Institute of Reproductive Grief Care Hosts Transformative Annual Symposium
San Diego, CA — March 28, 2025 — The Institute of Reproductive Grief Care recently held its Annual Symposium, partnering with host the Grossmont Healthcare District while filling the District auditorium to capacity with 65 in-person and 150 virtual attendees—including healthcare professionals, community leaders, and students—for a powerful day of learning, connection, and healing. The event served as a vivid demonstration of the Institute’s mission in action: to provide education, tools, and compassionate support to those caring for individuals impacted by reproductive loss.
“The Institute is doing significantly valuable work.
We are pleased to partner with them
to provide critical reproductive grief care education to our staff,”
said Tienna Jackson, LCSW, Manager of Mental Health Services at Family Health Centers of San Diego, reflecting the sentiment that the Institute is filling a vital gap in reproductive health care.
The event’s national and San Diego-based presenters spoke on compassionate communication and evidence-based practices with a special focus on the first year after a loss. The Symposium included sessions on perinatal bereavement during the post-partum period, infertility, trauma-informed care, and partner grief—delivering new insights and actionable strategies for care providers.
Left to Right: Keri Ann Abdullah and Tienna Jackson with FHCSD awarded their Instructor Certification
Left to Right: Nadia Farjood, Grossmont Healthcare District and Michaelene Fredenburg, President/CEO, Institute of Reproductive Grief Care
“This symposium exemplifies our shared commitment
to providing compassionate care
for those affected by reproductive loss,”
said Nadia Farjood, Grossmont Healthcare District board member.
“It was an honor to support the Institute's work
in providing essential training to our community.”
Participant response was overwhelmingly positive. Evaluation scores averaged 4.85 out of 5 for every session!
“What part of the program was most useful?”
“It was overall beautiful! I loved the medically-packed information and the forum theatre.” – Doula, For the Village
“All of it. Seriously. Working in an ER, we deal with all of these components.” – RN, Scripps Mercy Health
“Learning more about the lasting trauma symptoms following infertility and loss. Also, the impact of infertility on men.” – Licensed Professional Counselor
How will you apply this information?
“I’m hoping to start a chaplain-supported bereavement program for those who have had a perinatal loss.” – Chaplain, CommonSpirit
“I am excited to go back home and start some research projects based on the discussions.” – Professor/Researcher, IUI
“Use the information learned in education sessions for my teams and create policy change for our hospital with better follow-up.” – RN, Texas Children’s Hospital
