Lost Child Podcast

Going to therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. BetterHelp makes therapy simple, with 10% off your first month to help you get started: https://BetterHelp.com/LCP (Sponsored by BetterHelp) In Episode 37 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Kristine, the wife of Ernie, to hear her powerful and heartbreaking story. Kristine and Ernie were involved in a tragic traffic accident on their way home from Lake Powell. Kristine was hit by a vehicle, sustaining multiple injuries and blacking out at the scene. She was life-flighted to a trauma hospital, where she awoke to the devastating news that her son, Quinton, had died in the accident. In this emotional episode, Kristine shares her journey of recovery, physically, emotionally, and mentally. She speaks candidly about the difficulty of forgiving the person responsible for the accident and how she has found healing through that process. Kristine's story is one of resilience, strength, and the power of forgiveness. Support The Pod on Patreon - patreon.com/LostChildPodcast390

In episode 35 of The Lost Child Podcast, we dive into the powerful portrayal of grief, healing, and faith in The Chosen Season 4. Join us as we reflect on key moments from the series and discuss how they resonate with our personal journey through grief after the tragic loss of our daughter, Sunni. Permission to Use Clips: We've received official permission from The Chosen to use clips from the series in this episode. All rights to the original material are held by The Chosen. We're grateful for their support and are excited to share this discussion with our community. Watch The Chosen: For more about The Chosen and to explore the incredible storytelling, check out their app and website: Website: https://www.thechosen.tv/en-us Watch Online: https://watch.thechosen.tv/#carousels Get The Chosen App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-chosen/id6443956656 Disclaimer: This video includes clips from The Chosen for commentary and educational purposes, used with permission. This one might be better to watch instead of listening to. Here is the link to the video: https://youtu.be/fDcaoWkcJGc Follow Us: https://lostchildpodcast.store/ Support The Pod on Patreon - patreon.com/LostChildPodcast390    

Going to therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. BetterHelp makes therapy simple, with 10% off your first month to help you get started: https://BetterHelp.com/LCP (Sponsored by BetterHelp) In this episode of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Ernie, a father who tragically lost his son, Quinton, in a freak accident while returning from a trip to Lake Powell. Just 30 hours after Quinton's death, Ernie felt his son's presence unexpectedly and profoundly. Quinton held his hand. This experience opened Ernie's heart, and he began to see signs from Quinton that brought him deep comfort and helped him understand that there is more to this life, or, better stated, more after this life. Support The Pod on Patreon Ernie shares his journey of grief, healing, and the deep connection he feels with his son, who continues to communicate with him from beyond. These signs inspired Ernie to write Quinton's Messages, a book that chronicles the signs and experiences he's had after Quinton's passing. In his second book, Quinton's Legacy, Ernie expands the narrative to include anecdotal evidence from others who have also experienced signs from their loved ones who have transitioned. Ernie also references several other books during our conversation that have been pivotal in his healing journey. (Amazon Affiliate Statement: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the below links) Quinton's Messages - https://amzn.to/4d64f7e Quinton's Legacy - https://amzn.to/43dJUsk Many Lives, Many Masters - https://amzn.to/3F54jrn Messages from the Masters - https://amzn.to/4386jqH Journey of Souls - https://amzn.to/3GZWCTQ Destiny of Souls - https://amzn.to/4kaDsch This deeply moving episode offers insight into the lasting impact of grief and the power of turning loss into a lasting legacy. Join us for an inspiring conversation about love, resilience, and the ongoing connection with those we've lost.  

