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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.
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.
Some music and sounds in this podcast by @itslucakoala In this BRAND NEW podcast episode — Brittany (your podcast host) drops a fun solo episode for the month of August! It's BABY MONTH FOR HER so she is wrapping up the year with 2 final episodes for YOU- her loyal listeners before going on a maternity leave. In this episode Brittany talks about her dad coming to visit North Carolina. Britt also spends majority of the episode filling her loyal listeners in on how amazing the most recent ‘Child Loss Awareness' event was for all that attended during June of 2025. Her and husband Ryan Dull are very grateful to have put on such a meaningful event for the local community — having raised a little over $7,000.00 in under a year for grief support means the world to them! And they are both very appreciative of all who helped in that feat. She hopes you all enjoy this episode! Discussed in this episode — Brittany fills listeners in on her dad's quick yet fun trip to North Carolina — Bringing awareness to child loss for the second time! — The outline for when the event was planned - who helped? How did it get started? — Brittany discusses which special vendors and resource tables attended— silent auction and so much more! — Brittany discusses Trellis and the importance of support. Check presentation and throwing out the first pitch at the ballpark! — 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. 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
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
Today's guest, Jody, worked as an actor on Broadway for a year, but nothing had ever prepared her for the role she was required to play after the birth of her firstborn daughter, Lueza. After a completely unremarkable pregnancy, Jody suffered severe complications during childbirth, resulting in significant brain injuries for Baby Lueza. After suffering from horrible seizures as a young infant, they were able to stabilize little Lueza. Once they did so, she began to show a smile that would light up a room. Still, Lueza had significant delays. She could not sit, eat, or talk independently. At one point in time, Jody remembers looking at her husband and saying, "Will Lueza ever be able to sit up on her own?" Her husband's answer stuck with her: "She may be lying down, but she may be very happy." Over the years, Lueza proved her Dad right. She continued to be 'lying down,' but she was always very happy. She loved music, movies, and roller coasters. She would laugh and squeal and could let her family know what she did and didn't like with the slightest head movements. And her smile continued to light up the room. Lueza had a profound effect on many people around her as she interacted with doctors and nurses in the medical community and her teachers at school. Over time, Lueza slowly developed more complications and died suddenly at home one night after getting what her family thought was only a little cold. Then, Jody's life changed once again. She was no longer the mother of a medically complex child. She was now a bereaved mother. There were no more hospital visits. The medical equipment was no longer needed in the family home. Jody began doing arts and crafts as a form of healing. She attended spiritual support groups for bereaved parents. Most importantly, Jody began to write. Jody wrote a memoir about her life with Lueza that was years in the making. The title of the memoir was so fitting - 'She May Be Lying Down, but She May Be Very Happy.' This memoir was a story of her life with Lueza and a heartfelt thank you to all the people who had helped her over the years. A beautiful tribute for a beautiful girl.
Join Sandra Champlain in a heartfelt conversation with Cathy McHugh, a teacher for the blind, an evidential medium, and a shining light parent. After the tragic passing of her brilliant and sensitive son, Sean, from a fentanyl overdose, Cathy embarked on a profound journey of communication, healing, and understanding. In this episode, Cathy shares the incredible and specific signs she received from Sean, including a mysterious email from a spirit helper and a childhood drawing that proved the butterflies and dragonflies she was seeing were truly from him. She introduces the beautiful concept of the "side-by-side life," explaining how our loved ones are not far away but exist in a world right alongside ours. We also have a deep and important discussion about precognition versus manifestation, exploring the premonitions Cathy had about Sean's life and offering profound comfort to any parent who has struggled with the heavy weight of guilt and "what ifs." This conversation is a guiding light for anyone navigating grief, offering wisdom from her new book, "The Choice to Rise: Free Will in the Face of Tragedy." Find this great book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4kXojLG Find out more about Cathy: https://cathymchugh.com/ Resource Mentioned: * Helping Parents Heal: Find support and community at https://www.helpingparentsheal.org/ Connect with Sandra Champlain: * Website (Free book, Sunday Gatherings, Mediumship Classes & more): http://wedontdie.com *Patreon (Early access, PDF of all episodes & more): Visit https://www.patreon.com/wedontdieradio *Don't miss Sandra's #1 "Best of all things afterlife related" show 'Shades of the Afterlife' at https://bit.ly/ShadesoftheAfterlife
