Grief and Trauma

Krista – “Range of emotions”

Krista talks about the journey towards acceptance.

Krista – “It’s ok to be uncomfortable”

Krista discusses ways to move forward.

Sarah K – Talking about the cause of death

Sarah talks about husbands death to a heroin overdose and stigmatized death.

Krista – “Things you can do that help”

Krista shares some of the things that help her through the grieving process.

Sarah K – Humour to cope

Sarah discuss how humour has been a tool in helping her to cope

Bryan – Vulnerability

Bryan talks about things are not always OK and that’s OK and things are going to get better

Tending to My Garden of Grief

So long as I remember the lives of those I have lost, honour their presence and impact on me and celebrate their spirit, they will continue to live with me and the pain will feel bearable. It will no longer stop me in my tracks. Instead, it will encourage me and propel me forward through the transmutation of that grief into something different, something more nuanced and fluid. I’d like to share a practice for processing grief which I have found to be especially helpful.

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.

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.

Donna B – “Tools for a year of firsts”

Donna discusses how to look after yourself. Donna continues to grieve the death her son during service in Afghanistan.

Russell – “Questions people ask”

Russell discusses how he answers the hardest questions people ask. Russell continues to grieve the perinatal death of his son.

Rev. Sky – “Sharing”

Rev. Sky explains how sharing helps you heal.