In Episode 34 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Ernestina, whose son Konnor tragically lost his life at 24 in a motorcycle accident. Support the podcast with a SHINE BRIGHT SHIRT - https://lostchildpodcast.store/collections/all On the day of the accident, Konnor said goodbye to his mother before heading out on his motorcycle. What was supposed to be a routine trip to a friend's house turned into a nightmare when Konnor collided with an SUV. Ernestina and her husband discovered the tragic news after noticing Konnor's location at the hospital, a place they didn't expect to find him. Ernestina shares her emotional journey of grief, acceptance, and how she's come to terms with the loss of her son over the past 5 years.  Support The Pod on Patreon - patreon.com/LostChildPodcast390

In Episode 33 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Rhonda, who shares her heartbreaking story of losing her son, Noah. Support the podcast with a SHINE BRIGHT SHIRT - https://lostchildpodcast.store/collections/all Noah's death was self-inflicted, and he left behind a young son, who was only 11 months old at the time. Rhonda was babysitting her grandson that night when detectives knocked on her door with the devastating news. Since Noah's passing, Rhonda has worked tirelessly to heal, finding strength through scripture, mentorship, hiking, and barrel racing on her horse. Before each race, she prays for guidance, asking if God willing, her mother and Noah may be riding with her. Rhonda's dedication to ensuring that Noah's son will always know how much his father loved him is deeply moving. She also created a hiking group in the West Valley of Phoenix, which has been instrumental in her grief journey, helping her connect with others who understand her pain. Join us for this inspiring conversation with Rhonda as she shares how she is honoring Noah's memory and navigating life after such a devastating loss. You can also find more information about Rhonda's hiking group https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FusAttnE1/ Support The Pod on Patreon - patreon.com/LostChildPodcast390  

In Episode 32 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Boisson, co-founder of Helping Parent Heal an organization dedicated to supporting parents through the loss of a child. Elizabeth shares her powerful journey of grief after losing her son Morgan, who tragically passed away from altitude sickness while studying abroad in Tibet. Support The Pod on Patreon - patreon.com/LostChildPodcast390 Through a transformative shared death experience with her son, Elizabeth found solace and a unique perspective on child loss. She and her team chose to refer to the experience as "transitioning" rather than death, emphasizing the belief that our children continue to exist in the next stage of life. Elizabeth's story of healing led to the creation of Helping Parents Heal, which started as a small group and has now grown into a nonprofit with affiliate chapters worldwide. The organization holds bi-annual conferences that bring together thousands of people seeking comfort and connection after loss. Elizabeth also shares the story of her daughter Chelsea, who transitioned shortly after birth, and how she believes Morgan helped her cope with the tragic situation. This conversation highlights the profound impact of shared experiences and community on the healing process. Join us for this heartfelt episode and hear how Elizabeth's life's work is helping parents heal from the unimaginable. Important Links: Patreon - patreon.com/LostChildPodcast390 Helping Parent Heal Website - https://www.helpingparentsheal.org/ Caring Listeners - https://www.helpingparentsheal.org/caring-listeners/ Life After Life Dr. Raymond Moody (Book) - https://amzn.to/4gHyHET Dr. Mary Neal Website - https://www.drmaryneal.com/ Netflix Series Surviving Death - https://www.netflix.com/title/80998853 Angel Studios Movie After Death - https://www.angel.com/movies/after-death Soul Shift: Finding Where the Dead Go (Mark Ireland Book) - https://amzn.to/41hJTnk  

In Episode 31 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Scott, who shares the heartbreaking story of his son, Keaton, who tragically died after a boating accident. Support The Pod on Patreon Keaton was just six years old and this devastating event happened over 10 years ago. Scott reflects on his journey of grief and healing since that fateful day. Scott opens up about the emotional struggles he faced, the difficult thoughts he had to process, and how he has been able to work through the grief over time. This raw, one-hour conversation offers a look at the deep pain of losing a child and the resilience required to move forward. Join us as Scott shares his story, providing insight into the complex process of healing after such an unimaginable loss.  This description has affiliate links, which means if you click on them, we might get some money to help support the pod. Thank you. Links to things referenced in the episode Somatic Experiencing (Ergos Institute) In an Unspoken Voice (Peter A. Levine) 0:00 - Remembering Keaton's Vibrant Energy 7:10 - The Heartbreaking Moment: How Keaton's Life Was Taken 16:05 - Navigating Life After Loss: The Sudden, Unimaginable Reality 26:15 - Coping with Grief: The Journey After Losing My Son 38:35 - When Keaton Died, My World Came to a Halt 48:46 - Somatic Experiencing and Other Healing Tools for Grief 52:52 - The Ripple Effect: How Tragedy Impacts Relationships 63:19 - If I Could Go Back: Advice I'd Give Myself After the Accident

