Grief Coach Dr. Kameika Hinson always wanted to be a mother. However, her motherhood dreams were halted when she was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). In 2017, Kameika became pregnant before losing her baby to a miscarriage. Although heartbroken, her calling from God to help others became clear. A highly driven woman who was born to break barriers, she proves that when powered by purpose, women are unstoppable.
As the CEO of Grief Release Publishing Inc., Dr. Kameika teaches men and women how to properly grieve and heal through writing because her purpose is to help change the stigma that is centered around grief and mental health.
Dr. Kameika is also the author of “I Lost My Baby and Now It’s Time to Find My Mind”. Today she personifies what it means to ascend above adversity while inspiring others to do the same.
Congratulations on being a TedX University South Africa speaker. What was this experience like for you?
Dr. Kameika: This experience for me is almost unexplainable. Never in a million years would I have ever thought that this would be my life. That was the very first time that I had ever been on a physical stage and I got up there and nailed it. I was nervous beyond words but I was so proud of myself for even being interested in the opportunity. I faced so many obstacles just getting to South Africa. I had to have an emergency surgery right before the trip and funds were tight. My short-term disability check had not come when I was scheduled to fly out and I literally left the country with $200 to my name but when I got up there and delivered my speech, it was all worth it. I wouldn’t change a thing about my experience.
Please tell us about the Beyond The Book Virtual Conference and your involvement.
Dr. Kameika: The Beyond The Book Virtual Conference was a conference for the publishers of the Elite Publishers Group to give future authors strategies on how to get their books from ideas to published. I was honored to be the Keynote Speaker for the conference and I also did two workshops. The conference was an amazing experience for me because it was the first time that I spoke from a publishing standpoint. It also helped me to better craft my message as a publisher. So not only did I help them by giving them strategies, they helped me to better craft my keynote speech for the next conference.
What has been some feedback so far from your published book, “I Lost My Baby and Now It’s Time to Find My Mind”?
Dr. Kameika: A majority of the feedback has been positive because the book was needed. I’m constantly being congratulated for my bravery in putting a book of this nature in the world. Grief is a complex and personal experience, and it can be helpful for individuals to find resources and support to help them navigate through their grief. Here is a testimonial that I received:
“I know that grieving is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and courage. Dr Kameika stated, “People should not put grief on a timetable.” I can so vividly recall my father’s preaching, singing, and teaching when I hear certain words in a song. Dr. Kameika, after reading your book, I have learned how to own my emotions and say, Brenda, it’s ok to not be ok for that moment. This book is an inspiration, and easy read for people who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Thank you for sharing your story with the world! ~Lady Brenda Thomas”
During the month of May, we celebrate Mother’s Day. Are there any projects and endeavors you’re working on to assist grieving mothers?
Dr. Kameika: I am still working on launching my collaboration book project. I have had some minor setbacks with the project but I’m determined to launch this project. Even if I have to eat a majority of the cost, I’m going to make this happen because I know that everything that I’ve been through leading up to the project has confirmed that this project with be great and it is ordained by God. So if there are any women who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, please go to www.journeyofhealingbook.com and let’s heal while we write.
What went into making the grief release checklist that you provide those who you service?
Dr. Kameika: Creating a checklist for grief involves careful consideration of the various emotions and experiences that a person may go through during the grieving process. So I basically just meditated on some of the steps that I took to release my grief and put it into a checklist. I also took some of the more common things that I noticed in my clients and included them as well.
Many women wonder if their miscarriage was their fault. What do you say to women who have expressed these feelings to you as their grief coach?
Dr. Kameika: I see this way too often in my clients. I have also had to deal the feelings of guilt after I had my miscarriage so this feeling of guilt is real. First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge and validate their feelings of guilt and sadness. I let them know that what they are experiencing is a natural and normal reaction to a very difficult and traumatic event.
It’s also important to remind them that miscarriages are very common and are usually not caused by anything that they did or did not do. The vast majority of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, which are beyond anyone’s control.
I also offer my support as a grief coach and I also encourage them to seek professional help if they need it. There are many resources available, such as support groups and therapists, who can provide emotional support and help them work through their feelings of guilt and grief.
Ultimately, the most important thing you can do is be there for them, listen to them, and let them know that they are not alone in their pain.
What positive affirmations do you give to yourself that continue to get you through your own grief?
Dr. Kameika: Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by grief. Here are some positive affirmations that may help someone who is grieving:
- I am allowed to feel my emotions and take the time I need to heal.
- My loved one’s memory will always live on in my heart and in the memories of those who knew them.
- It’s okay to ask for help and support during this difficult time.
- I am strong enough to get through this and will come out on the other side even stronger.
- I am surrounded by love and support, even in the midst of my pain.
- My loved one would want me to find joy and happiness again, and I will honor their memory by doing so.
- I will cherish the time I had with my loved one and hold onto the good memories we shared.
- I trust that time will help heal my pain and allow me to move forward.
- My loved one’s passing does not diminish the love and connection we shared.
- I will find meaning and purpose in my life, even in the wake of this loss.
Remember that everyone grieves differently and at their own pace. There is no right or wrong way to grieve and it’s important to be kind to yourself during this process.
Follow on Social Media:
Facebook: @iamdrkameikahinson
Instagram: @iamdrkameikahinson
LinkedIn: @iamdrkameikahinson
TikTok: @iamdrkameikahinson
