Ashley Bourg (41 - she/her), Hadley (13), Connor (10), Cooper (8), and Hayden (4)
Kenner, Louisiana {Virtual session captured over CLOS}
Ashley shares -
“I had a miscarriage in 2005. It was a devastating experience that led to freedom from a toxic relationship.”
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
I'd love to say becoming a mother has brought a greater appreciation for my body and what it has accomplished. Unfortunately, the changes created by four pregnancies are not what society tells us is beautiful and it can really affect the already fragile mental health of a new mom.
What was your postpartum experience?
For the most part, my postpartum experience was fairly easy. All of my children were delivered via c-section and each one seemed to get easier until the last. I was forced to take things slower after the birth of our fourth child as healing took a lot longer than the others.
What is your truth that you'd pass along to your former self, or a new parent?
I would tell my younger self to ask questions. Becoming a parent doesn't immediately make you an expert. Asking questions and asking for help doesn't make you a failure.
How has your (pregnancy/birth/postpartum/parenting) been affected by COVID-19?
COVID-19 has definitely not made parenting easier. Balancing protecting my children as well as keeping life semi-normal has proven to be extremely difficult. One of my children was born with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, which presents with a myriad of symptoms, among those being congenital heart defects and immunological deficits. Keeping the fear in check as we navigated life with a new, often deadly virus has been extremely difficult. On the other hand, being able to slow down and enjoy the time we have with each other has been priceless.
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
I wanted to participate in this project because I wholeheartedly believe in the message. I want my children to see what normal, unfiltered bodies look like.