In this episode of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Juli, the cofounder of Billy's Place, a peer-led grief support group for families based in Phoenix (West Valley). Billy's Place offers a safe space for those dealing with loss—whether from the death of a child, sibling, parent, grandparent, or friend. Through various group nights, including kids' nights, teen nights, and adult-only groups, Billy's Place helps families cope with grief in a community setting, where individuals can share their experiences and find comfort. Juli shares her personal journey of creating this vital nonprofit after the loss of her husband and son Billy's father, and how she brought the peer support group model to Arizona. Billy's Place has grown over the years and now even provides grief training in schools to support children who have experienced loss. In this episode, Juli discusses the impact of their work, the power of community in healing, and how you can get involved. If you are struggling with grief, loss, or the death of a loved one, this episode is a valuable resource. Learn about the incredible work of Billy's Place and the support they offer to families in need. Support The Lost Child Podcast: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue spreading these stories of hope and healing, please consider supporting us through our Patreon account. Your contribution helps us bring more powerful interviews and resources to those navigating grief. Support The Pod on Patreon For more information on Billy's Place and the support they offer, visit their website. Resources Used in this Podcast: Dr. Alan Wolfelt info Podcast with Harvard professor Arthur Brooks and John Delony

In this emotional episode of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with George and Sara, the parents of Megan, who tragically lost her life in an active shooter incident in Belize. Just months after the devastating event, George and Sara bravely share their journey of grief, love, and the painful aftermath of their daughter's death. Megan was at a park near her school when a shooter opened fire, killing her and an adult. Other children were present and taken to the hospital. Support The Pod on Patreon Help support the podcast by buying a Shine Bright T-Shirt In this episode, we hear about Megan's vibrant life, the impact of her death, and the healing process her parents are navigating. George and Sara also reflect on their search for support, which led them to The Lost Child Podcast, and their decision to share their story with the world. This is a powerful conversation about loss, resilience, and the enduring love parents hold for their children. Join us as we remember Megan and support her family's journey through unimaginable pain.

In Episode 28 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Leann Hull, the founder of Andy Hull's Sunshine Foundation. Leann shares her heart-wrenching story of her son, Andy, who tragically died by suicide at the age of 16. She discusses the series of events leading to his death, including a breakup, academic struggles, online bullying, and the side effects of acne medication that made it difficult for Andy to cope with these challenges. Leann now dedicates her life to suicide prevention, speaking at various events, advocating for suicide prevention education in schools, and offering support to those struggling with mental health. She also gives out "You Matter" bracelets to spread awareness, which can be ordered through her foundation's website. Leann is also the author of the book How to Live When You Want to Die, available on Amazon. In this episode, she shares how she's turning her grief into a mission to help others and prevent further tragedies like the one she experienced. Join us as Leann shares her journey, the work she's doing through Andy Hull's Sunshine Foundation, and how we can all contribute to preventing suicide and supporting mental health. You can find more information about Leann's mission and order bracelets here: You Matter Bracelets Donate to the foundation here: Donate to Andy Hull's Sunshine Foundation Purchase Leann's book on Amazon: How to Live When You Want to Die

