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When your life has revolved around caring for your medically complex child, their absence changes everything: your routines, your identity, your relationships, and evenyour purpose in life.In this tender conversation, Stephanie Stanley shares what it's like to live through end of life decisions for your medically complex child and to continue on after the caregiving ends. We cover the isolation that follows, the way grief changed her relationships and community, and the small ways she's keeping Payton close.She also opens up about the support that helped her most, her advice for those walking alongside grieving parents, and what she wishes others understood about the grievingprocess after child loss.Just a note: this episode covers themes of grief,child loss, end of life decisions, and more. Please listen with care.If you have lost a child, may face child loss in the future, or simply care for someone who has been in a similar position, this is an episode you can't miss.Links: Listen to Ep 152: Stephanie's Story.Join The Rare Life newsletter andnever miss an update!Fill out our contact form to joinupcoming discussion groups!Follow us on Instagram @the_rare_life!Connect with Stephanie on Instagram @steph_stanley12Donateto the podcast or Contactme about sponsoring an episode.Follow the Facebook page. Join the Facebook group Parents of Children with Rare Conditions.Access the transcript on the website here. And if you love this podcast, please leave usa rating or review in your favorite podcast app!
Eight minutes. That is how long it took for Michael's life to be forever changed. In late November 2016, a fire broke out in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Unbeknownst to Michael, the winds picked up while he was driving with his oldest son, and the fires swept toward the family home. Michael is haunted by nightmares of his frantic drive back through the fires, trying to get back home. By the time he arrived, the fire had taken the lives of his daughters, Chloe and Lily, as well as his wife, Constance. In the months after the fires, as Michael struggled to sleep, he would write about his pain. One day, he posted a writing on Facebook. It "went nuts," causing Michael to start a blog. Michael continued in his dark world until November 2023, when he stood at the memorial for the fires. He whispered to the empty air, opening his heart to the girls he had lost. In the silence, he heard Chloe's voice, bright and urgent: “Daddy, it's time to do the work.” The words struck a chord deep inside him. That night, he enrolled in college, determined to learn how to translate his pain into something to help others. Thus, The Million Stages of Grief was born. Each chapter opens with an italicized fragment from his old blog — a snapshot of confusion, terror, or numbness. The remainder of the chapter presents the lessons he gathered in classrooms, therapy rooms, and through life's experiences, reshaping those dark moments into pathways forward. Before pressing “publish,” Michael whispered a brief prayer, handing the manuscript over to his girls, asking, "I am completely giving this to you. However big you want this to go, however many people you want to read it, I give it all to you." Years ago, while working as a zipline instructor, a woman kicked Michael, knocking him over. Inexplicably, five years later and one month after that prayer, she posted the video to TikTok, garnering 1.5 million views. Curious, Michael created his own TikTok account, stitching the video to a narration of his story and book. The new post surged to 2.5 million views. I guess his girls decided that their story needed to go very big indeed.
When a father loses a child, the world shifts forever. In this first half of my two-part conversation with grieving dad Terry Sternad, he takes us back more than forty years to the day his six-year-old son, TJ, went to heaven—and the remarkable way God was already preparing his heart for that moment.Before TJ's death in December of 1983, Terry didn't believe in God. But through the faithful witness of a coworker and tender moments with his mother, seeds of faith were planted long before he knew how desperately he would need them. On the day that changed everything, Terry found himself praying for the first time—and discovering a God who met him right in the middle of his deepest pain.In this episode, we talk about:How God often begins preparing us for what's ahead, even when we don't see itThe shock of sudden loss and the early days of griefThe power of a simple, honest prayer: “God, help me”Why Terry calls the day of TJ's death both the worst and the best day of his lifeHow faith began to take root, even in the middle of unimaginable sorrowTerry's story is a tender reminder that even in our darkest moments, God's presence is near—and that the seeds He plants in quiet, ordinary seasons can one day sustain us through the unthinkable.Join us again next week for Part 2, where Terry shares how his grief and faith have continued to grow over the past forty years, how God has used his story to help others, and what hope looks like for a grieving dad who has learned to trust God with every chapter of his life.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
The one-year anniversary of your child's death is a day no parent ever wants to face. It can feel unbearably heavy, filled with painful "last time" memories and overwhelming emotions. In this episode of Grieving Parents Sharing Hope, Laura gently shares her heart on this topic, based on her own experience after the death of […] The post 317: Facing the One-Year Anniversary After Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.
When your child dies, peace feels foreign. It's not just the absence of calm—it feels unreachable, like something other people get to have but you don't anymore. If that's you, friend, this episode will help you see peace differently. Not as something waiting at the end of your pain, but as a gift Jesus offers right in the middle of it. Here's what we'll explore together: Why the world's definition of peace will always leave you empty How Jesus' peace shows up even when the chaos doesn't stop The difference between striving for peace and receiving it as a gift Six characteristics of the peace that steadies a grieving heart Peace doesn't erase grief—but it does carry you when the weight feels too heavy to bear alone. Press play and let this message sit with you. Listen Next:
He should be here. Today's guest, Lindsay, says that these are the four most impactful words that have been said to her in the year since her 6-month-old son, Chase, died from bacterial meningitis. These words don't try to cheer her up or remind her of some grand plan. They simply acknowledge the wrongness of the whole situation. Lindsay's family no longer feels complete without Chase. Smiling 'Chasey' should be tagging along, trying to keep up with his big brother, Jack. Chase should be here. From the time her two boys were tiny babies, Lindsay would read to them. She loved reading board books by Nancy Tillman, especially 'On the Night You Were Born' and 'Wherever You Go: My Love Will Find You.' This second book begins with the line, 'I wanted you more than you'll ever know, so I sent love to follow wherever you go.' The book goes on to describe how the mother's love will follow the child wherever he or she goes, whether it be going swimming, climbing trees, or marching in parades. It reminds the child that as they grow, their mother's love will continue to follow them throughout life. The last line of the book reads, 'You are my angel, my darling, my star, and my love will find you wherever you are.' Since Chase's death, Lindsay has truly realized the truth of that little board book. The book was certainly not written for grieving parents, but we can hold fast to the words of that book, can't we? Death does not end our love for our children. Our love continues to follow them after death. Lindsay's love for Chase has followed him all the way to heaven. In the year since Chase died, her love for Chase has not diminished. Her love has continued to grow just as it does for all mothers. On Chase's birthday, Lindsay now donates 70 copies of 'Wherever You Go: My Love will Find You' to the NICU where she works and Baby Chase once stayed. Certainly, Chase should be here as a laughing, smiling toddler, but as she sees parents read these books to their new babies, Lindsay remembers that their love for each other continues to grow, and these books will help spread that love even further.
