Podcasts about child loss

There is one question that this week's guest, Nicole (nicolebgebhardt.com), asks each client when she first starts seeing them as a life coach.   What are three things you love about yourself?  How did you answer this question? Was it difficult? Did you even come up with three things? I have to admit something. I had a hard time. As a mom, I can think of three things I love about my kids. As a wife, I can easily name three things I love above my husband, but when asked to look inward like this, I falter.  Nicole says that 85% of her clients have the same struggle. They can't name even one thing, let alone three. There was a time when Nicole had these same feelings. After suffering through two miscarriages and the death of her 9-week-old son, Samuel, from SIDS, she didn't feel like she deserved to be happy. Nicole turned to alcohol, and when her husband began abusing her, she felt as if she 'deserved' the abuse.  Even after having three healthy children, leaving her first husband, and meeting her 'Prince Charming', she still didn't love herself. Five and a half years ago, she decided to take her own life. After surviving that suicide attempt, her outlook on life changed. She chose to become clean and sober and focus on loving herself first. This certainly was not easy, but when talking to Nicole today, I can say that she, quite simply, radiates joy. Despite her past, Nicole does not let these experiences define her. Nicole realizes that she is not a victim. She is a survivor, and that is amazing. She is resilient, she is strong, and she is awesome.  Think about your own life for a minute. Think of all that you have gone through. Likely, if you are reading this, your child died. Perhaps you have suffered through abuse and addiction or tried to help a loved one through their struggles. Maybe you have lost other loved ones or your job, marriage, or home. Despite all of these things and more, you get up every day. You are strong and resilient. We all are.  Can I name three things I love about myself? Yes, I can. And so can you.

Rachel Wojo is my guest once again, and today we shift from her story of parenting her daughter Taylor through a terminal illness to the deeper spiritual lessons that followed her death—lessons about grief, surrender, and the hard, holy work of prayer when God's answer is “no.”Rachel shares the story behind her latest book, Desperate Prayers, and talks honestly about wrestling with God, receiving painful judgment from others, and redefining what healing really means. We also explore how prayer connects us to God in the midst of spiritual warfare and how—even when words fail—God hears the cries of our hearts.Rachel's story offers not only honest insight but deep encouragement for those walking through grief. Whether you're wrestling with God, struggling to pray, or simply trying to make it through the day, I believe her words will meet you where you are.Listen to the first half of our conversation HERE.  Connect with Rachel:

FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B's book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebookLosing a child is a crippling and unimaginable pain—one that shakes your ENTIRE world and belief system. In this Episode, I share my raw and personal journey through grief, the difference between grief and trauma, why it's important to separate the two and what truly helped me keep going after loss. If you're struggling to process your own grief or searching for a way forward, you are not alone.You can also watch the unfiltered footage of my early days after losing my third child—where grief was at its rawest. And if you're ready for deeper support, I invite you to join my Grief Intensive course, where I walk alongside you through the hardest parts of this journey.➡️ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhbzZf3gqt8BzW6rJOr9cyRPtfiZ6v-LY➡️ http://mentallystrong.com/start-your-grief-journey/Grief is overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone.#PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong 

Episode 300. It's hard to wrap my head around a number that big. Hundreds of beautiful stories. Thousands of listeners. Later this summer, we will reach another milestone: the 7th anniversary of Andy's death—14 years of having Andy here on Earth and 7 years of Andy in heaven. Another concept that is so difficult to comprehend. In today's episode, Gwen plays host and interviews Eric and me as we discuss the podcast and its growth over the past six years. The addition of our videographer, Jen, has been an incredible blessing as she has created beautiful video clips to share on Instagram and Facebook (@alwaysandysmom). These videos have helped us all see the featured children in real life, so to speak. Over the next few days, you will be able to see Andy featured for the first time! We also talked about our recent family trip. Vacations can be difficult after losing a child. Part of us may feel like we don't want to make new, wonderful memories without our loved one. Certainly, there were moments of sadness and tears as we traveled, thinking of Andy and knowing how much he would have loved it. We made a point of taking Andy's teddy bear, Herky, along on the trip and capturing pictures with him every single day. Herky had his special pouch in the backpack and made appearances at St. Peter's Square, the canals of Venice, and the Acropolis. Our 'Herky pictures' certainly did not replace having Andy with us, but they gave us all a moment to think about him and feel like a tiny bit of him was there. As we start our next 100 episodes, I look forward to seeing what new changes lie ahead. The first addition will be the opportunity to share your child on the podcast in a unique way. While some people want to share their child on an episode, others may never feel ready for such a step. I was inspired by Michael's Madre, who offered to sponsor the full cost of her episode, which is $125. Now, I invite others to do the same. If you feel called to sponsor all (or part of) an episode in your child's name, visit the Donate Page on andysmom.com, and their name will be announced in the introduction. Thank you all so much for the love and support you have shown me. The podcast has blessed me in more ways than I could have ever realized. I cannot imagine what my life would be like today without it.

