Heather Johnson | Honoring Liam’s Life Through Advocacy, Love, and Legacy

In this episode of the NICU Today Podcast, we are joined by Heather Johnson, an Executive Director at Morgan Stanley with a 19-year career on the Institutional Equity Electronic Trading Desk, and the founder of the Love for Liam Foundation. Heather established the foundation in honor of her son Liam, whose brief but powerful life continues to inspire her mission to advance epilepsy research and improve outcomes for families facing similar diagnoses.Heather is also a devoted mother to Emma (8) and Mia (2), and she brings both her professional leadership experience and deeply personal journey into her advocacy work. Through community engagement, philanthropy, and storytelling, Heather is committed to ensuring Liam’s life continues to make an impact.On today’s episode:Heather shares her journey to starting a family and welcoming her children.Her experience welcoming her son Liam and the medical challenges that followed.Being transferred to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the emotions that accompanied that transition.Navigating life in the hospital while supporting her daughter at home.How the hospital team supported her and her family during an incredibly difficult time.Reflections on what she wishes she had known and what she hopes other families can learn from her experience.How Heather honors Liam’s life today and keeps him present within her family.Talking about loss with her daughters and helping them understand their brother’s story.What inspired her to give back through fundraising and the creation of the Love for Liam Foundation.An update on how her daughters are doing today.Heather’s story is one of profound love, resilience, and purpose. This episode offers heartfelt insight into navigating loss while continuing to show up for living children, and how honoring a child’s legacy can create meaningful change for families and communities alike.