In this episode of The Lost Child Podcast, Camille and I dive into our experience completing our first triathlon and how exercise has played a crucial role in our grief journey. After the loss of our daughter, Sunni, we knew that moving our bodies could help with the emotional weight we were carrying, but we didn't fully understand how transformative it would be. Buy a Shine Bright Shirt We discuss the physical and emotional challenges of training for and finishing a triathlon, and how this experience has helped us cope with grief, find moments of peace, and rediscover joy. We also explore the science behind why exercise can be such an important tool in managing grief and improving mental health. Join us as we share our journey, the lessons we've learned, and how moving our bodies has become an essential part of our healing process. If you're struggling with grief or looking for ways to cope, we hope this episode offers insight, hope, and inspiration.   References: Coping with adversity: physical activity as a moderator in adaption to bereavement The impact of exercise on depression: how moving makes your brain and body feel better The impact of physical fitness on resilience to modern life stress and the mediating role of general self-efficacy Can Physical Activity Support Grief Outcomes in Individuals Who Have Been Bereaved? A Systematic Review

In this tender episode, we speak with Sammy's loving mom, who shares beautiful memories of her son. Help support the podcast by buying a Shine Bright T-Shirt Support The Pod on Patreon Despite living with a rare gene mutation that caused untreatable epilepsy, Sammy's sweet nature and love for cuddles brought joy to his family, especially his adoring sisters. After a tragic accident left him unable to recover, Sammy's heart became a miracle for another through organ donation. His mom reflects on the profound grief that follows the loss of a child, and how she has found ways to cope with the pain while keeping Sammy's memory alive. This heartfelt story offers comfort and hope to others walking through the difficult journey of child loss.

Join Camille as she gives a heartfelt tour of our Sunni Studio, where every item holds deep personal meaning. From cherished memories to significant symbols, each piece tells a part of our journey with grief. We created this space not only to remember our daughter Sunni but also to help others understand grief, find ways to overcome it, and support those who are grieving.  

In this special episode of The Lost Child Podcast, released on the anniversary of Sunni's passing, Camille and I (Blake) sit down to reflect on the past year. We share an honest and heartfelt overview of how we've been coping, discussing both the profound lows and the unexpected blessings that have emerged in the wake of our daughter's death. Join us as we navigate through the ups and downs, recounting the hard times and the moments of light that have given us strength. This episode is a tribute to Sunni's memory and a testament to the resilience and love that continue to guide us.   The pictures referenced in this podcast can be found in the video podcast right here.

In this profound episode of the Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Pam and Dana, the resilient parents of Ryan, who tragically took his own life and they share how this loss has impacted their marriage. Help support the podcast by buying a Shine Bright T-Shirt Support The Pod on Patreon Pam and Dana courageously share their personal journey of coping with the immense grief and the impact it had on their marriage. They discuss the challenges they faced as a couple, the importance of not being ashamed of their son's death, and the resources they found helpful for parents, teachers, and teens struggling with mental health issues. Their story is a testament to the strength of love, support, and the commitment to bringing awareness to teen suicide and mental health. Join us for an intimate conversation that sheds light on the complexities of grief and the power of resilience.

In Episode 22 of The Lost Child Podcast, we hear the heart-wrenching story of Keisher, who lost her son EJ to the common cold during a family trip to California in 2003. Help support the podcast by buying a Shine Bright T-Shirt Support The Pod on Patreon As Keisher's family planned their Thanksgiving vacation, they never imagined the tragedy that would unfold. EJ, always full of life and love, began showing symptoms of a cold passed on by his sister. Despite their concerns, the family decided to proceed with their trip, hoping for joyful memories. Upon arriving in California, EJ continued to be his playful self, even enjoying one of his favorite activities: vacuuming. But that night, everything changed. EJ woke up multiple times, expressing his love for his mother and asking to see a doctor. In the early morning hours, EJ's condition worsened, and despite rushing him to the hospital, he tragically passed away. Now, over 20 years later, Keisher reflects on the profound impact of EJ's loss, sharing the highs and lows she's experienced since that fateful day. Join us as Keisher bravely recounts her journey of grief, resilience, and the enduring love for her son.

