News from the Room
The Power of Vulnerability
Vulnerability is not something that comes naturally to most of us. It is uncomfortable, exposing, and often feels like an invitation for rejection or judgment. For a long time, I held onto those fears myself. When our daughter Billie was stillborn, the idea of sharing my grief openly seemed impossible. I worried about the weight of my pain on others, about awkward silences, and about being seen as broken. But over time, I realised that speaking Billie’s name and sharing her story wasn’t just about my own healing, it was about connection. Each time I opened up, someone else did too. They would share their own losses, their own grief, their own struggles. Vulnerability, rather than isolating me, became the bridge that linked me to others.
Now, as I step into this next challenge, the $100,000 fundraising campaign to help establish the very much needed Pregnancy After Loss Clinic, I find myself confronting vulnerability in a whole new way. This goal demands more of me than any endurance challenge I’ve faced before. It’s not just about physical endurance, but about stepping further into openness, into the unknown. I have to put myself out there in ways I never have before, pitching my story to brands and companies, seeking partnerships, and asking for support. There is no certainty, no guarantee of success. Reaching out means risking rejection. Sharing my mission means exposing not just my determination, but also my fears and doubts.
But if grief has taught me anything, it’s that vulnerability is not weakness. It is the very thing that drives connection, progress, and change. Without it, we stay stuck, afraid to try, afraid to ask, afraid to grow. If I can lean into that discomfort and trust that openness will lead me forward, then this challenge, daunting as it is, has the potential to create something bigger than myself. Just as speaking about Billie’s life has built a community of understanding and support, I believe that being open about this journey can bring people together to make a real impact.
So, I embrace the discomfort. I embrace the uncertainty. And I remind myself that stepping into vulnerability has never led me astray, it has only ever led to deeper connection, greater purpose, and meaningful change.
The 411
This Week at Room Eleven
Meetings, Proposals and new beginnings
It’s been a huge week!
I had a really promising meeting with Globber Scooters’ global marketing team. The vibe was positive, and it definitely felt like they want to be involved in the campaign (they’re already talking about supplying scooters for the whole family!). At what capacity is still to be determined, but I’ve sent them a detailed proposal. Fingers crossed for a yes, as I truly believe they are the perfect fit, not just their durable scooters, but their company values align to our cause.
I’ve also been tidying up the website, giving it a fresh, crisp look with updated copy and a new video. It’s always a work in progress, but I’m happy with how it’s flowing at the moment. It feels much more polished and aligned with where Room Eleven is heading.
Sponsorship outreach is in full swing, with lots of proposal writing, emails, and LinkedIn pitch messages going out to various brands and groups. So far, no replies... yet. The waiting game can be tough, but persistence is key.
I also sent an official proposal to the Royal Women’s Hospital, outlining the scope of what I aim to achieve with the Guinness World Record scooter campaign. It’s exciting to have their support, and this partnership is something I’m really proud to be building.
On a personal note, this week marked my final week at my old job. It’s a bit of a relief not to be tethered to those responsibilities anymore, but it does bring the reality of my next chapter into focus. Until I get some sponsorship agreements locked in, I’ll be stretching this final pay over the next couple of months.
Still, I’m confident. With the value of this campaign, my passion and drive, and your support, I know we can get the right partnerships in place and make this happen.
Weekly Musings
What I’m Reading: CASAND Guidelines
I’ve been brushing up on the latest CASaND Guideline: Care in Subsequent Pregnancies from the Stillbirth CRE team. I’ve become part of a national pregnancy after loss network so I’m always looking for ways to better understand and improve care for families navigating pregnancy after loss. The CASaND Guideline outlines the importance of culturally appropriate care, new research into perinatal palliative care, and the ongoing need to close gaps in care.
It’s inspiring to see how much progress has been made, but there’s still a long way to go.
What I’m Watching: Back in Time: Back to the future documentary
This week, I revisited Back in Time, a documentary celebrating one of the greatest trilogies of all time, Back to the Future. Released in 2015 to mark the 30th anniversary of the first film (how is that 10 years ago already?!), it features exclusive interviews with the main cast, die-hard fans, and even creators like Adam Goldberg (The Goldbergs TV series), who were inspired by the films growing up.
It’s a fascinating look at how a story can shape culture, inspire generations, and create a lasting legacy.
It’s also one of the last few franchises that has escaped the endless sequel trend thanks to Bob Zemeckis, who holds the rights and has steadfastly refused to produce further installments. Thank you Bob!
This week has been a mix of momentum and waiting, action and patience. There are some exciting opportunities on the table, but as with anything worth doing, progress takes time. The challenge now is to keep pushing forward while trusting that the right doors will open.
If you’ve been following along and believe in what we’re building with Room Eleven, now is the time to get involved. Whether it’s sharing the journey, connecting us with potential partners, or just reaching out with a word of support, it all makes a difference.
Big things are coming, I can feel it. Trust the process and let’s make it happen.
Take care, and I’ll see you next week.
Rob
Giving Back
Donate a Still Billie Box
Our care packages for families who’ve lost their baby, named after our baby daughter Billie. Offering comfort during what should be a joyful season. Your donation can make a real difference in allowing us to provide free Still Billie Boxes to hospitals across Australia.
Room Eleven is a social enterprise business and does not qualify for DGR status.