Death of a Parent

Mourning a Man I Never Knew

This spring, I turned fifty-four. I have now outlived the father I never knew: my biological father. It’s been almost twenty-three years since we spoke; eighteen years since I learned of his death. I’m still dealing with the strange grief of his loss.

Keith – “My story”

Keith tells his story and why he became a counsellor.

Kim – Checking in is very important

Kim explains why it is so important to check in and keep in touch with people who have lost

Jessica M – Continuing Bonds

Jessica talks about the values of continuing bonds and connections with people who are not here anymore. She gives some examples of things that have made her more connected to her Mom.

Katie “Ongoing Grief”

Katie talks about the loss of her mother.

Jessica M – A Parking Lot Memorial

Jessica shares how her family gathered after her uncle died during COVID and how her family came up with a creative way of getting together in a parking lot.

Bryan – Anticipation

Bryan discusses the experience of having his father go through a coma and ultimately dying from gun violence

Bryan – Trauma

Bryan discusses trauma anxiety, support and the loss of his father to gun violence

Hope – Benefits of child-centred grief programs

Hope discusses hope grief camp gave her and her family a place to feel normal

Katie – Getting stronger

Katie talks losing her mother when she was young and how the experience helped her when she lost her Dad

Sam – Depression

Sam who lost his father, uncle and cousin talks about depression and being self aware

Hope – Not wanting to burden my Mom and school

Hope talks about her fathers death, burdens and the importance of sharing emotions