On May 3, 2008, co-founders and bereaved moms, Debra Reagan and Katie Helms, brought together eight grieving moms for a Mothers’ Brunch. Experiencing a bond with the mothers, Debra and Katie agreed there was a need in the grieving community. It was their vision to create a safe and supportive “listening” environment where bereaved moms from all walks of life could come together and share their grief journey.
Listening Hearts was formed from those beginnings to ensure no mother would have to travel her grief journey alone. Steps to achieve this vision were:
- Listen with an open heart without judging.
- Acknowledge the loss.
- Respect each unique journey.
- Bear witness to each mom’s feelings.
- Offer hope for the future.
- Honor the memory of each child.
- Educate others regarding a mom’s ongoing grieving process.
Next, a logo was developed: a stylized ear in an uneven heart, symbolizing the way our hearts and lives feel uneven after the death of our child. We gather to listen not only with our ears, but also with our hearts.
That listening environment continues today, as we gather in three locations in East Tennessee. We are united in our loss because grief knows no boundaries. We do not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, handicapping condition, age, or any other basis. We are not affiliated with any political organization, particular religion, or belief system. All bereaved mothers are welcome and all view points are respected.