Jasmine "Jaz" Sims (34), Tonie would’ve been 13 this year. Jazmyn Leigh (11), and Blu Monroe (6)
Jaz is a previous project participant. You can view her previous photo and story here.
Norfolk, VA | Goodyear, AZ
Jaz shares -
“I lost Tonie to SIDS at 7 weeks old, I’ve also had two miscarriages, and one abortion”
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
“Looking at societal standards has made me feel like I can’t measure up. I have never felt comfortable with my body or in it. My hope, having done this, is that I can embrace my #mombod for what it’s done, what it is, and what it can do. “
What was your postpartum experience?
“My pregnancy and birth with Tonie was amazing. Losing him to SIDS absolutely devastated me. I got pregnant with Jaz the week after he died and having her, I couldn’t nurse because of how bad my postpartum depression was and how quickly my milk dried up as well as how quickly I returned to work. My pregnancy with her was pretty uneventful except for the issues I had with my then husband resulting from our son’s death. During my pregnancy with Blu I dealt with a lot of depression and pain. My delivery was 10 hours and she fought the entire way. I was able to nurse her the first 12 months, working full time from home for 10 of them. A lot of my pregnancies and postpartum journeys were spent dealing with adult issues in my then marriage and with depression and anxiety as a result. I regret wasting that time with that. I want the opportunity to do it again one more time, and really revel in the blessing in doing so. “
What is your truth?
The best thing you can do for your kids is finding and loving yourself.
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
”I believe in everything this movement stands for. And I dedicate this to my mother, who did this with and for love. And didn’t stop going until she got the life and love she deserved. I want to honor her, my children and myself. “