I'm so pleased today to be joined by Clarissa Moll—an award-winning writer, podcaster, and author of the bestselling book Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving After Loss. While Clarissa is not a grieving parent, I invited her to the show because of the practical insights she offers about parenting grieving children. In this episode, she shares her personal journey as a widow and how she's found hope and healing through faith, community, and creativity. Her wisdom, born from walking alongside her own children through loss, speaks directly to the challenges many of us face as we support our kids through heartbreak.Clarissa shares the inspiration behind her newest book for children, Hope Comes to Stay, a gentle and beautifully written story that helps young readers understand and process grief. If you're a parent navigating your own sorrow while trying to care for your child's heart, this conversation will offer comfort, language, and hope.In this episode, we discuss:Clarissa's journey after the sudden death of her husbandHow Beyond the Darkness offers practical, compassionate help for grieving heartsWhat it means to parent children who grieveTools and language to help kids process lossThe inspiration behind her new children's book, Hope Comes to StayHow faith and lament can live side by sideWhat flourishing after loss can look like for familiesWhether you're grieving yourself or walking alongside your children in their grief, Clarissa offers a tender reminder that healing is possible—and that you're not alone on this journey.Resources Mentioned:Beyond the Darkness by Clarissa MollHope Comes to Stay (Clarissa's new children's book)Hurt Help Hope (Clariss'a book written with her teen daughter, Fiona)Clarissa's websiteI 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 episode of the Feel Free Again podcast, host Cole James speaks with Kira Pertuit, a certified grief recovery method specialist, about her personal journey through grief after losing her daughter. Kira shares her struggles with traditional grief support and how she discovered the grief recovery method, which helped her heal and transform her life. They discuss the common myths surrounding grief, particularly the belief that time alone heals, and emphasize the importance of taking action to process grief. Kira highlights the possibility of finding joy and fulfillment in life despite the pain of loss, and they explore the emotional complexities of grieving, especially in the context of losing a child. The conversation aims to challenge misconceptions about grief and encourage listeners to seek support and healing. In this conversation, Cole James and Kira Pertuit explore the complexities of grief, the importance of finding the right support systems, and the transformative power of grief recovery methods. They discuss personal experiences with loss, the challenges of navigating grief in community settings, and the impact of unresolved grief on relationships and mental health. Kira shares her work in the Montana Women's Prison, highlighting the effectiveness of grief recovery tools in helping incarcerated women process their grief and find healing. The discussion emphasizes the need for emotional completeness in relationships and the importance of addressing grief in a constructive manner. Connect with Kira: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aspensangelsmt Website: https://www.griefrecoverymethod.com/grms/kira-pertuit 00:00 - Introduction to Grief Recovery 01:03 - Kira's Personal Journey with Grief 03:14 - The Impact of Time on Grief 05:42 - Navigating the Loss of a Child 08:45 - Finding Joy Amidst Grief 10:50 - Understanding Sadness vs. Pain 11:44 - The Process of Grieving 15:54 - Timing in Grief Recovery 18:32 - The Role of Identity in Grief 20:50 - The Balance of Emotions in Grief 22:01 - Challenging Myths About Child Loss 24:52 - Navigating Grief: Finding the Right Support 32:28 - Understanding the Impact of Loss on Relationships 36:25 - Empowering Change: Grief Recovery in Prisons 42:56 - Tools for Emotional Completeness in Daily Life
