When a parent dies, we mourn. When we lose a brother, sister, or friend, we mourn perhaps more intensely. That was how it was for me when I lost my sister at 38. But when we lose a child, the emotional pain can feel unbearable. Actually, I felt that anguish in losing my sister. Our whole expectation about life comes wrapped in our ability to fathom one death (parents have aged, lived their life) and our inability to fathom another (my child had so much to live for).
But parents of stillborn children grieve, perhaps, with even more intensity. So many high hopes for their life, the plans, and the gifts of friends for their room and bassinet: tiny booties, blankets, and supply of diapers. Hopes now crushed. Three minus one means zero.
Return to Zero the Movie
Based on a true story, Return to Zero tells of a successful couple preparing for the arrival of their first child. Weeks before their due date they feel devastated to discover their baby son died in the womb.
Maggie and Aaron attempt to go on but cannot escape their postpartum grief. Through denial, escape, and alcohol, they try to cope, but when Maggie discovers Aaron’s affair with a co-worker, she decides to end their marriage.
Grief for their loss
An unexpected twist, an empathetic professional, and grief for their stillborn enable Maggie and Aaron to face their future–together.
Note: Sean Hanish, Writer/Director/Producer, RETURN TO ZERO graciously granted me permission to use pictures and synopsis for this blog. I hope you’ll reward his decision by joining me to see Return to Zero.
