While We're Waiting® - Hope After Child Loss

308 | Tattered Hearts, Hopeful Souls (Part One) with Leanne Davidson

Wed, 20 May 2026 03:00:00 -0500

“Our hearts may be tattered, but they are still useful in God’s hands.”

In this first half of my conversation with author Leanne Davidson, she shares the story of her son, Mikael — a compassionate, funny, energetic young man who loved people deeply and brought joy and laughter wherever he went. She also opens up about the difficult journey of walking alongside a child struggling with addiction and the devastating day her family lost Mikael to a fentanyl overdose in 2022.

Leanne speaks honestly about the complicated realities of addiction, the challenges families face along the way, and the ways God met her in the immediate aftermath of unimaginable loss. She also shares the heart behind her books A Beautiful Pain: Reflections of a Mother’s Journey of Grief and Tattered Hearts & Hopeful Souls: A Christian Devotional for Grieving Hearts.

Together we discuss:

• Mikael’s vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him
• Walking alongside a child battling addiction
• How addiction affected family relationships
• Establishing healthy boundaries while preserving connection
• The trauma and heartbreak of sudden loss
• The ways God carried Leanne through the earliest days of grief
• Why she chose the phrase “tattered hearts” for her devotional title
• Psalm 56:8 and the comfort of knowing God counts every tear
• The importance of lament and bringing our pain honestly before God

Leanne’s story is filled with sorrow, honesty, perseverance, and hope. If you are a grieving parent, especially one walking the unique path of addiction-related loss, I believe you will find comfort in her words and encouragement in her faith.

Resources & Links:

• Leanne Davidson’s website: A Mother's Grief Journey
• A Beautiful Pain: Reflections of a Mother’s Journey of Grief
• Tattered Hearts & Hopeful Souls: A Christian Devotional for Grieving Hearts

In next week’s episode, Leanne and I continue our conversation as we talk about guilt, unanswered questions, joy, supporting grieving families, and learning to live with a heart that has been forever changed. Be sure to come back for that!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry.

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Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parents

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Contact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

307 | Even Though, We Will (Part Two) with Matthew Efird

Wed, 13 May 2026 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode features the second half of my conversation with Matthew Efird, as we move beyond Noah’s earthly 57½ hours and into the difficult road of learning how to live after he went to Heaven. (If you missed the first half of our conversation, click HERE.)

Matthew shares candidly about grief from a father’s perspective, which is something that often goes unseen, particularly after the death of a baby. He talks about the tension of wanting to protect and fix what can't be fixed, the importance of having other men show up and simply be present, and the practical ways friends and community carried their family through the hardest days.

We also discuss the emotional fog of grief, learning to take life one moment at a time, and the delicate balance of worshiping and weeping simultaneously. Throughout the conversation, Matthew continually points back to the faith that sustained his family and the phrase that became their foundation: Even though… we will.

This episode is filled with wisdom for grieving parents, especially dads, as well as practical insight for anyone who wants to walk alongside hurting families in meaningful ways.

In this episode, we discuss:

Grief from a father’s perspective
Why dads often feel unseen after infant loss
The importance of safe friendships and honest conversations
Helpful ways men supported Matthew during grief
Learning that “it’s okay to have a good day”
Practical advice for grieving dads
Why presence matters more than perfect words
The meaning behind “worshiping and weeping” at the same time
Taking grief one moment—and one step—at a time
The role of community in surviving loss
Common phrases to avoid when comforting grieving parents
The heart behind Matthew’s book and the Even Though We Will Foundation

Resources & Links:

Even Though We Will written by Matthew Efird

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

306 | Even Though, We Will (Part One) with Matthew Efird

Wed, 06 May 2026 03:00:00 -0500

Matthew Efird and his wife, Hannah, were joyfully expecting their second son when the word "abnormalities" during a routine ultrasound changed everything. What followed was a journey into anticipatory grief after their son Noah was diagnosed with Trisomy 13, a condition often described as “incompatible with life.”