Meet Keri Croft, an infertility, child loss and surrogacy advocate who went through 16 years of infertility. On today's ep, Keri tells Ali all about her family building journey, which includes having her son, and also the devastating loss of her first girl, Angel, who was missing part of her cerebellum. "It was a horrible, horrible decision to have to make, and I wouldn't wish it on anybody," Keri says of undergoing a TFMR (Termination for Medical Reasons). Keri talks about how a balanced translocation affected their fertility journey, and also how she navigated IUI and IVF. "I tried everything. And of course that takes a toll on your marriage. It was an absolute clusterfuck," she says. Keri also shares how she lost two other girls, Hope and Jade, how she and her husband decided to pursue surrogacy, and launching her workshop, Find Your Dream Surrogate. "After years of fertility treatments, loss, and heartbreak, I eventually had my daughter via a surrogate — a journey I navigated completely independently, without an agency," Keri says. "It was beautiful and brutal and eye-opening in ways I never expected. When it was all said and done, I kept thinking: Why the hell isn't there a better roadmap for this? So I built one."For more, go to www.kericroft.comFollow on IG: @thekericroftshowTOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: Pregnancy; TFMR; trying to conceive; pregnancy loss; baby loss; IVF; IUI; balanced translocation; surrogacy; ART; EPISODE SPONSORS: BEAUTIFUL BIRD AND WORK OF ARTAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “Beautiful Bird” tells the story of three parents, one incredible boy and a family built with love—and a little bit of science.Pre-orders are available now! The first 150 copies will be Personalized, Signed and Numbered! Don't miss out on this limited edition! Tap the link in bio and stories to order your copy today.When Helen decides to have a baby on her own, she welcomes Jack Bird into the world through IUI with the help of her friend, Aaron. But when Jack is born and needs extra care in the NICU, Aaron and his partner, Blake, fall in love with Jack, too. Together, the three join forces to raise Jack, proving that family isn't about how you start—it's about how you grow.Order yours now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFor bulk orders of 10 or more books at 20% off, go to https://www.infertileafgroup.com/bulk-order-requestFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipINITOhttps://try.inito.com/hormone-tracking/inf/?discount=INFERTILEAF&utm_source=social_media&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=INFERTILEAFIG: @initofertiilityFor years, clinical labs were the only way to get a clear view of your hormone levels and ovulation patterns. But for many people in the trying to conceive community—especially those with hormone imbalances or conditions like PCOS—frequent lab visits can be costly, inconvenient, and take up a ton of time. This is why I'm excited to tell you about Inito, which is unlike anything else out there. Inito is an at-home fertility monitor that tracks all four key hormones—Estrogen, LH, FSH, and PdG—on a single test strip. Instead of piecing together fragments of info, Inito offers a full, clear picture of your hormone health through a data chart and clear insights that are unique to your body and your cycle.The Inito Starter Pack is available for just $89 with the code INFERTILEAF at ihttps://try.inito.com/hormone-tracking/inf/?discount=INFERTILEAF&utm_source=social_media&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=INFERTILEAFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at https://redcircle.com/infertile-af/donationsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
When today's guest, Andy, lost his 18-year-old son, Heston, to suicide, he had a lot of time to reflect on life and finding one's purpose. Early in Andy's grief journey, he saw a visual that truly resonated with him. The image was of a framed picture that was completely black. The blackness represented the grief that, early on in one's grief journey, was all-encompassing. The darkness of the grief covered every part of the bereaved person's life. Then, there was a second image of a black rectangle the same size as the first. However, the picture frame was now several times larger, so that the black portion now took up only 5% of the frame. The explanation is simple. The deep grief does not go away. The hole in our hearts remains. What we can work to change is the rest of our lives. We can grow and expand so that our lives are bigger than the grief. There are portions with love, joy, and happiness. They do not eliminate the grief, and the grief remains a part of the picture, but it is not the entire picture. The idea is not to get stuck in our grief, but to bring it along with us as we continue to experience life. This past weekend, my (foster) son, Valeriano, got married. It was a beautiful wedding. There were lots of smiles and happiness surrounding the couple, but there were tears, too, as we had our first big family event without our Andy. Valeriano bought a special green pen to use to sign his marriage certificate to honor Andy. I put his picture and teddy bear on the seat where he should have been sitting. The new family picture included Andy's picture and teddy bear. We did not ignore our grief and forget about Andy on Saturday. We brought him along to be a part of the celebration. This is just what Heston's Dad, Andy, encourages as well. He brings Heston with him, feeling his presence. He has even released a powerful book, 'Overcoming Life's Toughest Setbacks: 15 Breakthrough Core Beliefs to Transform Challenges into Opportunities!' The book is available through his website, askandycampbell.com. If it's half as good as my conversation with him today, I know it will inspire many of us on our grief journey.