Alexandra is the founder of the clothing brand Alexandra & Wells, created in honor of her son, Wells, who tragically passed away in 2019 due to a negligent labor and delivery. In this deeply emotional episode, Alexandra shares Wells' story publicly for the first time, along with the legal battle that followed as she sought justice for him.Out of her grief, Alexandra built a brand that has reached and comforted thousands of loss moms around the world. Her iconic sweatshirt, Mother of an Angel, was the very first piece of clothing I bought in honor of my son, Brody. I needed the world to know he existed, and wearing it kept him close to me. For that, I will always be grateful to Alexandra and what she has created—something I know countless other mothers feel as well.Her love for her son, and for all of our babies, shines through in everything she does. Alexandra is a true inspiration, turning unimaginable pain into a source of connection, remembrance, and love.Find her clothing here: https://alexandraandwells.com/ *************************************NOTE: I am not a doctor or a therapist. The views of my guests are not always reflective of my own. I am just a real life loss mom describing her experiences with life after loss. These are my experiences, and I'm putting it out there so you feel less alone. Always do your own research and make informed decisions!For more REAL TALK about baby loss and grief, hit subscribe to be notified when another episode drops!Support the podcast and shop the store! At a Total Loss Shop Instagram @thekatherinelazar Youtube: @thekatherinelazarEmail: thekatherinelazar@gmail.comWebsite: www.katherinelazar.com Some helpful resources:https://countthekicks.org/https://www.measuretheplacenta.org/https://www.pushpregnancy.org/https://www.tommys.org/ Local to Atlanta:https://www.northsidepnl.com/
“Surrender is not a moment; it's a posture I've had to return to again and again.”With these words, Julie South describes the ongoing journey she's walked since her daughter Bellah's homegoing. In this second part of our conversation, Julie shares honestly about living with PTSD, how trauma has impacted her family, and what surrender has looked like as she continues to walk with God through grief.She also reflects on how her grief has evolved nearly six years later, why simple practices like worship rooted in Scripture and putting up the Christmas tree in October have become anchors of hope, and the significance of the phrase “the best is yet to come.”Julie shares encouragement for moms who are just beginning their grief journey and talks about the new While We're Waiting support group she and her husband, Scott, are preparing to begin in Florida.This conversation is tender, honest, and full of reminders that even in the darkest seasons, God holds us fast.Click HERE to learn more about the Sibling Lifeline retreats for adult bereaved siblings. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
Send us a textHOW TO DEAL WITH GRIEF AND TRAUMA is completely self-funded, produced, and edited by me, Nathalie Himmelrich. Consider making a small donation to support the Podcast: bit.ly/SupportGTPodcast. Thank you! For more information, please visit Nathalie's website, join the podcast's Instagram page, and subscribe to the newsletter to receive updates on future episodes here.About this week's episodeToday on the podcast, I'm speaking with Tamara Gabriel. In our conversation, we look back over almost 30 years since the death of her daughter, a decade since speaking about Jenna's death, to when we worked on the book Surviving My First Year of Child Loss in 2017, to now, 10 years later. Her nine-year-old daughter Janna died over the Fourth of July weekend in 1997, when Tamara was driving to a friend's home. The car hydroplaned and collided with another car, killing Janna.Tamara became isolated in her grief and felt people had turned away from her. She responded by writing a poem about the importance of hugs:If You See MeIf you see me, do not run . . .I know that talk is not much fun.I know your hearts are sure to tug,But all I need is just a hug.After her poem was published in the local paper, many people approached her, saying they'd read it, and then hugged her.Sixteen years later, in 2013, Tamara started Healing Hugs. This nonprofit organisation assists with funeral-related services or other expenses. For example, when Tamara learned that, for a number of complicated reasons, a child did not yet have a headstone, she offered to provide one for his grave.About this week's guestTamara Gabriel is a massage therapist. She works with her husband, who is a psychiatrist in his medical clinic. They've been together for 23 years, married for 19, they are happily married and living in Arizona, a dream they've always looked forward to together.Support the showFind support: Offers - free and paid Support the show: Become a supporter of the show! Starting at $3/month Join Facebook Group - Grief and Trauma Support Network Download the FREE grief resource eBook Book a Discovery Call Leave a review Follow on socials: Instagram Facebook Website
What was wrong with me? Was I not good enough? Would it ever be possible to become a mum and navigate infertility problems, willy nilly partners, costly medical procedures, possible child loss and becoming older or single in the process? The answer is yes - and the strategies we will present you come from Cheri Bergeron, an author and like coach, who went through all the above, and now from the other side, as a fulfilled mum of two, educates and empowers women who feel the call to become mothers. Cheri will show us the many diverse paths we can explore to reach the end goal of having a child to love, support and encourage to reach his potential. She will also outline how her faith has grown during the process, the importance of healing before we embark in this long journey and why she thinks that God still loves us even when he is not immediately fulfilling the righteous desire to mother a child. Her personal journey includes a successful career in IT, years of IVF, child illness and loss, and the realities of “geriatric pregnancy.” Her nonprofit, Cheri's Choice, provides education, counseling, and community support for women seeking non-traditional paths to motherhood. Her mantra? If the glass slipper doesn't fit, screw the fairy tale! Become a mother on your terms. Today, from her home in Austin, Texas, she empowers women to reject limiting fairy tales and boldly chart their own paths to motherhood — even without a Prince Charming. Link to Cheri'sbook on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k7VNqE Author website: www.cheribergeron.com Cheri's Choice (nonprofit): www.cherischoice.com Video link: https://youtu.be/QCX60PAXkdU Topics covered: infertility, motherhood, solo motherhood, single mom, single mother by choice, IVF, in vitro fertilization, egg freezing, donor egg, sperm donor, surrogacy, adoption, geriatric pregnancy, high-risk pregnancy, pregnancy over 40, child loss, grief, faith, motherhood on your own terms, Cheri's Choice, women's empowerment, fertility journey, trying to conceive, reproductive health, single parents, family building Did you enjoy this episode and would like to share some love?
When you're grieving, every voice feels loud—opinions, news, social media, even your own thoughts. But how do you know which one to follow? In this episode, I share one simple, biblical step that will help you quiet the confusion and recognize God's voice in the middle of grief. In this episode, you'll hear: Why so many voices sound convincing but aren't life-giving The danger of letting the wrong voice lead your grief journey The one test that brings peace and clarity when nothing else makes sense Listen next: Episode 215: How to Discern Truth from Lies in Grief (Part 1) Episode 186: Will I Ever Get Better? A Grieving Mom's Guide to Finding Hope in the Chaos Episode 187: How Do I Stop Pretending I'm Okay? The Hidden Messages Shaping Your Grief Grief Mentor Services 1:1 Grief Mentor Session A faith-centered hour to steady your heart, find peace and clarity, and leave with real tools and next steps. I pray over you before we even speak..
