Artwork by Riley
Resources for Grievers
The following are a list of resources Riley’s Mum found helpful in her own grief. These books, podcasts, and other resources DO NOT replace the need to speak to a medical provider or counselor if you are in crisis. This is simply a compilation of her Mum’s own tools as she traverses grief, loss, trauma and life lessons as a mum. Her beliefs do not need to mirror your own but there are common threads in each of us. Each person’s journey in grief is unique. There is no one right way to grieve.
“There is no roadmap in grief.”
Riley’s Mum’s Book Recommendations for Traumatic Grief and Loss
Bearing the Unbearable by Dr. Joanne Cacciatore (Given to me by a dear friend and “guard” mum)
Grief is a Sneaky Bitch by Lisa Keefauver
Grief Gems by Sundari Malcolm
The Other Side of Yet by Michelle Hord
As Long As You Need Permission to Grieve by J.S. Park
Signs by Laura Lynn Jackson (Given to me by another one of Riley’s friend’s mums who walks her own grief story)
Closer to the Light by Melvin Morse (Given to me by another mother who found her own comfort as she went through her own loss)
Tear Soup by Pat Schwiebert and Chuck DeKlyen
Many Lives Many Masters by Brian L. Weiss, MD
From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death by Caitlin Doughty - the things I wish I had known I could have done for a funeral and to memorialize my daughter. No one knows what to ask for when death comes (expected or not). I wish I had done many things differently for Riley, myself, my family and community. I wish I had been braver to speak up. One of Riley’s BFFs recommended it to me!
Riley’s Mum’s Podcast Recommendations for Traumatic Grief and Loss
Grief is a Sneaky Bitch Podcast (w/Lisa Keefauver) - covers many types of grief and loss. Listen on your favorite podcast platform.
Note: some of the topics discussed in these podcasts can be difficult. Please know yourself and your limits!
Riley’s Mum’s Other Helpful resources related to Traumatic Grief and Loss
The Miss Foundation - specific for those who have had a child loss.
Selah Carefarm - they may be more specific for those who have had a child loss.
The Dougy Center - a grief resource for children and families before and after a death.