In this second half of my conversation with Katy Bone, we explore how grief has not only reshaped her life, but also refined her faith and revealed a deeper sense of purpose. Nearly six years after her son Barrett went to heaven, Katy reflects on the ways his short life continues to make an impact.Katy shares how her grief has evolved over time—from the early days of guilt and resistance to joy, to a place of acceptance where sorrow and hope coexist. She speaks candidly about her struggle with faith in the wake of loss, her anger toward God, and how He patiently met her in every question, every tear, and every step toward healing.We also talk about Blessings for Barrett, the nonprofit Katy and her husband founded to honor Barrett's legacy by supporting grieving siblings. Through thoughtfully curated care boxes and a newly released children's book, their ministry is reaching surviving siblings across the country with the important message: You are not alone.This episode is a powerful testament to how God brings beauty from ashes—and how even in our deepest pain, He can redeem and restore.Topics Covered:How grief changes over timeGiving yourself grace in the healing processFaith, doubt, and honesty with God after lossSupporting grieving siblings through their nonprofit ministry Blessings for BarrettKaty's new children's book, Buzzy the BeeWorship music as a companion in griefConnect with Katy:
SUMMARY: The conversation is centered around Lisa Espinoza's experience with child loss, focusing on her son, Chandler. Lisa shares that Chandler was adventurous and lived life fully, participating in various activities and sports. Chandler had a philosophy of life and was deeply affectionate and protective of others, never meeting a stranger. Lisa recounts the tragic accident that led to Chandler's passing and the subsequent 18 days of struggle before his death on January 1, 2019. The grief process for Lisa involved accepting the loss, processing pain, adjusting to life without Chandler, and maintaining a connection with him. She emphasizes the importance of not minimizing grief and allowing oneself to feel all emotions, including anger and sorrow. Lisa discusses honoring Chandler's memory through writing a book and helping others who have experienced similar loss. She finds joy in simple moments and believes in the possibility of joy coexisting with grief. Lisa encourages others to accept help from friends and community and to remain open to moments of joy. The conversation concludes with a focus on finding purpose and meaning after loss and the importance of inviting joy into one's life. PODCAST INTRO: Guest, Lisa Espinoza is an author, coach and a speaker. She stops by the show today to share her personal story of child loss, grief and finding joy even in the midst of great pain. The process of grief is as different as the person it comes upon but none-the-less we can find incredible value because shared story is how grieving hearts find encouragement. Child loss is an indescribable pain that no parent wishes to be part of. For Lisa, the loss of her son Chandler was a life-altering event that reshaped her world in countless ways. Lisa shares a heartfelt conversation of her experiences, providing us with a glimpse into a love that will never end coupled with the grief that accompanies the loss of a child. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the unwavering belief in the power of connection both with having Christ as your foundation and staying connected to life by way of offering practices of remembrance whether that be spontaneously and deliberately. You'll hear Lisa's reflection on Chandler's adventurous spirit, the kind of person who embraced life with open arms and an open heart. Chandler was one of the four children that Lisa and her husband have (and I do say have because the fact that Chandler is their son will never change)…, a son who brought joy and chaos in equal measure (If you're raising boys you'll know exactly what she's talking about when she shares those examples). You'll definitely see that Chandler lived life to the fullest. The journey of grief is a roller coaster ride at best, yet it is also a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Lisa's approach to grief involved reclining in the Lord and trusting Him to be with her through the dark valley. With God beside her, she decided to embrace the pain and allowed herself to feel deeply. She talked about other