Grief and Trauma

Cheryl and Mike – “Grieving more than one person”

Mike and Cheryl discuss how it gets complicated with multiple losses. They continue to grieve Cheryl’s father and the death their daughter in a car accident.

Rev. Sky – “It gets easier”

Rev. Sky talks about time and allowing emotion.

Donna B – “Accepting support”

Donna explains how support can help. Donna continues to grieve the death her son during service in Afghanistan.

Bryan – Anticipation

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

Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Other Special Days

When we are grieving, some days are more difficult than others. Grief comes in waves like the sea and can feel like an intertwining labyrinth of emotions. Birthdays, anniversaries, and special dates that are associated with our loved one who has died can contribute to more emotionally intense days which can be worsened through the anticipation and “what ifs” of the upcoming day. These difficult days can leave us feeling defeated and it can almost feel like we’ve taken two steps backward in our grieving process, but grief does not have a timeline, and these feelings of setbacks are opportunities for healing.

Brenda and Dale – “What is grief”

Brenda and Dale talk about their grief journey.They continue to grieve the death of their son by suicide.

Shannon – Losing is a life skill

Shannon shares about losing her husband to suicide, her parents and her father-in-law. She felt broken and to be able to take care of her kids and her self seemed overwhelming. It took someone telling her that you can heal from trauma to give her hope for healing.

Russell – “Going back to work”

Russell talks about the process of going back to work. Russell continues to grieve the perinatal death of his son.

Nicole – Grieving as a community

Nicole discusses the power of grieving together as a community. Finding connection and trust.

Sarah K – Talking to my kids

Sarah discusses the challenges of discussing her kids about their Dad;s death to heroin and helping them on their journey through grief

Donna B – “When the death is public”

Donna discusses healing and a public death. Donna continues to grieve the death her son during service in Afghanistan.

Donna B – “5 Generations of Service”

Donna talks about her son and how her family understands service. Donna continues to grieve the death her son during service in Afghanistan.