Two years after losing her 12-week-old son, Hudson, Rachel Surtees is speaking out about her grief, her healing, and her determination to keep his memory alive. She recalls the devastating day when she learned her baby had passed away during a visit with his father, an event that shattered her world and left her searching for answers.
Rachel and Hudson’s father, Carl, had never been in a serious relationship, but she wanted her son to know both parents. She arranged regular visits in hopes of building a bond between them. When tragedy struck, Rachel was left heartbroken, later learning from an inquest that Hudson had died as a result of his father’s actions. Carl also passed away that same day, leaving Rachel without the chance to understand why it happened.
In the aftermath, Rachel leaned on the support of loved ones and the community. Friends and family helped her raise funds for a memorial bench overlooking the beach, where she now goes to remember Hudson. She describes her son as a joyful baby who brought light to everyone around him, especially his two older brothers. Despite her grief, she found comfort in welcoming her daughter, Georgie, in 2024 — a source of hope in her darkest time.
Today, Rachel continues to speak publicly about her journey, raising awareness around baby loss and supporting other grieving parents. She shares her story on social media, participates in Baby Loss Awareness Week, and keeps Hudson’s memory at the heart of everything she does. “He might be gone, but his spirit lives on in me and my children,” she says, determined that his short life will have lasting meaning.