We sit down with Pam, who shares the devastating story of losing her son Ryan to suicide.  Suicide Hotline Click Here Other helpful links discussed in the video: Teen Lifeline or Call and Text Crisis Line: 602-248-8336 (TEEN) American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Mental Health First Aid Mental Health Superheros Support The Pod on Patreon Pam talks openly about her experiences as a mother on the day Ryan died and the profound impact it had on her life. She emphasizes the importance of not being ashamed of Ryan or the fact of his suicide. Pam discusses the emotional journey of navigating such a tragic loss and highlights the resources available for parents, teachers, and teens struggling with mental health issues. She also shares how her strong support system has helped carry her through these difficult times. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about loss, resilience, and hope, as we explore the truth about teen suicide from a mother's perspective.

In Episode 20 of the Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Kara, who shares her heartbreaking journey of loss and resilience. Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon At 17, Kara faced the tragic death of her mother in a car accident. Seven years later, her sister succumbed to breast cancer after a fierce battle, only to have it return and spread to her brain and lungs. Nine years after that, Kara's brother died of a heart attack. Just last year, Kara's father passed away, adding to the weight of her grief. Over the last 23 years, Kara has lost four close family members, each loss uniquely devastating. She opens up about how these profound losses have shaped her life, how she now grieves not only her own pain but also the grief of others, and the ongoing journey of healing. Join us for this powerful episode as Kara bravely shares her story of enduring love, loss, and the strength to continue forward.

In Episode 19 of Season 2, we sit down with Dana as he bravely shares the heart-wrenching story of his son Ryan. Ryan battled depression and anxiety throughout his teenage years, struggles that ultimately led to him taking his own life. Suicide Hotline Click Here Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Mental Health Super Heros discussed in the Podcast Dana opens up about the devastating impact of Ryan's death on their family and how they have chosen to turn their grief into a mission for change. This episode delves into the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially among teenagers. Dana discusses the signs and struggles that Ryan faced, and how their family is working to bring awareness to these critical issues in hopes of preventing other families from experiencing the same pain. Join us for a poignant conversation about the journey from tragedy to advocacy, and the enduring legacy of Ryan's story. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support and suicide awareness.

In Episode 18 of The Lost Child Podcast, we hear Dave's harrowing story about the loss of his daughter Addy.  Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Addy was tragically killed in a single-car accident caused by a blown tire and excessive speed. The driver, a cousin of Addy's mom, also died in the crash. Addy's sister, who was in the car, suffered life-threatening injuries but miraculously made a full recovery. Dave, a policeman, was driving just five minutes behind the car his daughter was in. When he came upon the crash, he stopped to help, only to realize it was his family's car wreck. He immediately went into cop mode, trying to organize help for everyone involved, despite the shock of seeing his beloved Addy and his wife's cousin dead. Fifteen years later, Dave continues to work through the grief and pain of losing Addy. In this episode, he shares his journey of coping with the tragic loss, the impact it has had on his life, and how he has managed to find moments of healing amidst the ongoing sorrow. Join us as Dave bravely recounts that fateful day and his enduring struggle with grief, offering a poignant reflection on the resilience of the human spirit.

In this Suicide Lost Child Podcast episode, we sit down with Mallory as she shares the story of her brother Chase, who took his own life as a teenager. Suicide Hotline Click Here Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon We sit down with Mallory, Chase's younger sister, to hear her deeply personal and moving story. Mallory and Chase were incredibly close; she always looked up to him. The day Chase took his own life, Mallory was searching for him when her dad called her back to the house to deliver the heartbreaking news. Mallory opens up about her year-long journey of coming to terms with Chase's death and the profound impact it has had on her life. She shares how her family dynamics have shifted, the emotional toll of grief, and the physical pain caused by the loss. This episode offers a raw and honest perspective on the ripple effects of suicide within a family.