Emmy is the mother of Layla, who was stillborn at 39 weeks in November 2022. She finds comfort and copes with her pain through taking care of her home and helping others find healing as well. Although it feels like it in the beginning, she believes baby loss is not the end. The best thing we can do for our sweet babies and the greatest way we can honor them is to learn to heal, grow, love and laugh again. To follow along her journey of hope, follow her on Instagram @emmysmaz and check out her podcast entitled “Beyond the Pain: Heart and Home Healing After Loss" Thank you to LOSSLINK.COM, check it out now to find your loss posse of mamas who get it.  *************************************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/

In this first half of our two-part conversation, author and speaker Rachel Wojo shares her journey with her daughter Taylor, who was diagnosed with a rare degenerative condition.  Rachel opens up about the challenges and the joys of parenting a special needs child, walking through divorce and disappointment, and holding onto her faith as Taylor's health declined, ultimately leading to her homegoing at the age of 22 in 2019.  Rachel is the author of Desperate Prayers and a multitude of other helpful books and resources related to Bible study and prayer.  She also hosts an excellent weekly podcast called Untangling Prayer with Rachel Wojo.  In this episode:Parenting a child with a terminal illnessThe joys and challenges of special needs caregivingGod's grace in the midst of grief and lossThe miracle of Taylor's adoption before her homegoingConnect with Rachel:Click HERE to visit her website where you can find ALL her resources!Click HERE to connect with her podcast! Click HERE to find all of her resources on Amazon!  Next week:In next week's episode, we'll continue our conversation as Rachel shares how her experiences led to her latest book, Desperate Prayers. We'll talk about what it means to pray when words are hard to find, how to define healing from an eternal perspective, and how to move beyond survival mode after child loss.You won't want to miss the wisdom and hope Rachel brings in Part Two. We hope you'll join us then!  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I don't even know who I am anymore”? The woman you were before—the one who laughed, planned, and lived with purpose—feels like a stranger now. And when grief has unraveled the person you used to be… where do you even begin? In this episode, we're exploring the three identity shifts grieving moms face: Who you were before grief Who you are right now Who you're becoming in Christ

In today's episode you will be hearing from Laura's husband, Dave, along with a long-time friend, Matt Poelman, who lost his son, Eric, while serving in the military in Iraq. Some of the things discussed were: The emotions Matt felt How he and his wife, Sally, dealt with the death of their son differently How […] The post 300: Two Dads Talk about Child Loss and Father's Day appeared first on GPS Hope.

"I'm good." This was a common response that Mary Beth's son, Michael, used when he didn't want to do something or go somewhere. "Michael, do you want to come with me?" "I'm good." It almost became a bit of a family joke. After Michael died 18 months ago at 21 years of age, his brother, a talented artist, wrote a cartoon depicting Michael in heaven. In the cartoon, his brother was longing to have Michael back with them, here on earth, with their family, so he called heaven. When Jesus answered the phone, he was asked if he could send Michael back home. Jesus responded, "Let me go ask him." Michael's response was typical Michael - "I'm good." The problem, of course, is that although Mary Beth is sure that Michael is 'good', Mary Beth is not. She and their entire family miss Michael terribly. Michael is the second of five sons in an incredibly close family. Although Michael had a long history of anxiety struggles, his family thought he was great. He seemed happy and was completing his college education with a degree in biology. He was a brilliant and talented young man with a bright future ahead of him.  Unbeknownst to his family, however, Michael was suffering inside. Mary Beth was shocked when she found him dead in the room where he had been living at his grandparents' house, and more shocked when they learned that he had taken his own life. After searching his computer, they found an unsent email where he described having homicidal and suicidal thoughts. He was suffering a mental breakdown and shared that he feared that he might kill other people. In that moment, he seemed to feel like the way to protect others was to die himself. Mary Beth did not know how she could go on living after losing Michael, but day by day, she is doing just that. Each day is a challenge, but Mary Beth continues to get up, go to work, and parent their four living boys. Does she expect to cry daily? Of course she does. Can she honestly answer, 'I'm good' when she is asked? Definitely not. But, until that day comes, Mary Beth clings to the knowledge that Michael is most certainly ‘good' up in heaven.

In this episode, we discuss the brain science & spiritual side of grief with Leigh-Ann Larson.Connect with Leigh-Ann:WebsiteGrief CommunityHer RetreatReady to reclaim your body, your power, and your peace? Start here: 1.

I'm back and with a mini "rebrand"...At a Total Loss is now Living the Loss Life because well, that's what I'm doing every single day and I'm here to share it with you.When I first hit record, I was drowning. I had just lost Brody only 4 months prior. I was raw, wrecked, and trying to survive the total devastation of stillbirth. That title—At a Total Loss—fit where I was. But grief doesn't stay in one place...and neither do we.In losing him, I've also gained so much:Perspective. Purpose. A community. A deeper love. A different version of myself.So it's time, for the podcast to evolve, too.In this episode I fill you in on what's been happening since I took a mini break (whoops) and what's happening next. I had a wild experience in Albania and I finally tell Wolfy's birth story since he turns TWO YEARS OLD on June 6th! holy moly. All of this is to let you know you're not alone no matter what stage you're in. Thank you for staying on this path with me. We're still grieving. We're still healing. But now we're living even though we've lost.