Emilie is a mother to three boys: two on earth, one in heaven. Her identical twin boys were born - one sleeping, one living - on July 1, 2024 via emergency c-section due to spontaneous Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS). She & her husband founded The Kaiden Paul Foundation to raise awareness, promote research & support families affected by TAPS. Emilie works as a pediatric neurosurgical PA-C & navigated going back to work at the hospital where her twins were born. If you have an insight on how to help, or to connect with a fellow TAPS mama, find Emily on Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/the_kaiden_paul_foundation/ FIND YOUR LOSS POSSE AT LOSSLINK.COM! Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE to help support the podcast All resources are located on KatherineLazar.com!*************************************NOTE: I am not a doctor or a therapist. The views of my guests are not always reflective of my own. I am just a real life loss mom describing her experiences with life after loss. These are my experiences, and I'm putting it out there so you feel less alone. Always do your own research and make informed decisions! For more REAL TALK about baby loss and grief, hit subscribe to be notified when another episode drops! Instagram @thekatherinelazar Youtube: @thekatherinelazarEmail: thekatherinelazar@gmail.comWebsite: www.katherinelazar.com Some helpful resources:https://countthekicks.org/https://www.measuretheplacenta.org/https://www.pushpregnancy.org/https://www.tommys.org/ Local to Atlanta:https://www.northsidepnl.com/
I feel like God arranges for certain guests to come on the podcast just when I need them most. On the day of this interview, I was particularly weepy, missing Andy even more than I normally do. I think God knew I needed someone to cry with, and Nancy was that someone. Nancy calls her son, Jacob, her Buddha baby, weighing 11 pounds 3 ounces at birth. The bib that they brought with them to the hospital would not even fit around his neck. However, that was not the only reason Jacob was called her Buddha Baby. Even as an infant, Jacob seemed to be a calming presence to everyone around him. Shortly after graduating from high school, Jacob was feeling a bit tired while working a new job. He noticed a lump that was quickly determined to be lymphoma. However, cancer did not slow him down. Jacob was determined to keep living his best life and even started school after his diagnosis. When beginning a new cancer treatment, it was expected that he would be in the hospital for a relatively short stay and then move on with life. In fact, at 19 years of age, Jacob would only let Nancy stay a certain number of hours each day so he could have some privacy. Suddenly, one evening after Nancy went back to her hotel, everything changed. In a matter of hours, Jacob suffered severe complications from the treatment, leading to brain swelling. Jacob, her amazing teenage Buddha, was gone. In the five months between Jacob's death and this interview, Nancy feels as if she has been living in a fog. She finds that she just wants to keep moving and walking constantly. At times, she wondered if she would even be able to make it back home. Tears still come daily. She has joined support groups, where she talks to other bereaved mothers who get it. She listens to my podcast during long walks. Nancy talks to Jacob and looks for signs of him in nature. So in today's episode, we talked about and cried for our boys. She understood my pain, and I understood hers, and after an hour of talking and crying, I knew that we both felt just a little bit better. So thank you, God, for sending Nancy just when we needed each other most.
“Even in the halls of the hospital, God showed me I was not alone.” I'm excited today to introduce you to my friend Julie South. In this first half of our conversation, Julie shares the story of her daughter Bellah—a joyful, compassionate little girl whose life was marked by both laughter and serious medical challenges. Julie talks about how her daughter Makaylah's health struggles prepared their family for medical adoption, how God led them to Bellah, and the joy Bellah brought to their home.We also discuss what it looked like to navigate countless hospital stays, major surgeries, and ultimately a five-organ transplant—and how God's presence was evident even in the darkest hospital hallways.Next week, in Part 2 of our conversation, Julie will share about her experience with PTSD after Bellah's homegoing and how she is now coming alongside other grieving parents to bring hope and encouragement. I know you will be blessed by what she has to share in both episodes! I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
When the world is loud and confusing, even the strongest believer can struggle to know what's real and what's not. But when you're grieving your child, that battle becomes even harder. Your mind and heart are already tender, your emotions raw, and every headline, opinion, or social media post can feel like another weight on top of your grief. That's why you need a filter—a faith-based way to sort through the noise and discern what's true, what's false, and what you can safely let go. In this first episode of a 3-part series, Teresa shares how to build a simple FAITH filter to protect your heart and mind after child loss. You'll learn how to: Guard your heart when the world's voices feel louder than God's Recognize what you're taking in without even realizing it Filter what you read, what you hear from others, and what you start to believe about God, your child, and your future Apply a practical acronym (FAITH) to test every thought and message you absorb Friend, discerning truth from lies is hard enough when life is going smoothly. In grief, it can feel nearly impossible. But you don't have to do it alone—and God has given us a way forward.
If despair has been weighing you down after child loss, you're not alone. There's a difference between being knocked down by despair and making it your permanent address — but how do you tell the difference? In this episode, Teresa opens up about what despair really is, why it feels so powerful, and where hope in Christ meets us in the middle of it.
"We often gain spiritual maturity through the hard times, the rough seasons of our lives.” Shantel Dudley is a mother to 18 children: four biological kids, three stepchildren, and 11 children with special medical needs from foster care. Shantel is no stranger to tough times. She has “rocked six children into heaven.” At her lowest point, Shantel lay in bed, afraid of what might happen next. She started watching videos of inspiring Christian women who faced the hardest losses, remained honest and faithful, and continued to be used by God. Shantel is one of these inspiring women herself! Listen to this mini retreat podcast and let your heart be set on fire with love of Christ. Explore God's call in your life, understand how He's always present and loving—even when you feel like you're not measuring up—and learn how to root your identity and life in Him. Be blessed with greater clarity about “who you are and whose you are.”
Grief and Laughter. At first glance, it may seem like these words could be considered polar opposites, but as we grieve, moments of laughter and joy can be a balm for the soul. The intense pain of grief oftentimes feels overwhelming. It is deep and dark, and it can feel like it will go on forever. I remember the first time that I laughed after Andy died. I felt tremendous guilt. Andy was dead. I felt like I should never laugh again. I should be sad every moment of every day. But that is not how we were made. We were created to be beings that felt joy and happiness. My mind wouldn't let me stay in the darkness continuously, and that is a good thing. Laughter can bring a tremendous release of emotions in much the same way that crying brings release. Most people do not feel guilty when they cry during grief, but laughter can cause guilt. My hope is to help people learn that laughter is amazing medicine for the soul and not something to avoid. This week's podcast is an edited release of the Livestream with Gwen. (If you tuned in and had a difficult time listening due to technical problems, I apologize. This version is much better!) Gwen shares her wisdom on the benefits of laughter and learning to reintroduce laughter into our lives while still navigating through the depths of our pain. We are certainly not suggesting that someone can simply let go of their grief and choose to be happy. (Many people have said those words to me, and frankly, that is simplistic and absurd.) We are asking you to seek out moments of laughter and joy. Seek out people in your life who make you feel good, even if it's only for a few hours or a few minutes. For me, the best people to laugh with are actually other bereaved parents. It feels safe to laugh with them, knowing that they will not judge me if I laugh and cry at the same time. Having those people and moments in your life may help make the pit of grief feel a little less dark and help you feel a little less alone.