healthy ways of processing emotions and pain whether through counseling, writing, or simply sitting with the emotions; maybe with trusted friend who can bear that type of weight (in a healthy way). By accepting the loss and finding ways to adjust to a world without Chandler, Lisa not only finds encouragement for each day but peace and dare I say it (in this context of grief), she finds joy that honors her son's adventurous spirit. In her quest to find meaning amidst the sorrow, Lisa found purpose in helping others navigate their grief (her coaching services). Her writings, initially shared on a blog, became a source of comfort for many, offering a candid and raw portrayal of her journey. Through her words, Lisa provides a lifeline to those who feel isolated in their pain, reinforcing the knowledge that they are not alone. Because of the response she was receiving from her blog posts, she decided to published her story and it is now available to anyone who would love to be encourage (link below). Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, the possibility of joy and connection can light the way forward. Lisa Espinoza's story is a poignant testament to the enduring power of love and the human capacity to heal and find meaning amidst profound loss. Her journey through grief is a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of unimaginable pain, you are never alone and you can trust God to know the way through. Live Loved and Thrive! @alifeofthrive.com Sherrie Pilk Connect with Lisa: Website: https://www.lisaespinoza.com Her books: First, Brush Your Teeth—Grief and Hope in Real Time: https://www.lisaespinoza.com/first-brush-your-teeth Days of Whine and Noses—Pep Talks for Tuckered Out Moms FB - https://www.facebook.com/lisachandlersmom IG - https://www.instagram.com/lisa.espinoza/ BIO: Author and speaker Lisa Espinoza is a trusted companion to others along their journeys of grief. In her book First, Brush Your Teeth—Grief and Hope in Real Time, Lisa shares with raw honesty the story of losing her youngest son Chandler and reminds us that hope and joy are possible, even after the greatest heartache and loss. OTHER BLOG POSTS AND/OR PODCAST EPISODES ON THIS TOPIC: *A Deep Dive of the Soul After Child Loss, with Bridgett Dunbar: https://alifeofthrive.com/2024/07/03/a-deep-dive-of-the-soul-after-child-loss-stillbirth-with-bridgett-dunbar/ *Finding Peace and Comfort After the Death of Her Son, with Alicia Hodges: https://alifeofthrive.com/2023/08/30/finding-peace-and-comfort-after-the-death-of-her-son-alicia-hodges/ *Surviving Grief and the Death of Her Daughter, with Carole Sluski: https://alifeofthrive.com/2023/03/15/surviving-grief-and-the-death-of-her-daughter-with-carol/ *Hope Reger and The Death of Her Son: https://alifeofthrive.com/2021/12/22/hope/ LISA MENTIONED THESE BOOKS: Lisa spoke of 3 books that she found great comfort in. You can find these books on Amazon and many other sites that sell books. (I do not get any compensation should you purchase): Healing after Loss by Martha Hickman Lament for a Son by Nicholas Wolterstorff The Choice, by Edith Eger
Have you ever felt like you're doing all the right things on the outside… but inside, you're just stuck? You're not alone. Grief can make you feel like you're stranded on an island—surrounded by people, yet completely isolated. In today's episode, Teresa opens up about the hidden walls grief builds and the silent pain so many moms carry alone. You'll hear a powerful excerpt from a real grief support call, revealing how honest community can begin to tear down those invisible walls and bring the healing your heart longs for. This episode will help you: Recognize the emotional isolation of grief Understand why pretending you're okay only prolongs your pain Hear what happens when grieving moms gather in safe, faith-centered community Learn why community is a lifeline—and how to find one that gets you You'll also hear a special message from a mom who took a huge step of couragae—and what happened when she said yes to mentorship and community.
Have you found yourself stuck in the endless questions of why after your child died? Why did this happen? Why my child? Why didn't God stop it? In this raw and tender episode, Laura gently explores what it means to live in that painful space between loss and healing--where answers often never come, and "closure" […] The post 305: Waiting for Answers After Child Loss appeared first on GPS Hope.
