The start of spring is considered a time of renewal and revitalization as mindsets reflect the changes happening in nature. New blooms, warming weather, longer daylight hours can positively impact feelings of hope. However, for many grievers, the freshness...
I lost my older brother. I’m not sure those words will ever feel real to me but I know they are. During my sibling group the other night, I realized it will be 7 years in July. It blew my mind. That’s a long time. Well, it’s a long time for me. Banks, lawyers,...
Joshua Quinn Faithfull On March 26, 2017, Joshua Quinn Faithfull, my soul mate & beloved son had his life tragically cut short from a malignant transformation of his congenital Neurocutaneous Melanosis (NCM). Joshua’s entire life was fraught with painful...
Recommendations for Books on Grief, Trauma, and Meaning Recently I was asked for recommendations for books on grief, trauma, and how to find meaning through immeasurable sadness and doubt about the future. Fortunately, a few days later I found myself hosting one...
The “Second Anniversaries” I often hear grieving individuals talk about the difficulty of entering a new year. For the newly bereaved, it is the first year in which they will live without their loved one physically with them. For the rest, it is yet...
I think Rob Delaney has been a sensitive, thoughtful, and influential figure relating to grief and loss since he lost his son a few years ago. I haven’t gotten myself to fully read his new book, but I’ve read and watched multiple interviews and articles about...
2023. For some of you, this is the start of the first new year you’re living with the loss of your loved one. For others, this may be your twentieth new year. I remember the start of 2017 – that was my first new year without my older brother. I was so afraid to...
A new year often comes with resolutions with the goal of doing or being “better.” For 2023, we hope that instead you all resolve to treat yourselves with compassion and kindness, be gentle with your hearts, and reach out for the support you need to cope with...
My son His name is Preston Roy Heikkinen “Roy Boy” we lost him July 8, 2021 horrifically. He was the best boy in the whole world. He was the best big brother the best son that anybody could ever ask for. He never entered a room that he wasn’t singing & bopping...
Greetings – After a fulfilling Thanksgiving weekend with family and an amazingly impactful #GivingTuesday COPE fundraising drive, I find myself reflecting on the year that is winding down. My first as Co-President of COPE’s board. The organization’s first...