Kim Allison returns to the While We're Waiting podcast to share more of her story—this time opening up about the loss of her husband, Herb, to suicide, and how God is redeeming the broken pieces of her life. She reflects on her two babies in Heaven, Benjamin and Jeremiah, the vibrant life of her son Timothy, who went to Heaven in 2021, the deep valleys of grief she has walked through, and the tools that have helped her trade sorrow for peace. This tender, yet hope-filled conversation points us to God's faithfulness, even in our darkest moments. Click HERE and HERE to listen to my previous conversation with Kim Allison in November of 2022.Kim's email address to request a copy of her book: allisontimes@yahoo.comEmail Jill at jill@whilewerewaiting.org by Monday, September 22, at 12:00 pm (CST) and share with her what was most meaningful to you about this episode to be entered in a drawing for one of Kim's books!Click HERE to order a copy of Timothy Allison: A Life Well-Lived on Amazon ... or to read it FREE on Kindle.Click HERE to order a copy of Desperate Trust: Clinging to God When your World Falls Apart which Kim wrote after the loss of her babies. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
Friend, does your soul feel restless after loss? Maybe your mind won't stop racing, your heart never stops aching, and no matter how tired you are, your body doesn't find rest. I remember feeling that way after Andrew died — like nothing could quiet the storm inside me. But Psalm 23 tells us something different: “He leads me beside still waters; He refreshes my soul.” What does that really mean when your life feels anything but peaceful? In this episode, we'll talk about: Why grief makes your soul feel so thirsty and unsettled What W. Phillip Keller, a real-life shepherd, teaches us about “still waters” The difference between the world's quick fixes and the refreshment Jesus offers How to let the Good Shepherd restore your soul right where you are If you've been desperate for peace, this conversation will remind you — the Shepherd knows exactly where to lead you.
Today's guest, Catherine, says that in many ways, she grieved for her daughter, Helen, not once but twice. The grieving began after she suffered complications during delivery, which led to seizures that began shortly after birth and multiple medical complications. Catherine grieved for the life she had hoped and dreamed of for Helen. Then, fourteen years later, Catherine's grief started fresh when Helen died unexpectedly in her sleep. Although Catherine says that she grieved Helen twice, Helen's 14 years were not years full of sadness and grief. They were joy-filled years. Catherine loved being Helen's hands and feet. She loved seeing her eyes light up and give big smiles. Catherine was a part of Helen, and Helen was a part of her. One day, when Helen was young, the two of them were watching TV, and Catherine saw the inspirational story of Team Hoyt, a father-son duo who competed in over 1,100 races, including numerous Ironman Triathlons. Son Rick suffered from cerebral palsy, but said that when racing in a specialized wheelchair with his dad, Dick, he felt freedom and joy. After Helen died, Catherine felt lost. She did not know what to do with herself without Helen being beside her. When asking her priest for advice, he answered that he didn't know what she should do, but that for many, participation in sport could be a good healing modality. That's when Catherine began to think once again about the inspirational story of the Hoyts. She knew that she couldn't physically swim, run, and bike with Helen, but perhaps she could still be with her emotionally. That's exactly what Catherine did. Her first triathlon was done almost secretively, with only her husband's knowledge. As she waited in the water of the lake at the beginning of the race, wondering if she had made a mistake in signing up, until the sun began to rise, and she felt Helen with her. Over the years, Catherine has continued to train and now races in an Ironman triathlon each year, following in the Hoyts' footsteps. She compares the training to her life, first as a mom of a special needs child and now as a bereaved mom. She chronicles her journey in her book, Finding My Stride: A Guide to Finding Power Raising a Child with Special Needs.
"The cradle is a temporary comfort—but the eternal comfort comes from the hope of the gospel.” ~Ashley OpligerIn this second half of my conversation with Ashley Opliger, she takes us back to the day of Bridget's birth and describes the tender moments she and her family shared with their tiny daughter, who weighed just 13 ounces. Ashley shares how her mother's handmade cradle gave Bridget dignity and allowed their family precious time to hold, cherish, and photograph her.What began as one simple cradle has now grown into Bridget's Cradles, a ministry that has donated more than 250,000 cradles and keepsakes to grieving families in over 1,600 hospitals across all 50 states. Ashley also talks about her book, Cradled in Hope, written as a conversation between two moms, and the scriptures that have grounded her heart through the losses of both her daughter and her dad.Ashley's story is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of unimaginable pain, God is faithful to bring comfort, purpose, and the hope of Heaven with our children.Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with Ashley.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Bridget's CradlesAshley Opliger's WebsiteCradled in Hope bookCradled in Hope PodcastWhile We're Waiting Retreats & ResourcesI would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
Our Healing Heroine series continues with Jodi, joined by Hero and Mindset Coach Katie Wee. Jodi opens up about her son, Pao, and her experience helping him navigate his mental health struggles. In this heartfelt conversation we discuss his passions, the community that loved him, and her journey of navigating life after his suicide learning to carry her grief while still honoring his story.Almost a year after Pao's passing, Jodi attended Katie's Happy Camp retreat, where she began to discover that healing isn't about “moving on,” but about finding small ways to move forward—sometimes just one moment at a time. From creating safe spaces at home to finding supportive spaces in your community, to healing modalities like meditation and grief counseling, Jodi reflects on what has helped her keep going in moments when it felt impossible.This conversation is a reminder that while grief has no ending, you can still find joy again. What You Will Learn [00:13:30] The transition process for teens after crisis care, including partial hospitalization and IOP [00:15:00] Creating a “safe house” with no sharps, weapons, or medications — and the social limits that can come with it for a teenager [00:16:30] Jodi's son's passions, including his for Japanese culture and anime [00:19:30] Why it's so difficult to distinguish crisis from “normal teenage” behavior [00:36:15] The importance of surrounding yourself with a community during grief [00:38:30] How hitting rock bottom pushed Jodi to try every possible healing practice [00:40:30] Taking the leap to attend Katie's Happy Camp as a major turning point in Jodi's healing [00:45:00] The power of Katie's guided meditation and why it was life-changing for Jodi [01:05:45] A grief truth: “Grief has a beginning. It has a middle, but it doesn't have an end.” Let's Connect!Follow The Healing Heroes on Instagram & LinkedIn.Jodi Aroma Wellness BoutiqueCode: HEROES20 for 20% Off (from now until Columbus Day Weekend)Katie WeeWebsite | InstagramChandler StroudWebsite | LinkedIn | InstagramMixing and editing provided by Next Day Podcast.
