Show Notes
In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Dylan, who shares the heartbreaking story of losing his own dad, followed closely by the loss of his first son, Hunter.
Dylan talks openly about the anticipation and excitement surrounding Hunter’s arrival, before receiving the unimaginable news that his baby’s heartbeat had stopped at 40 weeks and 1 day. He shares the experience of his partner giving birth to Hunter while grieving, bringing him home, and finding ways to honour his son by sharing his story and keeping his memory alive.
The conversation also explores the complex emotions that can come with a subsequent pregnancy, the different ways parents experience and process grief, and the importance of creating a shared space where loss can be acknowledged and remembered.
Dylan also talks about his campaign to raise awareness around baby loss through the Late Late Toy Show, helping to bring conversations about grief and child loss into the wider public conversation.
A raw and honest conversation about losing a father, losing a son, and finding ways to carry both losses forward.
More from Dads Don't Cry
In this episode, host Peter is joined by Nina to share the story of her son Enzo, who passed away from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Nina opens up about the morning she lost Enzo, the shock and guilt that followed, and the six-month wait for answers. She speaks honestly about grieving while living in a hub, navigating pregnancy after loss, and supporting Enzo’s older brother through the heartbreak of losing his little brother. Nina also shares the beautiful ways she keeps Enzo’s memory alive, from his colourful funeral to the special meaning behind his fox symbol and her connection with the Little Duck Foundation. Above all, this is a conversation about Enzo himself, his laugh, his personality, and the love that will always remain. This is Enzo’s story, told by the mum who will never stop carrying him in her heart. #DadsDontCry #SIDS #BabyLoss #ChildLoss
In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Niamh, who shares the story of her brother Stephen and the impact his death has had on her.
In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Ciaran, who shares the heartbreaking story of his son Louis and his own experiences of grief.
The podcast is now airing as a special series on RTÉ Radio 1, with new episodes broadcast every Wednesday at 10:00pm. Missed the live broadcast? You can catch up from around 10:45pm each Wednesday by visiting RTÉ.ie/dadsdontcry or listening on the RTÉ Radio Player. This podcast feed will continue to be home to the original Dads Don't Cry episodes, featuring honest conversations with bereaved parents, healthcare professionals and experts. If you're new here, there's a wealth of episodes waiting for you, and I'll continue to share updates here from time to time - so make sure you hit Follow to be notified. You can also keep up to date on Instagram @dadsdontcrypodcast, and if you'd like to share your thoughts or feedback, I'd love to hear from you at [email protected]. Thank you so much for your continued support. It means the world, and I hope you'll join me for the new series on RTÉ Radio 1.
After a short break, Peter returns with a solo episode to share what's been happening behind the scenes, including the exciting news of a special summer series for Dads Don't Cry. He opens up about returning to Slane Church for the christening of his daughter Réiltín, the first time back since saying goodbye to Aodhla, and reflects on how grief and joy can exist side by side. Peter also answers listener questions on some of the biggest topics facing bereaved parents: deciding whether to have another child after loss, living with the complexities of parenting a rainbow baby, feeling "okay" while grieving, the changing support of family and friends, and finding community as a bereaved parent. An honest, personal episode about carrying hope without leaving your child behind, remembering those we love, and why every grief journey is different.