After losing her first daughter Lily at birth, Lexi set out to feel it all. To her it was important for her to lean into her pain, her grief, and her motherhood to a baby no longer here. Lexi poured herself into her poetry, that she self published as a way to connect with Lily as well as take time and space to just BE with herself and her pain instead of pushing it away. Since Lily's death, Lexi has since had her little sister Daisy. We talk about the beauty and sadness in raising a living child after loss and the complexity of parenting one here and one in the sky. You can tell her love for her daughters and the strength she exudes despite her pain is inspiring. Find her book on Amazon "The First 40 Weeks" as well as connect with her on Instagram: @grief.and.lily *************************************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/
Today's guest, Jackie, says that her guiding purpose is based on a quote that she has written down and keeps close by. David Viscott wrote, "The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The work of life is to develop it. And the meaning of life is to give your gift away." Jackie says that is exactly how her son, Stu, lived his life and how she works to live her own. Initially, after her amazingly talented, loving son, Stu, died by suicide, she lost herself. Stu had been living his dream life in New York City. He had his own apartment and worked at a job he loved as a barber, cutting hair. Then, mental illness invaded his life and took him away. Jackie was left feeling alone. Hope? What is that? Healing? That's impossible. She tried going to grief support groups but felt overwhelmed. Then, Jackie found an organization called Eric's House. Their vision is that 'no person who is bereaved by suicide or substance use will suffer these devastating losses alone.' Jackie said the organization saved her. Ever so slowly, hope crept back into her life. Jackie didn't force healing to come, but it did, a little bit at a time. She joined one of their online support groups and then another. They gave her the tools that she needed to start rebuilding her life. She began writing an article for the organization's newsletter and started facilitating support groups for them as well. Over time, Jackie found a purpose for her grief. Now Jackie compares herself to the old apple trees in her backyard. They appear to be 150 years old. They have branches dying each year and huge holes in them, but they persist. Each year, the trees blossom and look beautiful. They produce apples that feed the deer in the area. Whatever life throws at them, they keep going. That is a great visual for our lives now. We may have huge holes inside and limbs that are missing, but we just keep going. As ugly as our lives may look from the outside, they can still produce beauty and help provide for others along our life's journey. We may not be who we once were, but we can still be amazing.
Send us a textIn this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Linda Henderson—a retired nurse, author, and grieving mother—who vulnerably shares her journey through the devastating loss of her daughter, Andrea.We explore:Linda's experience with prolonged and complicated griefThe emotional and physical toll of losing a childHow she found her way forward using her AAA method: Acknowledgement, Action, and AppreciationThe power of small, intentional steps in grief healingHow Linda leaned on support systems and grief tools that made a meaningful differenceLinda also shares the story behind her heartfelt memoir, "The Road of Love & Hope: The Journey of Child Loss", a book born from heartbreak and written to help other bereaved parents and grieving families feel less alone.If you're coping with the loss of a child, navigating the depths of grief, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers profound wisdom, validation, and a gentle reminder that healing—while never linear—is possible.Learn more about Micro-Moments for Transformation and begin your evolution today: https://lossesbecomegains.com/transformation Learn more about the 14-Day Relief in Your Grief experience and begin feeling more peace and healing: https://lossesbecomegains.com/transformationWork with me: Micro-Moments for Transformation: https://lossesbecomegains.com/transformation 14-Day Relief in Your Grief Challenge: https://lossesbecomegains.com/relief-in-grief Work with me one-on-one: https://lossesbecomegains.com/work-with-tara Connect with me further: Leave a voice note through Speakpipe! https://www.speakpipe.com/LifeWithGrief Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lossesbecomegains/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithgriefpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/losses.become.gains Website: https://lossesbecomegains.com/ Shop the LBG Daily Journal: https://lossesbecomegains.com/journal By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Tara Accardo, or used by Tara Accardo with permission. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may ...
In today's episode, I'm joined by my new friend Katy Bone, a wife and mother whose story is marked by both profound loss and enduring hope. In this first part of our conversation, Katy shares the early chapters of her motherhood journey—beginning with the heartbreaking miscarriage of her first son, whom she affectionately nicknamed “Little Bit.” She speaks about the grief that followed, the anxiety of pregnancy after loss, and the joy of welcoming her daughter Poppy.Katy then invites us into the story of her son Barrett. From a concerning 20-week ultrasound to a complicated delivery and three challenging weeks in the NICU, Katy and her husband walked through a season of emotional whiplash—clinging to hope, praying for healing, and ultimately facing Barrett's homegoing.Through it all, Katy's faith shines. She shares how the love of family, the compassion of medical staff, and the promises of Scripture sustained her through the hardest days of her life. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength of a mother's love and the unwavering presence of God in the midst of suffering.Topics Covered:Miscarriage and pregnancy after lossChoosing Barrett's nameComplications during pregnancy and deliveryLife in the NICU and the emotional toll of uncertaintyBarrett's diagnosis and their final days togetherMaking precious memories in the midst of griefThe nearness of God in deep sorrowScriptures Mentioned:John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”Connect with Katy:
When Dr. Fowler 's only child when missing in NYC, it became apparant the police were not going to be looking for him. They repeatedly told her "He'll be back." His poster was removed from the bulletin board after only a few weeks and Dr. Fowler never received a call from the detective assigned to LaMont's case. Years went by. Much to her surprise, the detective on the other end of her regular phone calls suddenly changed his stance. "Why, yes. You should come in." It was then she heard the hard truth. Not only had LaMont washed up on the banks of the East River eight days after he went missing, but he was identified. But that was the end of the investigation. No one made an attempt to reach out to his family. This episode shines a light on situations like LaMont's as well as offers five strategies of what to do about it.