Overwhelmed by the Everyday After Child Loss Episode 211 — The Grief Mentor Podcast Why does everything feel so difficult after your child is no longer walking beside you? The laundry piles up. Dinner feels impossible. A trip to the store can leave you frozen in the aisle. Even simple decisions can feel unbearable. Friend, you are not alone. Grief changes everything—your body, your mind, your energy, your capacity. What once felt effortless now feels overwhelming. In today's episode, Teresa shares her own story of standing paralyzed in a grocery aisle after her son Andrew died, and together we'll talk about why ordinary life feels so heavy in grief—and the steps you can take to begin easing the overwhelm. In this episode: Why everyday tasks become so hard after loss How grief affects your body and your ability to function A personal story that may feel all too familiar in your own experience Practical steps to help lighten the daily weight of grief Gentle encouragement for the days when you can barely manage the basics Friend, if you are struggling to keep up with daily life right now, remember—there is nothing wrong with you. You are grieving. And God sees the weight you carry. ✨ Listen now and be reminded that you don't have to do this alone. Listen next Will I Ever Get Better? (Ep. 186) How Do I Stop Pretending I'm Okay? (Ep. 187) Why Seasons Trigger Grief—and What To Do About It (Ep. 209) How to Know if You're Healing or Just Hiding (Ep. 200) _________________________________________________________________ Grief Mentor Resources: Seven Free Ways The Grief Mentor Can Support You: Free Grief Survival Guide – The exact steps I used to keep me alive in that first year. Download your free copy at The Grief Mentor Website(scroll to the bottom of the page). Free Grief Masterclass – A two-day event packed with tools to help you navigate grief, available on my website. The Grief Mentor Website Need access to Day 2? Reach out, and I'll send it to you! Teresa's Grief Worship Playlist – Music is hard, I get it. But this playlist gave me courage for tomorrow and confidence for the future. Find it at the bottom of my homepage or reach out if you need the direct link. Weekly Newsletter – Encouragement straight to your inbox every Tuesday with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and links to both podcast episodes. Become A Grief Mentor Insider The Grief Mentor Blog – A new way to support you with faith-filled encouragement in your grief journey. The Grief Mentor Blog Monthly Support Group – A safe space where we say our children's names, share our stories, and find hope together. Join The Support Group The Grief Mentor Podcast-Released twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Going Deeper Going Deeper: 1-on-1 Grief Mentor Sessions Maybe you've realized that living without your child is harder than you ever imagined. If you need deeper support, come sit with me, friend. This isn't a casual meet-and-greet—it's an intentional, Spirit-led time where I pray over you before we even speak. If you're ready for that kind of support, book a Grief Mentor Session. XOXO Teresa-Your Grief Mentor
Ever find yourself standing in your kitchen, forgetting how to peel an orange? Or panic in a parking lot because you don't remember driving to the store, much less remember where you parked? You are not alone. In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Laura shares what it's like to experience a "mental breakdown" in […] The post 313: Rebuilding Your Life After Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.
Belief expansion. As they navigate life, all adults develop a core set of beliefs. When tragedy strikes, sometimes these core beliefs can be shaken. Some grieving people lose their sense of spirituality, while others gain a deeper, stronger faith after experiencing trauma. Dave was trained as a therapist, but nothing in his training prepared him for his 18-year-old daughter, Jeannine's cancer diagnosis and death. He grew up in the Christian church with some Christian traditions, but Dave's core values and beliefs were grounded in science. Dave realized in the months and years after Jeannine's death, he needed more. Science alone did not bring him the comfort or peace he needed. Dave says by pure serendipity, an interfaith minister named Patty entered his life. (I like to think this was by divine intervention, but I digress.) Dave had a spiritual experience with Patty that changed his life forever. Over the next ten years, Dave began exploring more and more ideas of spirituality with Patty and others. Dave said that he began to realize he did not have to abandon his core beliefs and values to adopt additional beliefs that aligned with and complemented his perspective. Dave now asks himself, "What can I add here that is going to help me get through this part of my life?" He truly feels that if he had continued in the old set of beliefs that he had when Jeannine died, he would not be where he is today. Dave said, "My journey demanded that I needed to embrace different perspectives about how I saw myself, how I saw the world, and how I saw my values if I was going to reengage in life again while still honoring my grief." Dave wrote a book about his experiences and conversations with Patty called, 'When the Psychology Professor Met the Minister," available on Amazon. He also now hosts a podcast, The Teaching Journeys (listen for me on an upcoming episode). On the podcast, Dave continues his own journey of belief expansion by learning from the stories of others who have experienced challenges in life. Dave says, "We are all students and teachers...let's learn from each other." I cannot think of a more amazing way to learn.
“Lament is slowing down to sit in the sadness and bring it to God.” ~Ashley OpligerThe importance of lament is just one of the topics I discussed with Ashley Opliger on the podcast this week. Ashley is a wife, mom, author, speaker, and the founder of Bridget's Cradles, a nonprofit ministry she started in memory of her daughter, Bridget. In this first half of our conversation, Ashley shares her daughter Bridget's story—the gift of her pregnancy, the joy of preparing for her arrival, and her heartbreaking loss at 24 weeks gestation. We talk about the depth of grief experienced after pregnancy and infant loss, the sting of unhelpful comments, and how lament has been a lifeline in Ashley's walk with God. She offers gentle encouragement for moms who may be struggling to pray, wrestling with doubts, or questioning God's goodness in the midst of their sorrow.This episode tenderly reminds us that every baby's life—no matter how brief—has eternal worth.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Bridget's CradlesAshley Opliger's WebsiteCradled in Hope bookCradled in Hope PodcastWhile We're Waiting Retreats & ResourcesI would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
Sisters in Loss Podcast: Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss, & Infertility Stories
Motherhood is what today's guest calls a “Rites of Passage” to the best hoods on Mother Earth. Ariane Oyere is a wife and mother of 7. She experience the lost of her 3rd born at 9 years old and then two miscarriages after his Sunset. Her babies she refers to as the Summer Solstice. In this episode, Oyere takes us back to her greatest obstacles in losing her Sunsets. She reframes child loss and miscarriage into sunset experiences. We also discuss lactation through bereavement and other spiritual modalities for healing. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage or loss and want to learn how to reframe your thinking into naming them sunset experiences. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter
In this sacred and soul-stirring episode of Mind Your Own Karma, I'm joined by the beautiful soul behind Children of the Cosmos, Lisa Winter, a self-taught medium who helps women and families connect with their children in spirit. After the loss of her seventh child in the womb, she experienced a spiritual awakening that shifted her grief into purpose. We talk about how she now channels these spirit baby connections, how it helps grieving families heal and evolve, and why validating every stage of grief is so important. She's on a mission to be the light for others that she once searched for herself-and to make this work accessible to all through donation-based offerings. Topics we explore in this episode:• Spirit babies and the mediumship connection.• Turning personal grief into spiritual service.• Why healing should never be a solo journey.• The power of validation through every stage of grief.• Her book, her purpose, and what she hopes families take away.Connect with Lisa Winter: https://www.lisawinter.co.uk/FIND MELISSA:MYOK on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mind_your_own_karmaMYOK on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindyourownkarmaMYOK on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@MindYourOwnKarmaSOMATIC HEALING JOURNEYS:https://www.somatichealingjourneys.com/#SpiritBabies #GriefHealing #SpiritualAwakening #Mediumship #SoulMastery #ChildLossSupport #SpiritualConnection #HealingAfterLoss #EnergyHealing #SelfTaughtMedium #BeyondTheVeil #HealingJourneys #EmotionalHealing #ValidateGrief #MindYourOwnKarma #SomaticHealingJourneys #DonationBasedHealing #ChildrenOfTheCosmos #PsychoSpiritualHealing #WomenSupportingWomen #LossAndLight #GriefSupport #HolisticHealing #SacredGriefWork
Near the end of today's interview, my guest, Miranda, said one of the most beautiful sentences that I have ever heard from a bereaved mom, especially one who is only 9 months into her grief journey. Miranda said, "Denver's death is going to be my reason, not my excuse - my reason to get up, my reason to do, my reason to survive, and my reason to love." Denver was a happy, healthy toddler who had just celebrated his first birthday when he died from accidental suffocation while he slept. His birthday theme just weeks before had been 'One Happy Dude,' so Miranda and her family used the decorations for his funeral. His funeral was full of yellow smiley faces and lots of bright colors. The family handed out smiley face pins at the funeral. Every summer, their hometown of Medicine Hat, Alberta, has a hot air balloon festival. This year, Miranda had the idea that one of the pilots might be able to take a picture of Denver up in a brightly colored hot air balloon during he festival. By the time the festival began, all thirty hot air balloons contained pictures of Denver. Many of the balloonists are international and continue to bring the picture of Denver with them as they fly all over the world. This month, Denver's picture is flying with a hot air balloon over Italy. I have shared many times about bringing Andy's teddy bear with us as we travel to help us have a symbol of Andy with us. Continuing to live and make happy memories without him is challenging. Living without Denver's smile and laugh each day is extremely difficult, yet Miranda continues to get up and try. She, too, often travels with a little teddy bear she can hug when the pain of missing Denver feels too great. Miranda's goal is to try to keep on living in the best way that she can - her reason to live and not her excuse. Each day still contains tears for Denver, but the tears no longer flow all day. She tries to look for smiley faces around her as she thinks of Denver's little picture flying in hot air balloons. Every time I see a hot air balloon, I will wonder if a little bit of Denver might be up there in its basket.
Teddy's mama, Elizabeth, started A Touch of Teddy 501(c)3 in 2023 in his memory, with a mission to send free teddy bear ornaments to pregnancy & infant loss families during the month of October. In this episode we discuss her passion for continuing her son's name by pouring her pain into helping other loss families.Find her and help support on Instagram: @atouchofteddyWebsite: https://atouchofteddy.org/Go to LOSSLINK.COM to find your local Loss Posse!*************************************NOTE: I am not a doctor or a therapist. The views of my guests are not always reflective of my own. I am just a real life loss mom describing her experiences with life after loss. These are my experiences, and I'm putting it out there so you feel less alone. Always do your own research and make informed decisions!For more REAL TALK about baby loss and grief, hit subscribe to be notified when another episode drops!Support the podcast and shop the store! At a Total Loss Shop Instagram @thekatherinelazar Youtube: @thekatherinelazarEmail: thekatherinelazar@gmail.comWebsite: www.katherinelazar.com Some helpful resources:https://countthekicks.org/https://www.measuretheplacenta.org/https://www.pushpregnancy.org/https://www.tommys.org/ Local to Atlanta:https://www.northsidepnl.com/
In this second half of our conversation, Kelly opens her heart about the unique challenges of losing a child to suicide and the long road of learning to live with deep grief. She reflects on the endless “what if” questions, the weight of not knowing, and the disorientation that comes with walking through such profound loss.Kelly also shares about the “waypoints” that marked her first year of grief—things like unknowing, providence, compassion, God's presence, gratitude, and even disbelief. Each one became a reminder that even in the valley of sorrow, God was there. Nearly three years later, Kelly testifies to the hope of the resurrection, the nearness of heaven, and the peace she finds in knowing Ernesto is safely with Jesus.This is a tender and faith-filled conversation about love, loss, and God's sustaining presence. Kelly's words will bring comfort to anyone who grieves and encouragement to all who are seeking hope beyond this broken world.Click HERE to listen to the first half of our conversation. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
Is God Absent in My Grief? Living with Unanswered Questions After Child Loss Have you ever whispered in the dark, “God, where are You?” When your child is no longer walking beside you, the silence can feel unbearable. The ache of unanswered questions presses in: Why my child? Why now? Why this way? In this episode, we step into the raw space of those questions and open Scripture to see how others—like Habakkuk, Job, and David—wrestled with God in their grief. You'll hear how God responded to them, and how His timing and presence speak into the silence we face today. Together we'll explore: Why unanswered questions don't mean unanswered prayers How God's timing differs from our urgency The hope hidden in Habakkuk's cry: “Lord, how long?” Why waiting on God is not abandonment but love You don't have to erase your questions to have faith. God is not absent—He is working in ways you may not see yet. _________________________________________________________________ Grief Mentor Resources: Seven Free Ways The Grief Mentor Can Support You: Free Grief Survival Guide – The exact steps I used to keep me alive in that first year. Download your free copy at The Grief Mentor Website(scroll to the bottom of the page). Free Grief Masterclass – A two-day event packed with tools to help you navigate grief, available on my website. The Grief Mentor Website Need access to Day 2? Reach out, and I'll send it to you! Teresa's Grief Worship Playlist – Music is hard, I get it. But this playlist gave me courage for tomorrow and confidence for the future. Find it at the bottom of my homepage or reach out if you need the direct link. Weekly Newsletter – Encouragement straight to your inbox every Tuesday with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and links to both podcast episodes. Become A Grief Mentor Insider The Grief Mentor Blog – A new way to support you with faith-filled encouragement in your grief journey. The Grief Mentor Blog Monthly Support Group – A safe space where we say our children's names, share our stories, and find hope together. Join The Support Group The Grief Mentor Podcast-Released twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Going Deeper Going Deeper: 1-on-1 Grief Mentor Sessions Maybe you've realized that living without your child is harder than you ever imagined. If you need deeper support, come sit with me, friend. This isn't a casual meet-and-greet—it's an intentional, Spirit-led time where I pray over you before we even speak. If you're ready for that kind of support, book a Grief Mentor Session. XOXO Teresa-Your Grief Mentor
In this episode of Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope), I talk with Carol Renfro, a mom just two years into this journey of child loss. Carol's only child, Jeff-Free (known as Free), died by suicide at the age of 33. Though her grief is still very fresh, she leans heavily on God and has […] The post 311: Bringing Our Pain to God After Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.
