Open to Hope Articles
Do you want to read stories of others who have been where you are? Are you looking for bereavement help, and advice? Look no further. We offer over 3,000 articles written by our Open to Hope authors.
SORT BY RELATIONSHIP
Dr. Donna Shuurman – The Grief Pill is Coming; What to Know Before You Swallow It!
January 31, 2024
With a remarkable 35-year association with The Dougy Center, the inaugural bereavement center for children in the United States, Dr. Donna Schuurman stands as an internationally recognized authority in the field of grief, focusing on bereaved children, teenagers, and families. As the author of “Never the Same: Coming to Terms with the Death of a Parent,” Donna has contributed significantly to the discourse on coping with loss. Her expertise has attracted attention from various media outlets, including The New York Times, USA Today, and Redbook, where she has been featured in interviews. Donna’s commitment extends to her role on the […]
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Dr. Ken Druck: A Refresher Class in Hope
January 31, 2024
Dr. Ken Druck, a globally recognized expert in the process of healing after loss, has been honored with the Distinguished Contribution to Psychology Award. Renowned as a pioneering figure in the realm of Grief Literacy, a term he himself coined, Ken is acknowledged as a visionary leader. Engaging in a multifaceted approach to sharing his expertise, he imparts knowledge through teaching, training, delivering keynote speeches, writing best-selling books, coaching, and facilitating grief support groups and workshops. His most recent acclaimed work, “How We Go On: Self-Compassion, Courage, and Gratitude on the Path Forward,” has garnered attention from prominent figures such […]
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Episode 212: Embracing Hope Anew After Multiple Losses
January 22, 2024
Discover hope amidst multiple losses with insights from Dr. Gloria Horsley, Dr. Heidi Horsley, Jennifer O’Brien, and Dr. Barbara Hopkinson. Explore their personal journeys of overcoming the initial belief that finding hope was impossible. Jennifer O’Brien, author of the award-winning book “The Hospice Doctor’s Widow: A Journal,” and Dr. Barbara Hopkinson, founder of “A Butterfly’s Journey,” a non-profit focusing on resilience after loss, share their experiences of ultimately finding hope despite initial doubts.
Merry Go Round and Round: Rhythms of Grief
January 22, 2024
Merry Go Round My mom made it a priority to take me and my siblings to the Smithsonian to visit the touring exhibits that came through the D.C. museums. I am the eldest of four, and amidst our collective moans and groans over another trek downtown from the suburbs in her diesel station wagon, my mom promised a ride or two on the lone carousel on the National Mall as a treat. I loved the carousel; I remember when it was installed in 1981. We were delighted by what seemed a whimsical addition to the stately mall. A blue and […]
Mel Lawrenz: Transforming Intense Pain into a Soothing Balm
January 18, 2024
Curious about navigating the loss of an adult child? Tune in to a heartfelt discussion with Drs. Gloria and Heidi Horsley, along with their guest Mel Lawrenz. Mel, a former pastor, shares his journey of overcoming the profound grief following the death of his 30-year-old daughter, Evia. An acclaimed author of 20 personal growth books, including his latest work “A Chronicle of Grief: Finding Life After Traumatic Loss,” Mel provides insights into finding healing after devastating loss. https://media.blubrry.com/open_to_hope_1/content.blubrry.com/open_to_hope_1/Mel-Lawrenz-Transforming-Intense-Pain-into-a-Soothing-Balm.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Colin Campbell: Exploring Guilt in Laughter Amid Grief
January 16, 2024
Join Drs. Gloria and Heidi Horsley, along with their guest Colin Campbell, bereaved father of Ruby and Hart. Together, they delve into the paradox of feeling guilt when finding moments of joy in the midst of grief. Colin, created a solo performance piece titled “Grief: A One Man Shit-Show” and is the author of “Finding the Words: Working Through Profound Loss with Hope and Purpose”. He shares insights into navigating the complex emotions surrounding loss and laughter. https://media.blubrry.com/open_to_hope_1/content.blubrry.com/open_to_hope_1/Colin-Campbell-Exploring-Guilt-in-Laughter-Amid-Grief.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Johnny Sirpilla: Navigating Through Personal Tragedies
January 11, 2024
Are you looking for help on how to cope with your losses? Join Dr’s Gloria and Heidi Horsley and their guest Johnny Sirpilla bereaved dad, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur, former president of Camping World and Good Sam. In his book “Life is Hard butI’ll be Okay,” Jonny shares his insights and perspectives on dealing with life after loss. https://media.blubrry.com/open_to_hope_1/content.blubrry.com/open_to_hope_1/Johnny-Sirpilla-Navigating-Through-Personal-Tragedies.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Seeking Comfort after a Child Dies
January 8, 2024
Pain After a Child Dies I’ll say this clearly: parents aren’t expected to live to bury their children. And when we do, the impact can be heartbreaking, devastating. Although the wounds mend, they are never fully healed—especially during holidays, birthdays, graduations, wedding ceremonies, and even when embracing someone else’s child or grandchild. In the beginning, the tears flowed outwardly, but later they would flow inwardly. Eventually, I found some comfort. Certain things did help, like the day the nurse came and stated, “I wanted you to know we didn’t let her die alone. When it was time, I stayed with her […]
The Shock of Losing a Child
January 8, 2024
Returning to the Place Excitement coursed through my veins as I anticipated my appointment in Glastonbury, England. Thirteen years had passed since I stood in this exact spot. I couldn’t resist sprinting up High Street and turning right on Wells Road. I slowed down from fear and perspiration on this hot August morning as I approached my destination. The shock of seeing the Abbey House through its huge gate was overwhelming. I leaned against the 10-foot-high stone wall that surrounded the property. I needed to catch my breath and focus on why I came. The charcoal-gray stones were cool and […]