In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Laura welcomes Lisa Espinoza to share the deeply personal story of losing her 25-year-old son, Chandler, after he was struck by a car and spent 18 days in the ICU before passing away on January 1st. Lisa opens up about the unique challenges of grieving during the holiday season, […] The post 304: Getting Through the Grief of Child Loss, One Step at a Time (with Lisa Espinoza) appeared first on GPS Hope.
When the weight of grief makes everyday life feel impossible, how do you keep going? In this episode, Teresa shares the simple but effective comforts that have helped her keep going after the loss of her son—and gives you the steps to begin noticing what might help you. Inside this reflection, you'll hear: Why the rhythms of everyday life matter more than you think How small comforts can help you feel more like yourself again What Teresa turns to on the hard days (and the lighter ones too) How to start your own list that will lead to living again
Maeve was a little girl who was born to be a big sister. As soon as she was able to toddle around the house, Maeve was bringing the family dog her favorite books to read and making sure he had everything that he 'needed'. Shortly after Maeve's second birthday, her little brother was born, and Maeve was truly in her element. She adored Declan and wanted to share everything with him. Baby Declan loved being a part of the 'Maeve show' as her mama, Tarah, described it. Declan would grin as his big sister laughed and danced around him. Life was good. Then, one day, that perfect life was destroyed. The little family was on a flight to DC. The flight had been delayed, so by the time the plane landed, Maeve had fallen asleep on her dada's lap. Tarah's husband tried to rouse her, and could not. Maeve was no longer breathing. He let out a scream, and both parents immediately started CPR. Their perfectly healthy 3-year-old daughter had died for no apparent reason while sleeping on her father's lap. Her official cause of death was Sudden Unexplained Death of Childhood (SUDC). Their world was shattered. Tarah first wrote to me less than two months after Maeve's death. She shared her story and asked to be connected to another mom whose daughter died of SUDC. Over the almost two years since that first email, Tarah has continued to email with family updates, show ideas, and eventually, about Maeve's Foundation, the charity that Tarah and her husband started in Maeve's memory. Initially, Tarah just wanted to collect enough money to buy a bench as a dedication to Maeve. Then, that idea grew into sponsoring a memorial garden in Maeve's memory. As more people contributed to the foundation, Tarah knew they needed to grow. The organization now has a new mission - Maeve's Wish. Maeve's Wish is working to provide 'a truly magical respite for children battling a chronic or terminal illness - a trip to Walt Disney World.' Just as Maeve wanted to make her family dog and baby brother happy, she will help make precious family memories for others. We're pretty sure she will be laughing and dancing as she watches from heaven.