#206 // Surrendering to the Love That Remains: Holding On While Letting Go After Child Loss If your child is no longer walking beside you, the word surrender can feel impossible. As grieving moms, our arms were never meant to be empty, and yet we face the heartbreaking reality of placing our children back into God's hands when He calls them home. In today's episode, we open Scripture to Hannah's story in 1 Samuel. She longed for a child, prayed with tears, and when God finally answered, she made a vow to give her son back to Him. Her story doesn't erase our grief, but it does show us what it means to lean on God when everything in us wants to hold on tight. Together we'll explore what trust means for Hannah—and what trust means for us as grieving mothers who had to surrender without choice. In this episode you'll hear:
When today's guests, Andy and Kristen, lost their almost 2-year-old daughter due to complications after a seizure 2 years ago, their lives completely changed. There was life before Juniper died, and there was life after Juniper died. Before Juniper died, they had two young girls in daycare. Days after Juniper died, their older daughter, Macie, started public school, and Juniper was gone. There was no longer a need for a daycare. They were suddenly navigating a world where they were bereaved parents. It was as if they were suddenly living in an alternative universe. Years before Juniper's death, Andy had watched his aunt and uncle mourn their son after he died in a car accident. Andy now realized that he didn't have a clue about what they had gone through - the pain that they felt each day. Andy and Kristen found themselves looking to other bereaved parents for support. They joined their local Compassionate Friends chapter and became regular listeners of the podcast. I sometimes have doubts about continuing to produce the podcast each week. It is certainly a labor of love, but it does require a lot of work, and sometimes, when listener numbers falter or donations stop for several weeks at a time, I wonder if the time for the podcast has passed. Then, I hear beautiful words like I heard today, and I realize that even though most of my guests have never spoken to each other, we have created a community of grievers. Before ending my conversation with Andy and Kristen today, Andy shared, "For all of the other parents who have been on the podcast and are now listening, we have cried for your children. We have mourned for your children because we know how it feels. We have heard them." Kristen says that early on in their grief journey, they knew that someday, they would want to share Juniper's story on the podcast. Today, almost two years later, is that day. Now, Andy and Kristen can know that all around the world, other bereaved parents are truly hearing them. They are crying for Juniper and mourning her as well. And for me, that is all that truly matters.
Kelly Uribe joins me today to the story of her son Ernesto—a vibrant, adventurous, and deeply loved young man. She describes his big personality, his penchant for "people gathering", and the artistic eye that set him apart. She also shares about the spring when everything began to change, leading their family into a long and arduous journey through the mental health care system, and ultimately to Ernesto's death by suicide in the fall of 2022.With great transparency, Kelly recounts the countless appointments, medications, therapies, and programs they pursued in hopes of finding healing for Ernesto. She talks about the challenges of navigating insurance, the hidden isolation families often feel, and the exhaustion of trying to parent a teen in crisis while clinging to hope.This episode gives us a window into the realities many families face but few discuss openly. It's a story of deep love, heartbreaking struggle, and the assurance that God was there with them through each uncertain step.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
After the death of our child, one of the first--and most desperate--questions we ask God is "Why?" Why my child? Why didn't You stop it? Why couldn't it have been different? But what if "why" isn't the question that will bring us to a place of healing? What if there's another question that opens our […] The post 310: When "Why?" Can Become the Wrong Question After Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.
August 2025 Grief Roadmap Mentorship Is Now Open! Enrollment is open now through Sunday, August 17! The Grief Roadmap is a 12-week mentorship experience for grieving moms who are ready to receive faith-based teaching and process their pain in a Christ-centered community. If you're longing for support, direction, and healing—this is your invitation to join us now. The course begins Wednesday, August 21, and the doors will close Sunday night August 17th.
In this episode, my ATL Loss Mama friend, Lara, tells us about her sweet 1st son Malek who passed at 28 weeks. She has since had her 2nd son Sami who is turning 1. Lara has a rare autoimmune disorder which could possibly play a part in her pregnancies. However, there just isn't much research or information out there. We discuss warning signs, not knowing what they were, lack of information during pregnancy and what that means for subsequent ones. We hope this shines some light for anyone dealing with similar disease and wanting to bring home living babies. Find Lara on IG at @lara.aqel Find your loss posse on LossLink.com! *************************************NOTE: I am not a doctor or a therapist. The views of my guests are not always reflective of my own. I am just a real life loss mom describing her experiences with life after loss. These are my experiences, and I'm putting it out there so you feel less alone. Always do your own research and make informed decisions!For more REAL TALK about baby loss and grief, hit subscribe to be notified when another episode drops!Instagram @thekatherinelazar Youtube: @thekatherinelazarEmail: thekatherinelazar@gmail.comWebsite: www.katherinelazar.com Some helpful resources:https://countthekicks.org/https://www.measuretheplacenta.org/https://www.pushpregnancy.org/https://www.tommys.org/ Local to Atlanta:https://www.northsidepnl.com/
I have often said that different people grieve differently. Today's guest, Lori, adds a new twist to that statement. She lost two of her four sons almost 30 years apart from each other, and she is grieving so much differently now than she did the first time around, showing that the same person can grieve similar losses differently as well. The stories of Michael and Logan's deaths are far different. Michael died at age 2 of an aggressive type of cancer called neuroblastoma. He died after 9 months of treatment in his mother's arms at the hospital, which she says gave her time to say goodbye, but also forced her to watch him endure pain and suffering. Twenty-five-year-old Logan, on the other hand, died suddenly from an accidental drug overdose in his apartment. Logan was there one day and gone the next. Lori says that after losing Michael, she became an extremely compassionate person. She and her husband turned to each other for support. Loris describes him as her rock. She was very involved in church, turning to her faith to help ease the intense pain of loss. Over the years, Lori says that her biggest fear was that she might lose another one of her three remaining boys, but despite Logan's long history of mental health struggles, she did not ever think this would happen to them again. Then, 18 months ago, the unimaginable occurred - Logan died, too. After Michael died, compassion emerged. This time, however, fear and anger are the dominant emotions. She has trouble going out in public. Lori hasn't gone to church, and her faith feels broken. Her relationship with her husband has been damaged, and she has moved in with her two living sons, who are now her two rocks. Online support groups and podcasts have become her coping strategies. These vastly different responses may seem surprising. I know they were unexpected to Lori, but there is a lesson here. Grace. We need to give others and ourselves grace. We cannot control our feelings or our responses to grief. We need to feel our emotions, whatever they may be, and work through them. Through hard work, hope for the future may come again, for Lori and for us.
