What People Are Saying
Contact Sherokee directly at SherokeeIlse@yahoo.com
Sherokee is motivated by inspiring others and knowing that she is making a positive difference for grieving families. She believes that all parents deserve the best care since they get no 'do-overs.' And all caregivers deserve to receive a 'Gold Standard' training* as well as to be supported in their important work.
See what parents, nurses, counselors, community leaders and others have to say about working with Sherokee, her training programs and the stories she shares.
“Sherokee Ilse, I think of you often and thank you for impacting my life <3.”
“As my Grief Mentor, you really helped me gain confidence I could go forward. The stories you tell, the guidance you offer, and the belief that I would ‘make it’ and even ‘grow’ meant the world to me. I hope others take you up on your offer to be mentored by you. —A mama of an angel
“Wow! This was a wonderful (two day) class. I loved the stories, sharing, role-playing, resources, and your teaching approach – through kindness and questions it was helpful to emulate. I learned ways to support families, the roles played by Loss Doulas/Loss Advisors and so much more about the support, questions and guidance needed by families.”
“We had Sherokee speak at our annual Beyond Sorrow Seminar. She gave a fantastic presentation and was able to connect with both healthcare workers and funeral directors. The audience responded and interacted with her in a way that we had never previously seen at our prior seminars. We highly recommend her.”
“Thank you so much for an incredible training this weekend! This was by far the best training I have attended, and I took so much valuable information with me. Your passion for this work shines through, and it was an honor to hear stories of those families you supported. I appreciate your 1:1 guidance and your interest in my work. I hope we can remain in contact as I continue to develop my follow-up program and work to improve the way our hospital provides care to our families.”
“And to add more, yesterday at our staff training I was able to incorporate some stories you told and other beautiful quotes (like looking through loves eyes and they get no do-overs). I felt these resonated with the team in a much different way. I agree to your previous statement that perspective and putting them in the shoes of a bereaved parent changed their outlook more than any statistic could. So, thank you for these stories and perspectives.” . —Audrey W., Social Worker and Bereavement Coordinator (2023)
“Wonderful! Wonderful! You have given new fresh ideas to move our program forward and have rejuvenated my energy!”
““Sherokee, It was a prolific training filled with illuminating conversations, storytelling and suggestions. As a veteran in the field of infant death, your pearls of wisdom, support and accessibility are greatly appreciated. Your warm and giving spirit has touched the lives of many. Thank you for all that you do!” ”
“Sherokee Ilse is a gifted speaker and author on the topic of pregnancy loss. Her presentations have had a profound impact on thousands of grieving parents who are struggling to rebuild their lives after experiencing the tragedy of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth, and early infant death. ”
“Sherokee is one of the best speakers and advocates for bereaved parents that I have encountered or am likely to encounter. She is warm, compassionate and extremely knowledgable in her field.”
“I am a mother who lost 2 babies in 2006. A friend gave us your book Empty Arms and it was the best grief book that I have ever read.”
“Prior to today’s workshop, I felt like our inpatient care for stillborns was really good but our care for families during miscarriage was lacking. I got so many new ideas to improve our existing program and the inspiration to create a program for families experiencing miscarriage.”
“I was given your book by a counselor in the hospital and began reading it the day of my baby’s death. I couldn’t put it down. And referred to it for every feeling and decision I had. My husband also received much comfort from it. But for me, it was something I clinged on to that let me know I wasn’t going crazy and that I was normal. ”