Offering hope, comfort and support for survivors of suicide loss.
The number of suicides among veterans and active duty military personnel is unfortunately staggering. We know several readers have experienced the loss of a loved one during or after their time of service but have not yet touched on this unique perspective. We are extremely appreciative of guest blogger Katherine, particularly heading into this holiday weekend, for sharing about her beloved boyfriend, Shane, mere weeks into her grief ...
I think society has led us to believe that crying is a sign of weakness. If we still cry, we must not have moved forward since losing our loved one to suicide. I lost my dad three and a half years ago, almost exactly to the day. I still cry. A song will come on the radio, a memory will surface, a holiday will pass, and I will be reminded that my dad is no longer here. Tears will fall, and sadness will overcome me. Does this mean that I ...
“The life of the party…” It’s a phrase I’ve heard many survivors use when describing a loved one lost to suicide. I frequently say the same thing about my dad; he could take over a room with his jokes, he had a contagious belly laugh and he was known for his quick wit. In addition to breathing life into a party, he often planned them. We celebrated big things, little things and everything in between - from half birthdays to good grades. For my ...
Here in Chicago, we experience a number of dreary days. Especially during the winter months. I wake up thinking, "When will I ever see the sun again?!" The first few months, even years following a loss by suicide can feel like living without sunshine. Every task seems impossible. But just like the Chicago winter, the rain and gloom does pass, and the sun does shine again. ...
Celebrating Father's Day without dad can be difficult for those who have lost a father to suicide. I still feel this sense of sadness when I visit the dreaded card aisle at our local pharmacy. As I pick out the cards for the fathers in my life, I am quickly reminded that there is one card I will not be purchasing. I have found this holiday to be particularly difficult. Not necessarily because my father is not here to celebrate, but because I am ...