In this second half of our two-part conversation, Austin DeArmond returns to the mic to continue exploring some of the most common myths and misunderstandings people have about heaven—especially those that surface in grief and longing after child loss. Austin brings deep scriptural knowledge and a tender heart shaped by personal experience as a bereaved dad himself.Together, we dive into thought-provoking questions like:Do our loved ones in heaven know what's happening on earth?Will our children still be children when we see them again?Is heaven really "up in the clouds"?Will everyone receive the same rewards in eternity?What is the “new earth,” and how does it differ from heaven as we typically imagine it?Will we grow, learn, and discover new things in heaven?Austin also offers biblical encouragement for bereaved parents, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ and the beautiful truth that the best is yet to come.Be Encouraged:   Heaven is not just consolation—it's compensation. As Austin shares, our sorrows will not only be ended but fully mended in God's presence. If you've ever longed to understand more about where your child is now and what lies ahead for you, this conversation is for you.Click HERE to listen to the first half of my "Questions About Heaven" conversation with Austin!  Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin and Valerie DeArmond in which they share the full story of their son Gabriel.  Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin regarding myths and cliches about grief.  Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.  Click HERE to get a copy of Heaven by Randy Alcorn.  Also available on Amazon.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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 text+++ Check out the new Podcast with Tori Press: What the Mental Health?! https://bit.ly/PodWTMH +++HOW 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's guest on the How to Deal with Grief and Trauma podcast is Colin Campbell. I first heard about Colin through a former guest who was deeply moved by an article he had written. Her words piqued my curiosity, and when I finally read Colin's piece, I immediately understood why—it was powerful, honest, and deeply human. We later crossed paths through mutual colleagues, and it became clear that we shared not just a passion for helping others navigate grief, but also the personal experience of child loss. That shared bond drew me to connect with him more personally, and I knew I wanted to invite him onto the podcast. Colin brings a heartfelt and courageous voice to conversations around grief, and I'm honoured to have him here today to share his story, insights, and the wisdom he's gained on his journey through unimaginable loss.About this week's guestColin Campbell is a writer and director for theatre and film. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Seraglio, a short film he wrote and directed with his lovely and talented wife, Gail Lerner. He has taught Theatre and/or Filmmaking at Chapman University, Loyola Marymount University, Cal Poly Pomona University, and to incarcerated youth. His book, Finding the Words: Working Through Profound Loss with Hope and Purpose, was published by Penguin Random House in 2023. He wrote and performs, Grief: A One Man ShitShow which premiered at the Hollywood Fringe Festival and ran for a month at New York's Theatre Row. His writing has appeared in The Atlantic, The Los Angeles Times, and ModernLoss.com. Most recently, he was a keynote speaker at The Compassionate Friends' National Conference.Website: colincampbellauthor.comIG: @colincampbellwriter 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

Summer doesn't feel the same when your child is no longer by your side. Family vacations, cookouts, and beach days can become painful reminders of what you've lost. In this episode, Teresa shares 5 honest, faith-filled steps to help grieving moms navigate vacation season with grace, courage, and sacred intention. Whether you're facing your first summer or your fifth, this episode will help you breathe again, prepare for what's ahead, and find moments of peace that gently hold your sorrow.

I have long loved Faith's Lodge and, since the early days of the podcast, hoped that someday, I might be able to talk with someone from that wonderful organization. Now, that wish became a reality. Today's guest, Kelly, is not a bereaved mom herself, but she was at the side of her sister when she lost her 12-year-old son, Carter, almost 15 years ago. As I listened to Kelly, I was struck by how instinctively she did so much 'right' after Carter died. Logistically, she handled so much for her sister in those first days and weeks, but perhaps even more importantly, she kept Carter a part of their everyday lives in the months and years that followed. When holidays came, Kelly made sure that Carter was remembered. Kelly continued to ask for parenting advice from her older sister, asking, "When this happened to Carter, what did you do?" Shortly after Carter died, Kelly's sister's family attended a retreat at Faith's Lodge. Her sister shared that for the first time, she felt like she could fully be herself and not have to wear a mask and try to hide. Then, 13 years ago, while golfing at a charity golf event, Kelly was asked if she might consider leaving her job and becoming the executive director of a non-profit organization. She had no interest in leaving her job, but politely asked the name of the organization - Faith's Lodge. The tears came, and then, long hours of considering a career change. With her sister's blessing, Kelly started the job that has since become her passion. Under Kelly's guidance, the organization expanded to be even more than an amazing year-round retreat center. They developed a program for employers called 'Hope Works Here' to give businesses tools to help bereaved parents return to work successfully. This month, more big changes came to Faith's Lodge as they undergo a rebranding in order to more clearly define their mission and purpose. Their new name is the Child Loss Foundation. They still offer their incredible retreats at Faith's Lodge (although they hope to spread to additional locations). They still offer resources for employers, now called Child Loss at Work. Additionally, the organization merged with another Minnesota non-profit formerly called The BeliEve Foundation, in order to expand their mission of offering immediate financial support for newly bereaved families. I have long known that Faith's Lodge was a magical place, but now, I can't wait to see how many more lives they will be able to touch as they grow and expand.

My friend, Austin DeArmond, returns to the podcast today to explore some of the most common myths and misconceptions people have about Heaven. As a bereaved Dad, Bible translation consultant, and faithful follower of Christ, Austin brings both personal insight and biblical depth to this important discussion.We talk about questions many of us have wrestled with: Will Heaven be boring? Do we become angels? Will we recognize our loved ones? Is there time in Heaven? What happens to us when we die? With wisdom and grace, Austin walks us through what scripture really says—and doesn't say—about our eternal home, helping us ground our hope in truth rather than cultural myths.Whether you're a bereaved parent or simply someone simply curious about what comes after this life, I believe our conversation will bring comfort and encouragement.Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin and Valerie DeArmond in which they share the full story of their son Gabriel.  Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin regarding myths and cliches about grief.  Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.  Click HERE to get a copy of Heaven by Randy Alcorn.  Also available on Amazon.Don't Miss Next Week: Be sure to join us again next week as we continue this discussion with Austin. In Part Two, we'll tackle more cultural myths about heaven and dig deeper into what the Bible reveals about our future hope.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Why Your First Thought Matters More Than You Think Grief often crashes in the moment you wake up—before your feet even hit the floor. But what if your first thought could become a place of peace, not panic? What if there was one small habit that could change the way you face every hard day? In this powerful and personal episode, Teresa shares the morning practice that shaped her own healing after losing her son—and how it can anchor your heart too. This isn't about checking a box or being “strong in faith.” It's about gaining tools to use before your day begins.

Last week Laura started looking at Psalm 23:1-2 through the eyes of child loss. She only got through the first few words, "The Lord is my Shepherd..." In this week's episode, she finishes out the verse which says, "...I shall not want." Listen in as Laura talks about how that may mean something different than […] The post 298: Psalm 23:1 Through the Eyes of Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.

What do you do when forgiveness feels like betrayal? When someone's reckless actions shattered your world… When the person you can't forgive is yourself… Forgiveness after the death of your child isn't a quick fix or a cliché—it's sacred, gut-wrenching work. And in today's episode, Teresa shares honestly what it really looks like to walk this road, not because it's easy, but because your soul is worth it.