I'm on the mic to discuss what's been goin on in this sh*t show. I'm all over the place with my iced coffee and ketamine stories and punching the air and the fine line between crazy and not giving af and all the lessons I've learned in the last couple weeks. I hope this makes you feel less alone in this crazy Loss Life. Go to KatherineLazar.com for all my helpful resourcesFollow me on IG at @thekatherinelazar *************************************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/
Welcome back to the second half of my conversation with Greg and Cathy Buffkin.In today's episode, the Buffkins speak directly to the grieving parent—especially the one who has lost a child to suicide and is wondering how to take the next breath, let alone the next step. With transparency and tenderness, they offer hard-won wisdom from their own journey, sharing what sustained them through the darkest days and how God's presence, along with the support of others, helped carry them forward.They share honestly about the emotional weight of guilt, the unique struggles of grieving as a couple, and the often-overlooked pain of surviving siblings. They also introduce us to their beautiful ministry, The Empty Chair Endeavor, and the purpose it's brought in the wake of devastating loss.This episode is filled with insight, encouragement, and a message of enduring hope for anyone navigating the deep waters of grief.Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with the Buffkins.Click HERE to listen to the Empty Chair Endeavor podcast with Greg Buffkin. Click HERE to visit the Empty Chair Endeavor website, and HERE to follow their Facebook page. 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
Elle is mama to her triplets in the stars, Noah, Eden & Hudson who were born severely prematurely in June 2021. Since then she has had their little brother, Sonny born in 2023. Elle is a successful therapist for loss mamas, pregnancy after loss and parenting after loss mamas. She is the epitome of doing the work in order to help others function and navigate Loss Life. Find her on Instagram and DM her for a session: @ellemargetsonhypnotherapy *************************************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 loss life. 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/
Storytelling. It's my very favorite thing about doing the podcast each week. When I meet each guest, I am privileged to help people share their child's story with people around the world. I have come to learn over the past 300-plus episodes that this storytelling helps lead to healing for both the guests sharing their stories and the listeners who tune in each week. Emily learned about the power of storytelling years ago while writing her book, Birth Story Brave. As a perinatal mental health specialist, she recognized the importance for women to be able to work through their own birth story experiences to help them heal when things don't go as planned. Hundreds of miles away, Malhaley, a fellow perinatal mental health specialist, used the book with her patients as well, finding its 'storytelling as healing' theme to be extremely helpful. Then, the unimaginable happened. Not only did Mahaley have her own birth trauma experience, but her daughter, Saachi, needed to be admitted to the NICU and died a few days later. Mahaley's world was rocked. She did not know if she would ever be able to work in perinatal mental health again, but as she did consider going back, she thought about Emily and her book. Mahaley knew that she needed to work through her own story to begin to heal. As helpful as Emily's first book was to Mahaley, she quickly realized that families whose birth story leads to their babies being admitted to the NICU needed something more. The birth story was important, certainly, but for these families, it was only the beginning. They need a guide to help them after the birth, when their babies start and sometimes end their lives in the NICU. Mahaley interviewed Emily, and an idea was born. The two of them began to write another book, 'Your NICU Story: Reflecting on Your Family's Experience', which will be released in September. In it, they utilize the power of storytelling to help families navigate their own NICU experiences, whether they ultimately bring their babies home or not.
Greg and Cathy Buffkin join me on the podcast today to share the story of their son Ryan—a funny and tenderhearted young man who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. As we get to know Ryan through their memories, we also learn about the hidden struggles he carried and the heartbreaking loss they experienced when he died by suicide in the fall of 2015.With honesty and grace, Greg and Cathy open up about the complicated grief that comes with suicide loss, including the misconceptions that often surround it. They speak directly to the false belief that suicide is the unforgivable sin, offering reassurance that Ryan knew the Lord and is with Him now. Our conversation is both tender and powerful, offering hope, truth, and the comforting reminder that God's love never lets go—even in our deepest sorrow.In this conversation, you'll hear:Stories of Ryan's life and personalityThe events leading up to his deathThe discovery of deeply painful truths after his passingHow Greg and Kathy have processed their grief over the past ten yearsThe impact of sibling loss on their surviving daughterGentle, faith-filled advice for parents grieving a suicideA reminder that God's love reaches even into our darkest placesThis episode is tender, honest, and full of hope. If you've lost a child—or know someone who has—Greg and Cathy's story will remind you that you are not alone and that God is present, even in the pain.Resources & Links:While We're Waiting – Support for bereaved parentsScripture References:Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”Romans 8:38-39 – “Nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…”Connect with Us:Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episodeLeave a review to help others find hopeVisit whilewerewaiting.org to learn more about our ministry for bereaved parentsCome back next week to hear the rest of the Buffkins' storyI 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 today's episode, Laura talks with Kim Harms, who has lost both a mom and a son to suicide and also found herself widowed. Even with all these losses, Kim has been able to learn how to live a life of meaning and purpose, and loves to encourage others that they can do the same. […] The post 302: Rediscovering Purpose After Child Loss (with Kim Harms) appeared first on GPS Hope.
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:
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.
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
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