We sit down with Andy as she shares the emotional journey of losing her son, Xavier. Andy's Writing (The Gift to be Healed) Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon In October 2023, Xavier suffered a cardiac arrest caused by Long QT syndrome, an electrical issue with the heart. Despite efforts to revive him, Xavier's condition was dire. Andy recounts the heartbreaking experience of seeing her son in a coma and the difficult decision to remove him from life support after he failed to progress through the phases of consciousness. Xavier's story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of a mother's love. Join us as we explore Andy's story, from the initial shock to the profound grief, and the steps she's taking towards healing.

In this Suicide Lost Child Podcast episode, we sit down with Craig as he bravely shares the story of his son Chase, who took his own life as a teenager.  Suicide Hotline Click Here Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Craig opens up about the challenges of navigating life after Chase's death, shedding light on some of the struggles Chase faced. He candidly discusses the profound feeling of failure as a father, a burden that he believes will remain with him indefinitely. Join us as Craig shares his journey of learning to live with this grief, highlighting that it's not something you simply "get over," but rather something you must learn to carry with you for the rest of your life.

In the Season 2 premiere of the Lost Child Podcast, Shannon bravely opens up about the tragic loss of her daughter, Maddie. Suicide Hotline Click Here Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon At just 14 years old, Maddie took her own life after struggling with mental health issues. Shannon shares the signs and struggles Maddie faced, including seeking help and being on medication. Shannon also reflects on her own journey of healing and hope, admitting that while she may never be fully happy, she does experience moments of happiness. Join us as Shannon honors Maddie's memory and finds strength in sharing her story. 

In Episode 013 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Camille, the mother of Sunni, as she bravely shares her story. Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Camille recounts the tragic accident involving Sunni and the profound impact it has had on her life. Camille lovingly describes Sunni's bright personality and the amazing person she was, highlighting the depth of her loss. She opens up about the challenges of forgiving herself as a parent when faced with the unimaginable tragedy of losing a child. Join us as Camille offers a poignant reflection on grief, loss, and the complex emotions that accompany such a profound loss. Her story is a testament to the enduring love between a mother and her child, and the resilience of the human spirit.

In Episode 012 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Blake (me, the co-creator of this podcast) Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon I open up about the tragic loss of my daughter, Sunni. At just 6 years old, Sunni's life was cut short in a terrible boating accident in July. I share the heart-wrenching moments leading up to Sunni's death and the profound impact her passing has had on me. I delve into the range of feelings and emotions I have experienced since that fateful day, including the ongoing struggles I face. Join me as I candidly discuss my relationship with God and my journey of healing. I share my most intimate thoughts, including moments of darkness and the profound love I continue to hold for Sunni. This episode serves as a 6-month update since Sunni's passing, offering a raw and honest reflection on grief, loss, and the enduring power of love.

In Episode 011 of The Lost Child Podcast, we are joined by John and Colleen Harrington, who share the poignant story of their son, Rex. Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Tragically, at just 18 months old, Rex drowned in a pool, leaving a profound impact on John and his family. Following Rex's passing in the 1980s, John channeled his grief into action, becoming heavily involved in the drowning coalition. He worked tirelessly to prevent other child drownings, advocating for barrier codes and safety measures in cities across the country. Join us as John and Colleen reflect on Rex's life, their ongoing grief, and John's mission to honor Rex's memory by saving lives. Their story is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of loss and the strength that can be found in advocacy and love.

In Episode 010 of The Lost Child Podcast, we hear Julia's heartfelt story of her son, Levi, who tragically drowned in a pool at the age of 5. Levi was on the autism spectrum, adding layers of complexity to Julia's grief. Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Julia opens up about the challenges of continuing as a parent after losing Levi and emphasizes the importance of self-care. She shares that taking care of herself first is essential in order to care for her other children and navigate the ongoing journey of grief. Join us as Julia's story highlights the strength found in self-care and the resilience of a mother's love. Through her experience, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing our own well-being, especially in the face of unimaginable loss.