Some music and sounds in this podcast by @itslucakoala In this BRAND NEW podcast episode — Brittany invites on to chat with her, Kate Safris. She is one of the original founders of ‘Healthy Birthday INC'. She proudly brings awareness to expecting families about the importance of monitoring fetal movement. In this 4 part May podcast series Kate and Brittany deep dive into all things involving child loss, rainbow babies,  the importance of tracking fetal movement….and more. Brittany and Kate will discuss in full detail the @countthekicksus app and how it can help possibly prevent fetal demise. Please learn more about ‘COUNT THE KICKS' and you can download the FREE app today to track your babies movement while in utero.  Please enjoy episode 1 of a 4 part spring series.  Discussed in this episode — Kate Safris discusses where she was born and raised — She has known her husband since birth! - fun fact is discussed — Britt and Kate lightly discuss the topic of overcoming child loss — What its like to ‘want more kids' even after a tragic loss —  Health care and self advocating while pregnant and beyond — And much more!   AG1: NEXT GEN JUST LAUNCHED! So subscribe today to try the Next Gen of AG1! If you use my link, you'll also get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. So make sure to check out DrinkAG1.com/bosbabes to get started with AG1's Next Gen and notice the benefits for yourself.   Get 15% OFF of your FULL Manscaped order by going to manscaped.com and using my code BRITTANY at checkout For all of your furniture needs please be sure to check out Highpoint Furniture Sales. They are fully family owned and operated with 1 great location in the state of North Carolina— visit their showroom In High Point or shop their website highpointfurnituresales.com — they offer white glove delivery and set up services nationwide! For your triad area realty needs please get in touch with Amy Cromer of ‘Cromer Property Group'. Visit her website today for more information www.cromerpropertygroup.com Luca Koala FREE music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5kepJgtnHDGsvYiLlKXQ03?si=wZKjnpjvTXSXz-qnBOkX7w

As we continue our conversation from the previous episode, Josh and Nicole Kingsbury open up about how they've walked through grief as a couple after the loss of their daughter, Amber, to suicide in 2021. They share the early commitment they made to protect their marriage amidst the pain and the ways they've learned to communicate through their differing grief styles.We also discuss the "before and after" of child loss, hear some of their favorite scriptures, talk about the importance of lament in the grief journey, and hear how doing ministry together has been a big part of their healing process.  I believe you'll be blessed by listening in!  Missed the first half of our conversation?  Listen HERE.  To learn more about Operation Christmas Child or to get involved, click HERE.  To visit The Corner Room website (scripture set to music), click HERE.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Monica Anderson — founder of Remembering Cherubs, a powerful nonprofit organization that supports families through miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. After her own experience with infant loss, Monica was moved to transform her personal grief into a mission to help others. She founded Remembering Cherubs to provide community, comfort, and resources to grieving parents and family members—ensuring no one has to walk through loss alone. With deep compassion and courage, Monica is changing the conversation around pregnancy and infant loss and offering hope to families across the country. In this episode, you'll hear:

Have you ever been singing in church when one lyric sends you spiraling back into the worst day of your life? Or you're walking through the grocery store when your child's favorite ice cream cracks open a wave of grief that leaves you breathless? Friend, those moments don't have to own you. In today's episode, Teresa shares the neuroscience behind grief triggers, the biblical story of Peter's restoration, and a gentle, research-backed method for replacing painful memories with ones that bring peace. You'll learn why your body responds the way it does—and what to do when it feels like your mind is stuck on replay. Key Takeaways: The Body's Alarm – why your brain stores trauma through sensory triggers Rewire vs. Repeat – what happens if painful memories aren't replaced The Scene Swap – how recalling one good moment can shift everything Truth That Sticks – why pairing memory with scripture brings lasting peace MEMORIAL DAY SALE: DISCOUNTED GRIEF MENTOR SESSION

Content Warning: #2 - Child Loss and #3 - Abortion This week Meghan and Melisa are giving advice on: Lying partner Honoring your friend's child Support during an abortion Don't Blame Them - Finish work quickly Update - Regretting not moving for college Buy Our Merch ⁠⁠⁠https://crowdmade.com/collections/sister-sign⁠⁠⁠ Call In - 310-694-0976 (3 minutes or less) Write In - ⁠⁠⁠meghanpodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ (300 words or less) Follow Us! ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/meghanandmelisa⁠⁠⁠ @meghanrienks ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/meghanrienks⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/meghanrienks⁠⁠⁠ @sheisnotmelissa ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/sheisnotmelissa⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/diamondmprint.productions⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Josh and Nicole Kingsbury as they shared the beautiful and heartbreaking story of their daughter Amber. A vibrant, creative, and compassionate young girl who loved Jesus, Amber touched the lives of everyone around her. Josh and Nicole reflect on her love for art, her deep bond with her brother, and her passion for helping others.They also discuss the subtle changes they noticed as Amber entered her teenage years — changes that were very typical for an adolescent girl. In a moment that would forever alter their lives, Amber made a choice that left her parents grappling with shock, grief, and countless unanswered questions.Josh and Nicole reflect on the unexpectedness of Amber's death, the unanswerable questions they've had to lay at the feet of Jesus, and how they are learning to wrestle in the waiting.Be sure to come back for part two next week, where Josh and Nicole delve deeper into their grief journey, how they are navigating life after loss, and the ways they are finding hope amidst the heartache.Click HERE to learn more about our FREE While We're Waiting Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide, currently available in Arkansas, Maryland, Illinois, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Today's guest has a very traumatic story. Before ending his own life, Jacke's son, Randy, attempted to kill his wife, his two young children and his father-in-law. It is a riveting story (within the horrible tragedy) that ends with hope and encouragement. However, Laura fully understands there may be some triggers, as Jacke shares some […] The post 296: Getting Past the Trauma of Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.

