Owlet's mission is to empower parents to give care at home. Owlet Cares supports our overall mission through advocacy, charitable and research initiatives that support families and communities. We partner with nonprofits all over the world who share in our vision to reach every baby and every parent.
We also stand with and support parents who have lost children. In honor of Father’s Day, we are featuring Brandon Movitz, the founder of the Pierced Forever Foundation - a Michigan-based nonprofit that helps provide support to parents who have lost a child. In Brandon’s own words, here is his story:
Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the triumphs and challenges of fatherhood–to honor the bonds we share with our children and reflect on the significant impact they have on our lives. Fatherhood is a sacred and profound journey; one that shapes us into the men we are destined to be and grants us the incredible privilege of guiding and nurturing our children. It challenges us to become the best versions of ourselves. Yet, within the magnificent feelings of joy, life can also present unexpected challenges, testing our strength and resilience. As Father's Day approaches, I reflect on my own journey as a father, the heartbreaking loss that forever changed me, and the unwavering commitment that fuels my passion to support grieving parents.
Pierce's Story
In 2020, amidst the challenges of the global pandemic, my wife Kate and I welcomed our second son, Pierce David Movitz, into the world. Pierce was a beautiful, blue-eyed boy with a radiant smile that could brighten the darkest room. His presence brought immense happiness to our lives, and his arrival coincided with a period of unprecedented togetherness, as the pandemic allowed me to be more present for my family.
Tragically, our joy was cut short when Pierce unexpectedly passed away in his sleep at 10 weeks old. It was a devastating blow and our hearts shattered into a million pieces. Our world came tumbling down. Grief threatened to consume us as we mourned the loss of our precious baby boy.
Fatherhood: A Journey Redefined
Losing a child is an indescribable sorrow, one that has dramatically impacted the way I perceive fatherhood. Before, being a father meant nurturing, guiding, and witnessing the growth of my children. It meant cherishing the moments, big and small, and basking in the unconditional love we shared. Now, fatherhood means embracing the depth of love and loss simultaneously. It means carrying the memory of my beloved son, Pierce, in my heart, while fiercely loving and protecting my other children, Jude, Beau, and my beautiful newborn girl, Lucy.
Finding Meaning in the Midst of Sorrow
The early days without Pierce were crippling. My world was turned upside down and I feared that I would never be the man I was again. It was in the quiet moments that followed where I realized that my connection to my son could live on and the imminent changes within myself could be positive. By refusing to be consumed by despair, I drew upon my knowledge of positive psychology and embarked on a journey of healing. Through grief books, support groups, therapy and God, I discovered strength and resilience within myself.
The Pierced Forever Foundation
I was determined to find meaning in Pierce’s loss and ensure that other parents who had experienced losing a baby could receive the support they needed. Thus, the Pierced Forever Foundation was born. Through this nonprofit organization, we strive to alleviate the financial burden that accompanies the loss of a child under one year old, offering assistance with funeral expenses and providing emotional support to grieving parents.
What Motivates Me Now
My motivation stems from various sources, all fueled by a burning desire to create positive change. Bringing light to darkness, inspiring healing and resilience, fostering connection and support, and raising awareness and advocacy—these are the pillars that drive my passion and purpose.
The Power of Support
Father's Day is a time of celebration and gratitude, but for those who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child, it can be a day entangled with emotional challenges. As we honor fathers on this special day, it is essential to recognize and support those who are grieving. Simple gestures of empathy, compassion, and remembrance can offer solace to parents navigating the turbulent waters of grief, even if they have other (living) children.
Lead By Example
As parents, let us lead by example, demonstrating kindness, respect, and integrity in our words and actions. Let us instill in our children the values that will empower them to make a positive impact on the world. By feeding their passions and encouraging their dreams, we pave the way for a future filled with limitless possibilities.
On this Father's Day, let us recommit ourselves to being the best parents we can be. Embrace the beauty and challenges of parenthood with open hearts and open minds. May your journey be filled with love, growth, and the joy that comes from knowing you are making a difference in the lives of your children. Embrace this remarkable journey, for the impact you have as a parent is immeasurable and everlasting. This Father’s Day, I’ll look at my three children and find that common thread that binds them– the light in each of their eyes that is their brother Pierce and the room will once again be bright.
If you are a grieving parent in need of support, please visit the Pierced Forever Foundation’s resource page.
*The quotes, stories, and experiences included here are those of the individuals and are not representative of Owlet's views or claims about our product. Individuals were not paid and did not submit their information as part of any paid promotion by Owlet.