In today's episode, Matthew shares what it was like to walk through the remainder of the pregnancy with that knowledge—holding both hope and heartbreak at the same time. He talks about how he and Hannah navigated those months together, how they learned to communicate in the middle of grief, and the intentional ways they chose to spend their time with Noah before he was born.

Matthew also shares about Noah’s birth and the unexpected gift of 57½ hours together — time to hold him, to introduce him to family, and to fully experience what it meant to parent their son on this side of heaven.

In this episode, we discuss:

The joy of expecting a second child after a season of waiting
The moment everything changed at a routine ultrasound
Processing the word “abnormalities” and a Trisomy 13 diagnosis
Walking through anticipatory grief during pregnancy
How Matthew and Hannah supported each other in their marriage
Two simple but powerful questions that helped them communicate in grief
Choosing to be intentional with the time they had with Noah
Noah’s birth and the gift of 57½ hours together
What it meant to parent Noah during his brief life

Be sure to join us next week for the second half of this conversation, when Matthew shares what life looked like after Noah’s passing and offers insight into grief from a father’s perspective.

Resources & Links:

Matthew’s book: Even Though We Will
Website: https://eventhoughwewill.com/

If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to share it with someone who may need encouragement today.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

305 | Circle of Sorrow (Part Two) with Keallie Wozny

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of my conversation with Keallie Wozny, we shift from Trevor’s story to what it looks like to live in the aftermath of his death.

Keallie shares with honesty and clarity about the questions that so many suicide loss parents carry — questions like why and could I have done something to prevent this? She reminds us that while those questions are natural, we are not always given the answers we long for — and learning to trust God with the unknown becomes an important part of the journey.

We also talk about the realities that aren’t always openly discussed:
the stigma surrounding suicide loss, the fear that suicide might be an unforgivable sin, and the uncertainty some parents carry about their child’s eternity. Keallie gently points listeners back to the truth of Scripture and the character of God — merciful, compassionate, and trustworthy.

Throughout this conversation, Keallie offers deeply practical insight drawn from her own experience:

The physical toll of grief and how it affects the body
The importance of community and being cared for by others
How to approach milestones, anniversaries, and unexpected triggers
Why seeking “signs” from loved ones can be misleading—and how to instead recognize God’s presence
What it looks like to worship, even when you don’t have the strength to sing

She also shares simple but powerful encouragement for those early in their grief journey — that joy does return, even if it looks different than before. As she beautifully puts it, grief and joy can coexist.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with Keallie.

Click HERE to find Keallie's book "Circle of Sorrow" on Amazon.

Click HERE to follow Keallie on Instagram.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

304 | Circle of Sorrow (Part One) with Keallie Wozny

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0500

In this first half of my conversation with Keallie Wozny, we begin by getting to know her son, Trevor, as she shares stories from his childhood, his love of music, his strong work ethic, and his desire to serve others, including his dream of becoming a Marine.

But as his story unfolds, things begin to shift.

What follows is a difficult and complex journey as Trevor begins to struggle with mental health challenges that grow increasingly severe. Keallie walks us through those changes with remarkable clarity, offering an honest look at what their family experienced as confusion, fear, and uncertainty began to take hold.

This episode includes a detailed account of the days leading up to Trevor’s death by suicide. While this is a hard story to hear, it’s one that reflects the reality many families face ... and one that deserves to be told with both honesty and care.

You may recognize Keallie as the author of the book Circle of Sorrow. In our conversation, she explains that this title comes from the realization that, after losing a child, you are ushered into a kind of fellowship of suffering. It’s a circle no one chooses to join, and yet within it, there is a shared understanding among those who walk this road. It is both a painful place to be and, at the same time, a place where you are not alone.

And even in the midst of this heartbreaking story, you’ll hear glimpses of God’s presence ... moments of grace, truth, and redemption that would become anchors for Keallie and her family in the days ahead.