Grief doesn't just impact your heart—it touches every relationship you have. And when you've lost a child, the need to protect your peace becomes essential. In today's episode, Teresa shares the truth about setting boundaries after child loss—from managing your closest relationships to protecting yourself from painful comments on the outside. You'll learn why boundaries are sacred, how to express what you need, and how faith-filled clarity can change your healing journey. This isn't about shutting people out. It's about honoring your grief and letting others know how to love you well. 3 Key Takeaways:

From the first pages of reading the memoir written by today's guest, Sally McQuillen, I was quite honestly hooked. 'Reaching for Beautiful: A Memoir of Loving and Losing a Wild Child' is an absolutely beautiful story that Sally wrote after losing her 21-year-old son, Christopher, in a boating accident shortly after Christmas. Sally shares that as she raised Christopher, she often found herself worrying about him. Christopher is described as a 'wild child' who suffered from addiction and loved to take risks. He lived every part of his life in a big way. Parenting Christopher was truly a roller coaster ride for Sally and her husband.  After losing Christopher, Sally's life was forever changed. She says that one of the greatest lessons that she learned both from raising and losing Christopher was to learn to let go of fear and instead cling to love. Sally had to "make losing Christopher a permission slip to be compassionate" with herself. Over the next months and years, Sally was challenged to let go of the fear, guilt, and regret in order to forgive herself and move forward with life. This was certainly not a quick process. Sally says it took her seven years to feel a sense of normalcy in her life after Christopher died. After Jen, my Instagram and Facebook videographer, watched the video of today's interview, she wrote to me that she felt so comforted when she heard Sally say that it took that long to feel 'normal' again. This is the biggest takeaway from this episode. There is no timeline for grief. Everyone's journey is their own. Some people appear to move faster and some slower, but it is not right or wrong. We need to take that lesson from Sally and give ourselves 'permission slips' when we think about our grief.  This brings me back to Sally's beautiful memoir. I found myself feeling so much love as I read this story, whether it was reading about Christopher's struggles in life or about Sally's grief after he died. The book is described as 'a luminous story of how love triumphs over pain, love transcends fear, and love never dies.' I couldn't agree more. Thank you, Sally.

Welcome to Episode #254, which is a continuation of my conversation with Michael and Peggy Mages. In our last episode, we were introduced to their son Mason—a bold, kindhearted, and faith-filled young man—and the tragic day they lost him in a drowning incident.In this second half, Michael and Peggy open up about life in the aftermath of loss. They share advice for newly bereaved parents, reflect on how grief has changed their marriage, their parenting, and their walk with the Lord, and offer insight into what it means to persevere in faith when the pain doesn't go away. From grief brain and “Mason Days” to sacred circles and heavenly hope, their words are honest, practical, and rooted in Scripture.Whether you are fresh on the road of grief or walking beside someone who is, this episode is full of grace and truth for the journey.  We'll pick up right where we left off last week.  Missed the first half of our conversation?  Click HERE to listen!  To register for our FREE While We're Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents scheduled for October 3-5, 2025, in Hesston Kansas, led by Michael and Peggy Mages, click HERE.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Most people think that hope is wishful thinking, as in, "I hope they win this game." However, that kind of hope is not what will get us out of the suffocating darkness of grief after the death of our child. In today's episode, Laura revisits true hope - the hope that God gives. This is […] The post 295: What is Hope? appeared first on GPS Hope.

Grief after child loss is more than a moment—it's a world we now live in. And unless you've walked it, it's hard to understand the layers that come with it. In Episode 174, Teresa pulls back the curtain on what grieving parents carry every single day: the mental anguish, the silent triggers, the feeling of living in two worlds—the one before and the one after. This isn't just about sadness. It's about the fight for identity, the moments of guilt and loneliness, the fear of forgetting and the ache of remembering. But there is hope. There is companionship in the suffering. And there is One who walks with you in it all. 3 Key Takeaways:

Today's guest, Michelle, gave me some words of wisdom from her therapist that I will remember forever. Recently, Michelle had an appointment with her counselor and was talking about how her crying was 'not pretty'. The therapist agreed, saying, "No. Crying is not pretty, but when you are crying tears over the loss of your daughter, the tears are beautiful." This makes me think so much about grief in general. I have often described myself over the years as a 'hot mess'. April and August are my 'hot mess' months, April because of Andy's birthday on the 21st, and August due to the anniversary of his death. Additionally, this past month was extra difficult due to having the second Andy Larson Memorial Concert. For Michelle, April is an extremely challenging month as well. Her daughter Scarlett's birthday is on April 22nd, and she died after a long cancer journey two days before her 16th birthday on April 20th, 2022. As we spoke, nearly two weeks before these big days in our lives, we were both a 'hot mess', but I wonder now if that truly is the ugly mess that I always envisioned. I remember a few months after Andy died when I first heard the term 'lament' used with my grief. I learned that what I called the 'bad' cry or the 'ugly' cry when I completely lost control and would fall into a weeping heap on the floor, was actually when I was experiencing lament. Learning the term 'lament' helped me feel so much better about showing my emotions in that way. Lament is healthy. Lament is spiritual. Lament has a purpose and helps in our healing. I feel like this conversation with Michelle gave me a similar epiphany. Yes - Michelle and I fully admit that we are each a 'hot mess' in April, but I see now that our 'hot mess' is not necessarily ugly. We are crying beautiful tears for Scarlett and Andy. We have puffy faces, runny noses, and red eyes. Those tears may not make us look pretty on the outside, but our 'hot mess' is truly beautiful as we are freely showing lament while mourning our amazing children.