In last week's conversation with Chad and Ronni Fellers (listen HERE), we heard the story of their son Paxton—his adoption, his joy-filled spirit, and the day their lives changed forever. We also heard how grief has forced them to wrestle deeply with their faith and the goodness of God in the wake of profound loss.In today's episode, part two of our conversation, we focus on something many grieving hearts struggle to understand: lament. Chad and Ronni speak honestly about what it means to bring their pain, their questions, even their anger to God—not as a lack of faith, but as a vital expression of it. As Ronni puts it, “When you're wrestling with someone, you're face to face. And if I'm still wrestling with God, it means I haven't turned away.”We talk about how lament has shaped their grief, their marriage, their parenting, and their perspective on worship. Ronni shares the story behind her blog, The God Kiss, and the healing she's found in writing her wrestle.This conversation is a powerful reminder that God welcomes our sorrow—and meets us there with His presence. We'll pick up right where we left off last week.Click HERE to watch the Fellers' video testimony produced by Fellowship Bible Church. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
Ashley shares her journey through IVF, and the child loss of her son, Luke, due to unexpected heart surgery complications. She also opens up about grief, mental health, parenting after loss, and how her organization, Luke's Purpose, supports other loss families. Ashley reflects on life after loss, the importance of a strong support system, and finding joy and resilience while coping with loss.
If you've listened to this show for a while, you know who my daughter Phoebe is. If you don't, I'm happy to tell you about her next. Today is a very special day and I'll tell you how you can be part of it
Livestreams with Gwen are back! This week's livestream topic was to be about the fact that we are living in two worlds - longing to live in the past while dealing with our messy lives in the present. I talk about my struggles of missing Andy while trying to be the happy mother-of-the-groom at Valeriano's recent wedding. This conversation quickly morphed into another topic. Respite. First, is it OK to take a break from your grief? And second - where do I find respite when I need a break from my grief? My answers - First - YES! And Second - walks outside in the sunshine, riding in our boat, listening to birds while on my deck, listening to music, reading a good book, and playing board games with family or friends. The most important point is this. It is OK (and actually GOOD) to take a break from your grief. Many grieving parents feel like they need to feel their grief all the time. Every book they read is about grief. Every podcast they listen to is about grief. Days are filled with therapy and support groups. While all of these things are great, breaks are needed. Our bodies and minds cannot handle the constant pain of grief. I remember in those early days feeling like I needed to feel the pain constantly. If I started to laugh or even smile, I would remind myself that Andy was dead, and the smile would disappear. As the seven-year anniversary approaches next week, I feel the heaviness begin to worsen again, but I have learned that the best way to get through these difficult days is to take some time away from the pain as well. I will have intentional times with my family to talk about and remember Andy. There is an upcoming 5K race where 25 of my co-workers will be wearing Be Still bracelets as they run to support our local FitKids program. But there will also be time for me to have respite. I will spend time reading a book and listening to birds outside on my deck. I will play golf and go boating. Hopefully, I will be able to convince my family to play a board game with me. Finding this balance is what gives me the strength to continue on each day.
We're beginning a two-part series today with Chad and Ronni Fellers, who invite us into their story and help us understand what it means to grieve with both faith and honesty.In today's episode, Chad and Ronni share about their son Paxton, a young man his dad describes as “all gas, no brakes”—his adoption story, his bold and fearless personality, and the morning that marked the beginning of a life-altering journey. They talk about the six weeks spent in the hospital, the thousands of people who prayed, and the moment they realized God's healing would look different than they had hoped. Through it all, they speak openly about writhing in pain, wrestling with God, and slowly learning how to worship in the midst of deep grief.In this episode, we discuss:Paxton's adoption and early yearsHis vibrant, fearless personalityThe morning everything changedTheir six-week stay in the ICUThe role of faith during traumaHonest wrestling with God in griefWhy lament is a faithful response to sufferingThe recalibration of life after child lossThis episode is not about resolution—it's about invitation: to lament, to question, and to trust that even in the ache, we are not alone.Click HERE to watch the Fellers' video testimony produced by Fellowship Bible Church. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
In this heartfelt episode, we continue the conversation on how the death of our child impacts our relationship with God—specifically shifting from a transactional relationship to an intimate one built on trust, even when we don't understand Him. Laura gently challenges us to examine the ways our fast-paced, internet-driven culture may be shaping our spiritual […] The post 308: Our Relationship With God After Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.
Since becoming a bereaved parent, several phrases have irritated me. One of the most bothersome things people say to me is, 'You are so strong. I could never do what you do.' I feel like that suggests they don't think they need to help me—that I can handle everything on my own without assistance. When I first heard about today's guest, Cristi, and the 'Mentally STRONG' method she developed, I wasn't sure if I would like it. However, because Cristi lost not just one, but three children, I thought I should give it a try. After our conversation, all my doubts melted away. When Cristi talks about being mentally strong, she doesn't mean being a resilient hero doing everything alone. Instead, Cristi teaches people to face their grief and sorrow directly, in community with therapists and other grieving individuals. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Cristi believed in cognitive behavioral therapy and the power of positive thinking. But after losing her adoptive son Johnny to drowning and seeing her son Reggie—and later daughter, Miah, and husband, Bundy—suffer from DRPLA, a terrible degenerative disease, Cristi realized that simply thinking positively was not very helpful for those grieving. We can't just 'look on the bright side' and think positive thoughts after losing our children. That isn't realistic or natural. Cristi understands this too well. She writes, "Grief can feel overwhelming, like a weight that never lifts. It consumes your thoughts, leaves you feeling lost, and makes it hard to get through the day. It's an unpredictable journey that pulls at your heart. But in these moments of deep sorrow, there is space to feel, process, and find a path toward healing." The Mentally STRONG method isn't a quick fix for deep grief, but it can help you face and work through your grief. It can help you find purpose in life again. If Cristi can find purpose and experience joy after losing Johnny, Reggie, Miah, and Bundy, so can we. For more information and access to her book and documentary, visit mentallystrong.com.
As bereaved parents, one of the most pressing questions we grapple with is this: How do I help my surviving children? We want to support them well, but sometimes we're met with silence or withdrawal. It can feel like we're walking blind through their grief. That's why I'm so honored—and genuinely excited—to share this episode with you today.In this important conversation, I'm joined by Bobby and Gabby, a father-in-law and daughter-in-law who have each experienced the loss of not just one, but two siblings. With honesty, faith, and compassion, they invite us into their stories—stories marked by sudden loss, complicated family dynamics, delayed grief, and eventually, renewed hope.Together, Bobby and Gabby talk about:Why surviving siblings may struggle to talk to their parentsHow grief changes over time, especially as siblings matureThe impact of loss on their relationships with their parentsHow their own faith has been both tested and strengthenedPractical ways parents can support their children through sibling lossThey also share about the ministry they co-lead: Sibling Lifeline, a retreat-based community that brings adult grieving siblings together for connection, healing, and hope. The work they're doing is so needed—and I believe you'll finish this episode feeling both better equipped and more hopeful as a parent.Whether you're longing to understand your child's grief, or you've experienced sibling loss yourself, this conversation will speak to your heart. Links from the Episode:Sibling Lifeline WebsiteSibling Lifeline on FacebookSibling Lifeline on InstagramI would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.) ** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
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