Coming Next:

In next week's episode, Keallie shares what it has looked like to live in the aftermath of Trevor’s death. We’ll talk about the questions many parents carry, the stigma surrounding suicide loss, and the practical ways she has learned to walk through grief with faith and honesty.

Get a copy of Keallie's book, Circle of Sorrow, HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

303 | Branches of Grace (Part Two) with Tom and Heather Snyir

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0500

“You’re not broken… you’re becoming.” ~Tom Snyir

In this second half of our conversation, Tom and Heather Snyir share what life has looked like in the days, months, and years since their daughter Katie Rae went to Heaven.

We talk about the realities of everyday grief - navigating the things people say, learning to live with “grief brain,” and facing simple questions that suddenly feel anything but simple.

Tom and Heather also reflect on how grief has changed them - how it’s reshaped their perspective, their relationships, and the way they move through the world.

Tom opens up about his personal journey with PTSD, depression, and suicidal thoughts, and the people and faith that helped carry him through. He also shares about his devotional book, Branches of Grace, and the message of hope it offers to those walking through trauma and loss.

This conversation is honest, practical, and full of insight for anyone navigating life after the loss of a child.

Key Takeaways

Presence matters more than words when supporting someone in grief
You are allowed to set boundaries and protect your heart
Grief changes you ... and that doesn’t mean something is wrong
You don’t have to walk through dark seasons alone
Healing and pain can exist side by side

Resources & Mentions

Tom's book: Branches of Grace: Devotions from the Front Lines of Faith is available on Amazon. Click HERE to find it.
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

302 | Branches of Grace (Part One) with Tom and Heather Snyir

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0500

"God doesn’t always remove the suffering—He enters into it with us.”

In this first half of our conversation, Tom and Heather Snyir share the story of their daughter, Katie Rae—a creative, joyful teenager who made everyone around her feel like they were her best friend.

Katie was diagnosed with leukemia at just four years old. Tom and Heather share what it was like to navigate months of treatment, a bone marrow transplant, and the gift of more than a decade of remission.

Then, as a teenager, Katie was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and deadly form of brain cancer. In this episode, Tom and Heather begin sharing what that journey looked like for their family and how they walked through those difficult days together until Katie went to Heaven.

Throughout this conversation, you’ll hear how their faith was stretched and sustained—not through easy answers, but through God’s presence in the middle of uncertainty.

Resources & Mentions

Tom Snyir’s book: Branches of Grace: Devotions from the Front Lines of Faith - Available HERE.

Coming Next

In next week's episode, Tom and Heather share what life has looked like since Katie went to Heaven. We talk about grief in everyday life, how people respond to loss, and Tom shares more of his personal journey through PTSD, depression, and finding hope.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

301 | Meet Me at the Gate (Part Two) with Leah Marie

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0500

Today I resume my conversation with Leah Sweetman, as she shares what the last two years have looked like since the loss of her son, Nathan.

She talks honestly about the first year of grief—the intensity of it, the impact it had on her thoughts and physical health, and the difficulty of approaching significant dates and milestones. Leah also reflects on how her experience has changed over time. Not becoming easier ... but different.

We also discuss the tension many parents feel when they begin to notice even small shifts in their grief. Leah offers a helpful perspective: Moving forward does not mean leaving your child behind—it means getting closer to the day you'll see them again.

This episode includes practical encouragement for newly bereaved parents, especially those who have walked through addiction or complicated relationships with their child. Leah emphasizes the importance of being patient with yourself, giving grief space, and continuing to trust God one day at a time.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

The first year of grief and anticipatory grief around milestones
How the second year can feel different
The physical and neurological impact of grief
Learning to function while grieving
The tension around “moving forward”
Giving grief intentional space
Encouragement for parents of prodigal children
Trusting God with your child’s life and future
How loss can reshape perspective and faith

Leah’s Support Group (Bereaved Moms):

Zoom meeting: Third Wednesday of each month at 8:00 PM Eastern
Text “grief” to 502-206-2255 for reminders

Listen to the first half of Leah's story HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

300 | Meet Me at the Gate (Part One) with Leah Marie

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0500

“Meet me at the gate, Nate.”