In Episode 009 of The Lost Child Podcast, we embark on a journey of healing with Marlon as he shares the story of his son, Ryan. At the age of 27, Ryan's life was tragically cut short in a car accident, leaving Marlon to navigate the challenging terrain of grief and loss. Like A River - Book Amazon Affiliate Link Marlon found solace and strength in his faith, turning to God through prayer and scripture study to guide him through the darkest moments of his life. Music also became a source of comfort, with Marlon even playing the guitar when he received the heartbreaking news of Ryan's passing. Join us as Marlon reminisces about the adventurous and cherished moments he shared with Ryan, particularly their reptile-hunting escapades. Through Marlon's journey, we are reminded that even in the depths of grief, there is a path forward towards healing and hope.

In Episode 008 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Maralyn, a mother whose life has been marked by unimaginable loss. Maralyn shares the heartbreaking stories of her daughters, Ashlie and Jenika, whose lives were tragically cut short. Support The Pod on Patreon At just 12 years old, Ashlie passed away due to an undiagnosed brain tumor, leaving a void in Maralyn's life that could never be filled. The loss of Ashlie had a profound impact on the family, including Jenika, who struggled with the aftermath. Tragically, Jenika's life took a dark turn, leading to her involvement with drugs and her untimely death under suspicious circumstances three years after Ashlie. The search for answers continued for over five years until Jenika's remains were finally found. Join us as Maralyn opens up about her journey of grief, resilience, and the enduring love she holds for her daughters. Through the pain, Maralyn's story is a testament to the strength of a mother's love and the enduring power of the human spirit.

In Episode 006 of The Lost Child Podcast, we have the privilege of sitting down with Vicki, a courageous mother who shares the poignant story of her son, Spencer. At just two years old, Spencer tragically drowned in the family spa, leading to a two-year-long battle for survival in a vegetative state before his passing. 'Like A River' Book Amazon Affiliate Link Support The Pod on Patreon Vicki opens up about the profound impact of Spencer's death on her, her husband Kent, and their entire family. Through heartache and grief, Vicki shares how they found strength in each other and in honoring Spencer's memory.

In Episode 006 of The Lost Child Podcast, we have the privilege of sitting down with Gordon, a remarkable father who shares the inspiring story of his son, Andrew James. Born with disabilities and defying medical expectations, Andrew lived a vibrant life filled with his love for cars, particularly Lightning McQueen. Gordon's connection to Andrew goes beyond the physical, as he shares his unique gift of seeing numbers intertwined with scriptures, finding solace and meaning in their correlation. With over 10,000 scriptures memorized, Gordon attributes his coping mechanism and faith to the guidance of the Bible, God and the support of his community. Join us as Gordon takes us on a journey filled with resilience, love, and the profound bond between a father and his son. Andrew's story reminds us of the power of hope, faith, and finding light in unexpected places. Support The Pod on Patreon  

In this special Couples Edition of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Doug and Lisa, parents of Joel, to explore the profound impact of grief on their relationship. Join us for a candid conversation as they share their journey of love, loss, and the resilience that binds them together. Dive into the complexities of navigating grief as a couple, as Doug and Lisa open up about how Joel's passing at the age of 21 reshaped the dynamics of their relationship. Together, they reflect on the challenges they faced, the ways grief tested their bond, and the strength they discovered in supporting each other through the darkest moments. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of love, as Doug and Lisa share their insights, vulnerabilities, and the unique journey they've undertaken as partners grieving the loss of their beloved son, Joel.   Support The Pod on Patreon

In Episode 4 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Doug, Joel's father, offering a unique and deeply personal perspective on the events surrounding Joel's passing at the age of 21. Doug shares the challenges the family faced during this difficult time, providing insight into the complexities of their lives. As Doug unravels the layers of his experience, he reflects on his main coping strategy—music. Dive into Doug's world as he discusses how listening to melodies and singing along became a source of solace and strength while navigating the storm of grief. Join us on this poignant journey as Doug opens up about the difficulties surrounding Joel's death and the ways in which music played a pivotal role in his healing process. This episode is a testament to the diverse ways individuals cope with loss and the power of music to bring solace in the face of unimaginable pain.

