When announcing the heartbreaking loss of her unborn baby, River Blis Dillard, the former 'Counting On' star reveals the meaning behind the name she chose for her third child.
- October 12, 2021
AceShowbiz - Jill Duggar has suffered a heartbreaking miscarriage. The former "Counting On" star lost her third child just days after learning that she's pregnant. Taking to her social media platforms, she detailed how her happiness quickly turned to heartbreak.
The 30-year-old mom broke the sad news to her fans in a video she shared on her website, YouTube and Instagram account on Monday, October 11. In the clip, she shared footage of the moment they learned they were expecting, as well as a heartwarming video of them telling their young sons, 4-year-old Samuel and 6-year-old Israel, that they were going to be brothers to a baby sibling in their Arkansas home.
"We recently found out that we were expecting our third baby," Jill and Derick Dillard, who tied the knot in 2014, wrote on their website. "We were thrilled! However, a few days later we started miscarrying. We love and miss you River Bliss!"
Jill and Derick went on explaining the meaning behind the name they chose. "One meaning for River is 'tranquil,' and here in Arkansas, rivers are often a serene, beautiful escape in nature," the former TLC stars wrote.
"We also like how the River talked about in the Bible (Rev. 22:1-5) represents God's life-giving presence. The river of life (Holy Spirit), 'flows from the throne of God,' and with the tree of life is 'for the healing of the nations,' " the couple added. "Our baby doesn't get to live here with us on earth, but is forever with the source of the river of life, in the presence of the Lord!"
Jill and Derick further elaborated that they "chose Bliss for a middle name because our baby is living in perfect bliss with the Lord." They added, "[the baby] was such a gift that brought immense joy and happiness to us even though only with us here on earth for a short time."
Jill's video tribute to their unborn child on her Instagram account was quickly flooded with words of sympathy from their family and fans. Jill's younger sister Jinger Duggar wrote, "Jill, my heart aches for you all. Love you so much and praying for you, sis!!" Jessa Duggar also chimed in, "Love you so much, and my heart breaks for you!"
"Little People, Big World" star Audrey Roloff penned, "Praying for your family. I'm so sorry Jill." In the meantime, a fan commented, "Jill and Derick, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much you wanted this baby. Know there are so many of us that are thinking of you and lifting you up with positive thoughts and prayers."