Today's guest, Teresa Davis, currently goes by another name - The Grief Mentor. She hosts a podcast that is released twice a week. On the podcast, Teresa works to 'shine a light into the shadows, helping you discover that joy and pain can coexist, and that you can still have a purpose here on earth.' In addition to the podcast, Teresa offers a free grief survival guide, a free grief masterclass, a grief worship playlist, weekly newsletter, monthly support groups, and even one-on-one Grief Mentor sessions. As amazing as all of these things are, however, the thing that I admire most about Teresa is her sharing of the story that got her to this place of hope and healing in her grief journey. Though Teresa had a strong faith and was leading Bible studies, that faith was rocked to its core the day her oldest son, Andrew, a 32-year-old commercial pilot, was killed in a plane crash. She says that the world lost its color that day. She felt betrayed by God. God could have protected Andrew that day, but he didn't. She had devoted her life to God, but she felt He had failed her. Over the following months, Teresa found herself at a crossroads. She could either continue living in the darkness or she could choose to rebuild her life. Interestingly, a visit to the plane crash site months after the accident became a pivotal moment in her life. The smell of jet fuel was still in the air as she searched for where the cockpit had crashed into the ground. Suddenly, she heard God's voice in her head repeating Scripture - 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here.' Instead of feeling like the place of death and destruction, the crash site began to feel like a holy spot, the place where Andrew began his new life in heaven.  Over the next months and years, Teresa's faith continued to grow and evolve. It took on a strength it had never had before. Teresa began to pray, 'Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.' He has answered this prayer again and again. Now, by working as the Grief Mentor, Teresa takes other grieving parents by the hand, showing them how to feel joy in the midst of chaos.

Weddings. Graduations. Births. Empty Nesting. Divorce. No one would ever say that going through a big transition like this is easy. When reviewing my curriculum for my Starlight Virtual Support group this week, I learned that when people go through any rite of passage during life, their bodies require 20-25 minutes of rest three times a day, or they can get sick. Let's take a second and really think about that - we should rest 20-25 minutes three times a day when facing big life changes. I'm trying to look back to whether I have ever truly put aside time like that when going through big life transitions. I don't think I have. I am quite sure I am not alone in this. We are encouraged to power through and keep going until we fall into bed exhausted at night's end. Now, let's go a step further. When we are grieving and going through additional big transitions in life, is it surprising that we are completely exhausted? This conversation with Gwen serves as a wake-up call to me, and hopefully, it will do the same for all of you. I am certain that over the past almost 300 episodes of this podcast, I have said countless times how important it is to give yourself grace while you are grieving. Today, I am going to tell you to give yourself double grace when you are going through changes in life. Are you going through a graduation or planning for children to move off to college? Get help from others. You are more tired than your friends. They likely aren't thinking about the child whose graduation party they will never get to have, or living with the fear that when this child moves off to college, they might never see them again. Give yourself grace. Are you planning a wedding or expecting a new baby in the family? This is awesome and wonderful, but it is still exhausting, and the grief will likely bubble up when you least expect it, while looking at the empty chair in the church or in the eyes of that newborn. Give yourself grace. Are you going through the challenge of divorce? It may bring relief for a new beginning, but you may feel grief as you remember family times together. Give yourself grace.

Today, I'm honored to welcome Michael and Peggy Mages to the podcast to share the story of their son, Mason—a deeply thoughtful young man often referred to as an "old soul", who loved everything John Deere and Star Wars, was always prepared with a pair of pliers, and displayed confidence in exactly who God created him to be.In this first half of our conversation, you'll hear about Mason's unique personality, the impact he had on those around him, and the day that changed everything—the drowning incident that placed Mason into the arms of Jesus.Michael and Peggy share their story with honesty and faith, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ, even in our deepest sorrow.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Today is the continuation of a conversation Laura had with Greg and Cathy Bufkin. In last week's discussion and this week, the talk goes beyond the topic of suicide, so no matter how your child left this earth, you will be encouraged by what is shared. Greg and Cathy Buffkin lost their son, Ryan, to […] The post 294: Child Loss by Suicide Part 2 appeared first on GPS Hope.

Most companies give grieving parents just three days to "move on"—but what happens when the real pain begins on day four? We explore the deeper reality of child loss, the healing power of grief retreats, and why workplaces must do better to support employees through unimaginable loss.In today's episode, I'm joined by Kelly McDyre, the President and CEO of the Child Loss Foundation, an organization devoted to supporting parents who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child. With more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience, Kelly has dedicated her career to creating compassionate spaces for healing through retreats, resources, and workplace programs. Her work is deeply personal—sparked by the sudden death of her 12-year-old nephew in 2010, which led her to walk alongside grieving families with empathy and purpose. Kelly previously served as Executive Director at Faith's Lodge, where she helped establish a sanctuary for bereaved parents, and later played a key role in its merger with the Believe Foundation to form the Child Loss Foundation. She also founded Child Loss at Work, an innovative program designed to help employers provide meaningful support to grieving employees.Throughout this episode, Kelly offers heartfelt insights into her journey and the impact of the Child Loss Foundation's work. She shares how the organization came to life through the merging of two powerful missions—Faith's Lodge's retreat-based healing model and the Believe Foundation's practical financial support. Kelly introduces listeners to the foundation's expanding national reach and its goal to create more accessible grief retreats across the country. She also explains how Child Loss at Work is transforming the way employers approach grief in the workplace, advocating for more compassionate policies and better understanding. With warmth and wisdom, Kelly reminds us that while grief never fully fades, it can coexist with joy—and that no parent should ever have to navigate loss alone.Tune in as Kelly McDyre shares how her family's loss inspired her to create healing retreats for bereaved parents and workplace programs that bring empathy, connection, and space for both grief and joy.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Meet Kelly McDyre and the Child Loss Foundation (1:00)The origins: Faith's Lodge and the Believe Foundation Merge (1:45)Kelly's personal connection to child loss (6:00)Retreats as safe spaces for grieving parents (9:50)Expanding the reach of grief retreats (10:30)Grief and joy can coexist (15:00)What not to say to a grieving parent (20:30)Fixing grief support at work: The “3 days off” problem (24:00)Loss at work: A program to transform workplace compassion (25:30)Writing, rituals, and the lifelong nature of grief (31:30)Connect with Kelly McDyre:Website - Child Loss FoundationFacebook - Faith's LodgeInstagram - Faith's LodgeKelly's LinkedInLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are your thoughts wearing you out? Are you clinging to busyness, just trying to keep the pain at bay? In today's episode, I'm teaching you a powerful tool that could be the lifeline your weary soul has been needing: thought management. We're not talking about silencing your grief. We're talking about inviting God into the middle of it—one thought at a time. ✨ Inside this episode:

When Britt's 4-year-old son, Persy, died from cancer 18 months ago, Britt says that she was shocked. Now, you may question why Britt says she was shocked. Persy suffered from cancer for almost two years before dying. He underwent treatment after treatment, both in their home state of Florida and in New York. Persy was sent home on hospice to spend the last three weeks of his life. How is it that Britt says she was shocked? The answer lies in the difference between the words shock and surprise. Was Britt surprised that Persy died? No - she was not. She knew he was dying. Although she continued to pray for a miracle, she knew that his chances of recovery were minimal, so she was not surprised when Persy took his last breath. However, Britt was still shocked. No parent can truly imagine what life will be like after their child dies. We won't ever hear their voice again, be able to see their smile light up a room, or hold them close in a loving hug. We are therefore in shock when we have to experience these things, no matter whether the death was expected or not. As the shock slowly wears off, we now realize that we must continue living, even though it feels impossible. We may cry every day. We miss them every day, but time continues to move. Britt immediately turned to other bereaved parents to ask for help. Britt says that she and her husband have held on to two truths since losing Persy. First, their faith will bring them back to Persy. Persy lives on in heaven, and someday, they will be able to join him. The second truth is that every day, they are a little closer to the day they will be reunited with Persy. Do these truths make it easy to live here on earth without Persy? Of course not. Britt cries for Persy each day. She misses that he is not a part of her life now. She wishes her younger boys had an older brother to teach them to run, jump, and play - an older brother who might have occasionally gotten them all into trouble. Despite this longing for Persy and the life they might have had, she will continue to remind herself of the truth that one day they will all be reunited in faith.

In Part Two of this powerful conversation, Brad and Karen Nadolson continue sharing the story of their daughter Bethany—this time focusing on how life has unfolded in the wake of her homegoing.With honesty and grace, they talk about walking through the earliest days of grief, how their relationship with God has deepened, and the ways they've learned to honor Bethany's life while continuing to live with purpose and hope. They speak about how grief affects marriage, how they've navigated holidays, and what it means to truly see the good even when your heart is broken.This episode offers tender encouragement for any parent learning how to carry their child's memory forward while holding tightly to the promises of God.Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with the Nadolsons.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Today Laura is diving into the topic of suicide with guests Greg and Cathy Buffkin. However, their conversation goes beyond that, giving help and hope to anyone who has lost a child. Greg and Cathy Buffkin lost their son, Ryan, to suicide in 2015. On their journey that began out of unspeakable trauma and brokenness, […] The post 293: Child Loss by Suicide appeared first on GPS Hope.

In part two of this special conversation, Buffy and Tina continue their discussion on love, loss, and Brody's lasting impact. Tina shares how writing became a lifeline throughout Brody's illness and grief, offering a glimpse into the book that is emerging from her journey. They also explore the breath, mindfulness, and meditation practices that carried their family through the hardest moments—and how those same practices continue to support them today.CW: Grief, Child Loss, CancerLearn more about the Brody Huber Foundation here.

Today, I am joined by Jason, who provides a deep look into how men grieve. After losing his son, he struggled to find support and ended up taking things into his own hands. He not only created a group more geared towards men, he also made a grief coloring book! What started as letters to his son has now become a resource for so many(not just men)!If you want to connect with Jason or purchase the grief coloring book, you can do so at the links below!WebsiteColoring BookLetter To Zachary Grief Group

I am quite sure I have never spoken with a parent whose child had their own Wikipedia page, but Erin's son, Keenan Cahill, does. Certainly, when Keenan was born, Erin did not ever imagine that someday, he would become an internet celebrity. From an early age, Erin worried about Keenan and his growth and development. When Keenan was 12 months old, Erin mentioned her concerns to Keenan's pediatrician. Keenan was diagnosed with Mucopolysaccharidosis Type VI. The disease was not curable, but was treatable. He underwent a bone marrow transplant to slow the progression. Erin was told that his life expectancy was between 40 and 60 years, and they should expect medical complications throughout life.  Despite these challenges, Keenan wanted to be a regular kid, and Erin worked hard to make him feel that way. When Keenan wanted to play sports, Erin signed him up, although he could never hope to keep up with other kids. Nothing stood in his way. As Keenan started high school, he began playing around with the desktop computer he got for his birthday. He released a hilarious video of himself lip-syncing to Katy Perry's song, "Teenage Dream." People loved it, and soon it was played on The Jimmy Kimmel Show. His life changed forever. Keenan was off to do events to entertain people. Celebrities visited their home to be in Keenan's videos, but with this newfound fame, many had negative, hurtful comments. Just as Keenan did not let his disease hold him back, he didn't let those hateful comments hold him back either. Eventually, he graduated from college and was able to produce his own music videos.  Complications after heart surgery ended Keenan's life in 2022 at the age of 27, far earlier than expected. While the world mourned a Youtuber, Erin mourned her amazing son. As Erin shared his story, I just kept thinking about how he spread joy in his short life. That should inspire all of us, shouldn't it? Despite the grief and pain, we too can spread joy and inspire others. While we may not end up with a Wikipedia page, it will be enough to help spread some happiness or relieve a little pain in those around us.