In Episode 3 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Lisa, a resilient mother who opens her heart to share the deeply personal story of her son, Joel. Tragically, Joel passed away at the age of 21 in their family home, casting a shadow over their lives during a time of transition and multiple struggles. Lisa takes us on a poignant journey, reminiscing about Joel's childhood and youth. She candidly discusses the struggles her family faced during this transitional period, shedding light on the myriad challenges that compounded their grief. In the face of profound loss, Lisa found solace in her faith, church, and the unwavering support of her community. She shares how her connection with God played a pivotal role in helping her cope and ultimately reach a place of acceptance. The death of Joel, coming at a low point in their lives, led Lisa into a numbing stage, a period of feeling nothing at all. This episode is a testament to the complex interplay of faith, grief, and acceptance. Join us as Lisa's story unfolds, offering insights into the transformative power of spirituality during life's darkest moments.

In Episode 2 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Jenni, a brave mother who shares her heartfelt journey following the loss of her son, Declan. Six years ago, on Christmas day, their lives changed forever. Holidays, already challenging after the loss of a child, became even more intense as Declan's death date coincided with Christmas. Jenni opens up about the profound impact of losing Declan, offering a poignant glimpse into her life as she grapples with grief, navigates the holidays, and finds ways to honor Declan's memory. Join us as we delve into the details of Declan's life, celebrating the love and joy he brought to the world. This episode is a testament to resilience, the strength of a mother's love, and the enduring spirit of those we hold dear. Listen as Jenni shares her journey, offering insights into the complexities of grief during the holiday season.  

Join us in the inaugural episode of The Lost Child Podcast as we walk alongside Christy, a resilient mother who shares her profound journey of grief, faith, and unwavering love. Sixteen years ago, tragedy struck when her beloved son, Ben, lost his life in a UTV accident during his teenage years. In this deeply emotional conversation, Christy opens her heart to recount the immediate aftermath of the accident and how she found solace in the simple act of walking—turning each step into a powerful metaphor for processing her thoughts and navigating the tumultuous path of grief. Christy takes us on a poignant exploration of her feelings, her unwavering faith, and the enduring impact that Ben's loss has had on her life. Through vulnerability and strength, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs in the ongoing journey of healing.

Why would anyone want to make a podcast about a child dying? Why would we be the ones to do this? On July 28th, tragedy struck our lives, and our precious 6-year-old girl, Sunni, passed away. We've experienced the unimaginable, and now, we feel compelled to extend a helping hand to others walking down a similar, lonely path—the path of losing a child. In this deeply personal debut episode, join me, Blake Wasden, and my wife, Camille Wasden, as we share an intimate overview of our family and recount the heart-wrenching details of Sunni's passing. Our mission is clear: we want to help others navigate the profound pain of losing a child, offering companionship, understanding, and a source of hope.

Welcome to 'The Lost Child Podcast,' a space where we navigate the difficult journey of losing a child, exploring what healing looks like, and sharing stories of resilience. We are Blake & Camille Wasden, the hosts of this podcast. Most of the content will be us interviewing parents who have had a child pass away. This podcast is a tribute to our beloved 6-year-old, Sunni, who tragically died in July of 2023. This has been the hardest thing we've gone through (having our child die). Whether it's dealing with the profound impact of suicide, illness, or tragedy, we're here to help others who are facing similar struggles. Join us as we share our experiences, offer support, and shed light on the unique challenges of this heartbreaking journey. Together, let's find strength, healing, and hope.