Did you know that black women have a risk of stillbirth one and a half to two times higher at all stages of pregnancy than white women? Additionally, the rate of maternal mortality (death in pregnancy and childbirth) was five times higher for black women than white women.
We’ve just stumbled across author, Alicia S. Jones and we’re sitting here wondering, where has she been all our lives? Jones is on a mission to bring awareness to this issue in her newly released book titled, Sentenced to Live: A Mother’s Journey Back to Life from The Unthinkable. We caught up with Jones to discuss all the details in this exclusive interview.
Tell us about your new book ‘Sentenced to Live: A Mother’s Journey Back to Life from The Unthinkable.’
“Sentenced to Live” shares the devastating loss of my two beautiful sons who were taken away from me too soon in back-to-back pregnancies and the miraculous journey of my special needs, miracle daughter.
photo by Rick Archer
What do you hope each reader takes away from this book?
I believe that there is a plan and a purpose for each of our lives. We all will experience seasons of loss, pain, and suffering. Whether it is through the loss of a loved one, loss of job, or whatever that interruption of life may be, I want my readers to know that there is purpose behind the pain.
photo by Tommy Harris
How do you believe your faith helped you push through hard times?
No one could have ever convinced me that losing two children and parenting a special needs child would lead to my faith being stronger in God, but it has. It is only through my faith in God that I have been able to endure the most difficult circumstances of my life. I had no other choice but to rely on my faith. I have experienced great loss, but through my darkest hours, I have witnessed the greatest miracles.
What piece of advice would you offer to our readers dealing with loss andgrief?
Please know that it’s ok to cry; it’s okay to be emotional; it’s okay to feel; it’s okay to be angry. It is all a part of the healing process, but don’t get stuck there. You will rise again, so don’t give up. It’s not always about you; you may be the bridge to carry someone else over troubled waters. There is life after loss. Sharing is healing!
Is there anything you’re currently working on you can give us insight into?What can we expect to see from you in the future?
I’m hosting a virtual panel discussion along with Psychologist, Author and Ordained Minister Dr. Thema Bryant Davis at 6 p.m. P.S.T on April 30th. We’ll be speaking with experts offering tips to help anyone coping with loss while also offering resources and providing a platform for questions and answers. Please join us. To learn more, please visit my website at and follow me on Instagram.
Click here to purchase your copy today!
Alicia “Peaches” I can’t begin to tell you how I have prayed for you and Greg over the years for strength. Journeys may not be easy but God gives us strength to endure…and in the end, miracles (Genesis) do come…God bless you and your family…Love you ❤️🙏🏾