hope Journals, which are pocket size journals filled with handwritten Scripture.
Hope Journals can be found on Instagram, Facebook and you can order a Hope Journal here.
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Give if you feel led. All donations will go to the Julianna Grace Ministry. Click on general then the Julianna Grace Ministry.
Cayse Holland Cunningham carries a story etched in resilience and faith. Her journey to motherhood was fraught with challenges, enduring ten years of waiting and ultimately turning to IVF to conceive. They named her baby Hope, a name that would touch many lives. Yet, at 20 weeks, Hope's life was threatened when Cayse's water broke prematurely. Rushed to the hospital, she received the diagnosis of PPROM, placing her on strict bed rest with the aim of reaching 30 weeks for a planned C-section. The onset of the Covid pandemic amplified the stress, culminating in an emergency C-section at just 26 weeks. Although Hope initially showed promise, connected to a breathing monitor, hope soon turned to heartbreak.
Cayse's narrative extends beyond this loss, overcoming divorce and unexpectantly finding love again. It's a testament to the unwavering hope she finds in Christ, a hope she now shares through Hope Journals, a ministry dedicated to providing scriptures of hope to those in need. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the possibility of finding light even in the darkest of times.
From Cayse: Hope Journals is a ministry founded after the passing of my infant daughter, Hope. In my grief, I needed a tangible reminder of God’s promises and goodness. I needed something to help me focus my eyes on Jesus. This led me to create Hope Journals, which are pocket size journals filled with handwritten Scripture.
Hope Journals can be found on Instagram, Facebook and you can order a Hope Journal here.
LETS STAY CONNECTED:
Link Tree
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter
Website
Give if you feel led. All donations will go to the Julianna Grace Ministry. Click on general then the Julianna Grace Ministry.
Previous Episode
37 | Rhonda Barnes-Grandmother's Perspective on Grieving for Two
Rhonda Barnes carries a pain that no grandparent should ever know – the loss of her beloved grandson, Dominic, who passed away in her arms on July 29th, 2015. The devastation threatened to consume her, but as a mother, grandmother, and a registered nurse, Rhonda instinctively shifted into caretaker mode. A natural fixer, she desperately sought to understand the 'why' behind Dominic's passing, while simultaneously striving to be a pillar of strength for her grieving family.
In her role as a New Parent Support Program (NPSP) visitor and registered nurse, Rhonda dedicates her life to supporting families during the crucial early years of parenthood. She visits homes of expectant parents and those with children under 36 months, providing education and guidance on a wide range of topics, from the initial homecoming to the challenges of feeding solids, potty training, and discipline. Listen in as Rhonda shares how a simple, yet profound, statement from a social worker gave her the permission she needed to truly grieve.
She can be found on the Fort Bragg ACS New Parent Support Program or you can email her here: [email protected]
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Next Episode
39 | Brittany Oaks-Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep
Brittany Oaks called me last year as I was traveling to Washington, D.C. At that moment, I could hear her passion and commitment to a cause very close to her heart. We have reconnected, and she shared some incredible news. Brittany has started a new chapter for Now We Lay Me Down, focusing on stillbirth photography. Her journey in this field began with her successful photography business in Arkansas and her involvement with Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS), where she captured precious memories for grieving families.
Upon moving to Bossier City, Louisiana, Brittany didn't hesitate to establish this chapter. She recognized a significant need for a dedicated NILMDTS photographer in our area. This initiative is not just about photography; it's about providing families with a way to capture their beautiful photos of their baby. Brittany's insight into the healing power of these images reveals how crucial it is to honor and remember. Yet, she understands that this type of work is sensitive and requires a compassionate touch.
Brittany’s determination and empathy make her an incredible resource for families dealing with loss. Through her photography, she helps people process their grief while celebrating the beauty of each life. As she shares her experiences and the role of stillbirth photography, it becomes clear that this service is a vital support for those navigating the most heartbreaking moments. Listening to her talk about this work encourages a deeper understanding of the impact that these captured memories can have on families in their healing journey.
Since 2005, Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS) has gifted more than 75,000 complimentary portrait sessions (about 8,000 in the last two years) to families experiencing the loss of a baby. Through our volunteer photographers, NILMDTS has reached every state in the United States and has been present in 40 countries worldwide. (taken from the NILMDTS website)
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Give if you feel led. All donations will go to the Julianna Grace Ministry. Click on general then the Julianna Grace Ministry.
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