Helping Others In Their Journey

Lessons in Loss, Love and Resilience

I’m honored to be one of the keynote speakers this July at The Compassionate Friends National Conference in Bellevue, Washington.

People often ask me how—or why—I speak. They wonder if it’s “healing.” For me, it’s not so much about healing as it is about fulfillment.

During Alaina’s life, I couldn’t imagine how any parent could survive the loss of a child. But after her murder, the outpouring of love from our communities and the countless acts of kindness helped us endure the unimaginable. The pain is still there, but the resilience to carry on has been built through that love and support.

When I share my story with others who are navigating their own stages of grief, if it helps even one person feel less alone, then it’s deeply fulfilling. It’s humbling to sit with someone in their heartache, to acknowledge it, and to walk alongside them for even a moment.

To think that over 1,000 people will be gathered—each carrying their own loss—while I speak about love, loss, and resilience... my hope is that even one of them walks away with a small measure of comfort, a reminder that they can and will get through this journey.

If you know someone who is struggling, please tell them about this conference. It offers real support and comfort to so many.
compassionatefriends.org