Matt and Abby Howard, known for their engaging podcast, “Unplanned,” have recently opened up about the emotional journey following the tragic loss of their daughter, Emerson Nicole. The couple shared this heartbreaking chapter in their lives during a poignant episode released on 4 March, where they discussed not only the loss but also the significance of the name they had chosen for their child.
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On 27 September, the Howards made the devastating announcement that Abby had suffered a miscarriage when she was approximately 17 weeks pregnant. Their Instagram post at the time conveyed the deep sorrow they felt upon learning that their baby girl’s heart was no longer beating. “At a routine pregnancy appointment, our doctor could not find a heartbeat. Shortly after, we received the news we will never forget,” they revealed, detailing the circumstances that led to their loss and highlighting the emotional turmoil of the moment.
During this latest podcast episode, Matt and Abby reflected on their experiences while also discussing lighter topics, such as their financial decision-making and their cherished moments spent with their two sons, Griffin and August. However, the mood shifted dramatically as they addressed their grief and the memories surrounding Emerson’s due date.
Abby utilised this emotional platform to reveal the origin of her daughter’s name, Emerson Nicole. She shared that she had a stillborn sister named Emily Nicole, which added profound significance to the nickname chosen for her child. “Our nurse, who was like an angel to us during delivery, also carried the name Nicole,” Abby expressed, explaining that this choice felt incredibly relevant and meaningful to their family’s story.
The couple had initially intended to keep their daughter’s name private until her birthday, seeing it as a way to honour the life they would never get to share with Emerson. However, Abby explained that keeping the name a secret felt like “hanging on to this separate life.” With the passing of what would have been Emerson’s due date, Matt and Abby found it acceptable to publicly acknowledge her name.
During the discussion, Abby expressed her discomfort with the terminology surrounding miscarriage, feeling that phrases like “pregnancy loss” failed to encapsulate the depth of their grief for a child. “I’m grieving a human. I’m grieving a baby. I’m grieving a daughter,” she stated. Such reflections highlight how significant and personal the loss remains for the family.
After their poignant commemoration of what should have been the day of Emerson’s birth on 28 February, the Howards took to Instagram once again to express their heartache. They posted a touching tribute, revealing, “In another version of today maybe we were holding you for the very first time. But that’s not today.” The accompanying image portrayed the couple gazing at a bouquet of white flowers, symbolising their enduring remembrance of their daughter.
The emotional burden of their experience continues to resonate deeply within the couple, as they navigate their grief while also embracing the joys of parenting their two sons. Their honesty in sharing such a painful chapter underscores the importance of discussing issues surrounding miscarriage and the myriad of emotions that accompany such loss.
Through their podcast and social media channels, Matt and Abby Howard have created a space for open dialogue surrounding grief, personal loss, and healing. Their commitment to honouring Emerson’s memory illustrates a profound resilience, as they aim to ensure that their daughter is remembered as a cherished part of their family.
As they continue to navigate through the complexities of grief, the Howards’ story reflects the challenges faced by many who experience similar heart-wrenching situations. By openly sharing their journey, they not only honour Emerson Nicole but also provide a sense of solidarity to others who may be facing similar heartache.