How Healthy Living Nourished a Mother After Baby Loss
Jade Millner's story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of fitness and healthy living in overcoming personal tragedy. After the devastating loss of her first two babies during pregnancy, Jade found healing and strength through physical activity, ultimately channeling her pain into her work as a fitness coach. Her journey highlights the profound connection between physical and mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care and resilience. In 2022, she launched EmpowerMe, an online fitness program aimed at helping women build strength and confidence, inspiring others to prioritize their health. Now a mother of three, Jade’s story serves as a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of immense loss, it’s possible to rediscover joy and purpose. Her experience also underscores the value of integrating fitness, mindful eating, and community support as foundations for a healthier, more balanced life.
How Fitness and Healthy Living Helped a Mother Overcome Loss and Rediscover Joy
For those seeking inspiration on living a healthier, more balanced life, the story of Jade Millner is a testament to the transformative power of physical activity and self-care. Jade, a fitness coach and mother, endured the unimaginable pain of losing her first two babies during pregnancy. Yet, through it all, she discovered solace, strength, and purpose in fitness—a journey that resonates with anyone striving to rebuild their life after hardship.
Jade, 35, and her partner Dan Whytock, also 35, were overjoyed when they discovered they were expecting their first child in 2020. However, their excitement turned to heartbreak when their son, Peter, was diagnosed with Patau’s syndrome during a routine ultrasound. This rare genetic disorder, which affects approximately one in every 4,000 births, severely disrupts normal development. Tragically, Peter passed away in the womb, and Jade underwent a painful operation to remove him.
The couple’s heartbreak deepened the following year when their second pregnancy ended in another devastating loss. Their baby, Oscar, was diagnosed with gastroschisis, a rare condition where a hole in the abdominal wall prevents proper development. After much soul-searching and consultation with specialists at the Royal London Hospital, Jade and Dan made the excruciating decision to terminate the pregnancy due to the severe complications Oscar faced.
“It was the hardest decision of our lives,” Jade shared. “You weigh everything in your head—hope versus reality—and it’s an impossible choice.”
Finding Healing Through Fitness
After experiencing such profound grief, Jade struggled to cope with the aftermath. “I couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep, and I barely left the house,” she recounted. But slowly, she returned to her work as a gym coach, channeling her pain into physical activity. For Jade, fitness became more than just a profession—it became her lifeline.
“Fitness, without a doubt, saved me,” she said. “It helped me appreciate what my body could do rather than hate it. Training became a privilege—a way to care for myself and regain strength.”
Jade’s journey highlights the profound connection between physical health and mental well-being. In Malta, where an increasing number of people are turning to fitness and healthy eating as part of a holistic lifestyle, her story serves as a reminder of how movement and self-care can transform lives.
For those navigating loss or stress, fitness can be paired with mindful eating to amplify its benefits. For example, incorporating nutrient-dense Mediterranean foods like fresh fish, olive oil, and seasonal vegetables—staples of Malta’s vibrant culinary scene—can help boost energy levels and improve mental clarity. Local restaurants specializing in health-conscious dishes, such as quinoa salads or grilled fish with lemon and herbs, offer delicious ways to nourish both body and soul.
Empowering Women Through Strength and Confidence
In 2022, Jade took her passion for fitness a step further by launching EmpowerMe, an online training program designed to help women build strength and confidence. Her mission? To support women—especially mothers—in reclaiming their power and prioritizing their health.
Jade’s story of resilience resonates deeply with Malta’s growing community of health-conscious individuals. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone looking to regain control of your life, her message is clear: taking care of your body is not just about appearance; it’s about unlocking your inner strength.
For those in Malta, integrating fitness into your routine doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym. Outdoor activities like hiking the Dingli Cliffs or taking a brisk seaside walk along the Sliema promenade can be just as rewarding. Pair these activities with a healthy meal from one of Malta’s farm-to-table restaurants for a truly restorative experience.
Rediscovering Joy and Building a Family
Jade’s journey of healing came full circle when she and Dan welcomed their son, Leo, in 2023, followed by twin daughters, Esme and Raya, earlier this year. Now a mother of three healthy children, Jade is a beacon of hope for others who have experienced loss. Her advice? “Try to see light, even when it feels impossible. Share your story and connect with others.”
For those grappling with difficult times, Malta offers a supportive environment for healing and growth. Wellness retreats, yoga studios, and health-focused cafes provide opportunities to nourish your body and mind. And for parents seeking to spend quality time with their children, Malta’s family-friendly dining options and outdoor spaces make it easier to embrace a healthier, happier lifestyle.
The Takeaway: Health as a Foundation for Resilience
Jade’s story is a powerful reminder that health is not just about physical fitness—it’s about resilience, self-love, and community. Whether you’re overcoming personal challenges or simply seeking to enhance your well-being, her journey underscores the importance of taking small, consistent steps toward a healthier life.
For more inspiration, you can explore Jade’s fitness programs at EmpowerMeHQ.com or find local resources in Malta to support your journey toward health and happiness. From nutritious meals at Malta’s best restaurants to outdoor activities that engage both body and mind, the possibilities are endless.
Remember, health isn’t just about living longer—it’s about living better. And as Jade’s story shows, even in the face of unimaginable loss, there’s always a path to rediscovering joy.