In this first part of a two-part conversation, Brad and Karen Nadolson share the story of their daughter Bethany—a vibrant, faith-filled young woman whose life was defined by compassion, courage, and an unwavering desire to serve others.Listeners will get to know Bethany through her parents' eyes—from her love of travel and missions, to her selfless work with children in Haiti, to her brave fight with cancer. Through every chapter of her life, Bethany chose to see the good, a motto that shaped how she lived and how she faced unimaginable challenges.Brad and Karen reflect on the early days of her diagnosis, the van project that became a treasured father-daughter experience, and the faith that sustained their family through deep grief. This episode offers a powerful testimony for any bereaved parent walking the road of loss with hope in Christ.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Today's episode is being sponsored by recent followers of GPS Hope, in honor of Becca's birthday (Laura and Dave's daughter who passed). Laura was asked to share some stories about Becca as part of the sponsorship, so she asked Dave to join her for this. As listeners of the Grieving Parents Sharing Hope podcast, you […] The post 292: Helping You Navigate Through the Darkness of Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.

When today's guest, Danielle, went into her 21-month-old daughter Lydia's room to wake her from a nap on Christmas Day 2022, she noted how peaceful Lydia looked. She began to gently rub her back to rouse her gradually, but Lydia did not move. Danielle started to jostle her a bit more and soon realized that something was very wrong. Lydia was not waking up. Danielle screamed for her husband's help and quickly called 911. Even as she drove to the hospital, Danielle says she did not realize the gravity of the situation. Lydia had died. They learned from Lydia's autopsy that she had a rare congenital mesenteric defect that caused a volvulus and bowel obstruction that day. Their previously healthy, smiley, chatty girl and only child was gone. All they were given when they left the hospital were the pajamas Lydia had been wearing - pajamas that matched Danielle's own. They had no idea what to do. She desperately wanted some guidance - resources to help navigate these first unimaginable days and weeks, but they felt alone.  Feeling lost, Danielle went home and started crocheting little white hearts. She buried Lydia with one in her hands and kept a matching one for herself. She crocheted hundreds of these tiny hearts, giving them away so others could remember Lydia's kindhearted spirit. Over the next weeks, Danielle thought more and more about walking out of that hospital with nothing but Lydia's pajamas. Within 4 months of Lydia's death, Danielle had started an organization in Lydia's memory that she named Love From Lydia. She began working with two local hospitals to help make care packages for grieving parents. Included in the package would be a pair of crocheted white hearts and information to help parents in this new, unexpected pain.  Over time, Danielle realized that she wanted to do more than send comforting words on paper. She wanted to help make personal connections. She created COPE (Connecting Our Personal Experiences) which works to match parents with other grieving parents who are at least a year out from the death of their own child, making sure that newly bereaved parents don't feel as lost and alone as she once did.

Welcome to Episode #250, which is a continuation of my conversation with Brian and Danna Mayhall.  Their daughter Amelia went to Heaven in July of 2013 after sustaining a devastating brain injury due to a woman's deliberate decision to drive the wrong way down the freeway. In last week's episode, we came to know Amelia's beautiful and compassionate spirit and the painful circumstances surrounding her death.  Today, we continue that conversation by stepping into some of the most tender parts of the Mayhall's grief journey—walking through forgiveness, learning how grief evolves over time, and discovering how hope can rise even in the darkest places. You'll hear how they've kept Amelia's memory alive in meaningful ways, how their faith has been refined through suffering, and how God continues to use their story to comfort and support other grieving parents.This episode is for every parent who has known deep sorrow—and who is holding on to the hope of eternity. Let's listen in.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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

Three years ago, Buffy's dear friend Tina Porter faced the unimaginable—losing her son, Brody, to an aggressive brain tumor. In this special episode, Buffy and Tina come together for a heartfelt closet session to reflect on love, loss, and the lasting impact of Brody's life. They discuss the beauty of his legacy and the practices that carried Tina and her family through both his passing and the grief that followed. This intimate conversation is a tribute to resilience, remembrance, and the ways we hold on to those we love. This is part one of a two-part conversation.CW: Grief, Child Loss, CancerLearn more about the Brody Huber Foundation here.

I was honored to sit down with Brian and Danna Mayhall recently, who joined me to share the story of their daughter, Amelia—a young woman whose life was characterized by kindness and compassion.   Amelia sustained a devastating injury after a woman made a deliberate choice to drive the wrong way down the freeway and crashed into her car.  In today's episode, you'll hear about the months Amelia lived beyond the crash, the tender loving care given by her parents, and her ultimate homegoing in July of 2013.  You'll also hear how the Mayhalls have walked through the legal system after the driver was charged with felony homicide, including the victim's impact statement Danna gave to the judge.  This is a conversation about loss—but more than that, it's a conversation about love, grace, and the presence of God in our deepest valleys.  This is part one of a two-part series that speaks directly to the hearts of grieving parents. We pray this conversation reminds you that you're not alone, and that God is near to the brokenhearted.Topics Covered:Amelia's life and legacy of kindnessThe tragic crash that took her lifeCaring for an adult child with traumatic brain injuryGod's presence in grief and sufferingThe unique grief of losing a married adult childFaith, family, and the power of community supportFinding meaning in moments of heartbreakStay Connected:If this episode was meaningful to you, we'd love to hear from you. Subscribe, leave a review, or share this episode with someone who may need it today.Resources:Click HERE for more information about the Our Hearts Are Home conference. I would love to see you there!  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** 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