Susan McElroy
Founder & Executive Director
“Not every family gets a lifetime of memories, but every family deserves the chance to hold onto the ones they do have.”
I never planned to start a nonprofit.
I simply said yes to showing up for one family, and one yes turned into many.
In 2018, after a traumatic birth and a NICU stay, I was thrust into the world of grief. My daughter survived, but I was surrounded by families whose stories ended differently. I didn’t have the right words, but I had a camera.
In 2020, I took my first bereavement photo session. What began as a simple gesture became a calling. For the next four years, I walked into the most sacred, heartbreaking moments a family can experience; quietly creating memories they could hold onto forever.
In 2024, my dear friend, Erika, lost her daughter, Glory Bee. Our shared grief opened our eyes to something bigger than photography. Families didn’t just need memories, they needed support, community, and professionals trained to hold space with compassion.
That’s when The Mourning Forecast began.
From one story.
From one friendship.
From one baby whose life changed everything.
Why This Work Matters
Every baby deserves to be remembered.
Their life mattered, no matter how long they were here.
No family should grieve alone.
Presence is powerful. Support shouldn’t depend on resources or geography.
Professionals deserve to feel prepared.
Compassion can be taught. Confidence can be built.
Let’s Walk Together
Whether you need support, want to bring training to your workplace, or feel called to partner with our mission, we are here.
The Mourning Forecast 