In this first half of our conversation, Leah Sweetman shares the story of her son Nathan—a bright, imaginative, strong-willed young man who brought both great joy and deep challenges to their family. As Leah introduces us to Nathan, we begin to understand not only who he was, but the complexity of the road he walked.

From an early age, Nathan struggled with behavioral and mental health challenges that eventually led to addiction. Leah speaks candidly about the impact this had on their family—the fear, the chaos, the exhaustion, and the deep love that never wavered.

This episode also explores what it means to surrender when your child is struggling and you cannot fix it. Leah shares how God met her in those moments of desperation and began teaching her what true surrender looks like—not giving up, but placing her son into God’s hands.

You’ll also hear the story behind the phrase Leah now carries with her: “Meet me at the gate, Nate.” A simple expression that holds both grief and the steady hope of reunion.

This is an honest and powerful beginning to a story that many will recognize in pieces of their own.

If this episode resonates with you, please consider sharing it with another grieving parent. And if you haven’t already, leaving a rating or review helps others find hope in the midst of loss.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

299 | A Faithful Paradox (Part Two) with Kirsten Black

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the While We’re Waiting – Hope After Child Loss podcast, I continue my conversation with Kirsten Black, author of the Faithful Paradox blog.

In Part One, Kirsten shared about her son Ezra, his battle with leukemia, and the early realities of grief that reshaped her life and faith. Today, we pick up where we left off, continuing our discussion of her blog post, “10 Things That Are Different From What I Expected.” Listen HERE to Part One of our conversation.

Today Kirsten offers honest insight into some of the more complex and often unexpected aspects of grief—especially within the context of family, faith, and daily life.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How family members often grieve differently—and how to extend grace in those differences
• Why healing can bring its own kind of sorrow
• The difference between joy and happiness in the midst of grief
• The quiet, ongoing reminders of loss in everyday life
• Why faith does not necessarily make grief feel easier
• The desire to be “unknown”—and why that doesn’t remove the pain
• Learning to live without clear answers or understanding
• The reality that hard days still come, even years later

Kirsten also shares reflections from her third year of grief, including a deepened longing for heaven, a shift in how she views grief—not as something to overcome, but something to gently carry—and the reminder that truth does not always bring immediate comfort, but it is still worth holding onto.

Toward the end of the episode, Kirsten offers thoughtful encouragement for parents who are in the early days of grief, reminding them that this journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and that they do not have to walk it alone.

This conversation is both honest and hopeful—a reminder that while grief changes us, God remains faithful, even in the tension we don’t fully understand.

Links & Resources

Visit Kirsten's blog here: Faithful Paradox Blog

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

298 | A Faithful Paradox (Part One) with Kirsten Black

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the While We’re Waiting – Hope After Child Loss podcast, Jill Sullivan begins a two-part conversation with Kirsten Black, author of the Faithful Paradox blog.

Kirsten shares about her son Ezra, a gifted musician and passionate soccer player who had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and loved. In 2021, Ezra became sick and was eventually diagnosed with leukemia. After a difficult fourteen-month battle that included intense chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, Ezra went to heaven in September of 2022.

About a year and a half later, Kirsten began writing about her grief journey through her blog, Faithful Paradox. In it, she explores the tension many grieving believers experience—the reality that we know God’s promises are true, yet in the middle of suffering those truths can feel confusing, distant, or difficult to reconcile with our pain.

In this first half of our conversation, Kirsten shares about Ezra’s life, his cancer journey, and the honest prayers she wrestled through during those months. We also begin discussing a blog post she wrote titled “10 Things That Are Different From What I Expected,” reflecting on the surprising ways grief reshapes our lives.

Together we explore some of those unexpected realities, including:

• The mistaken belief that grief has a timeline
• How the loss of a child fundamentally changes who we are
• The realization that grief is not just an event—it becomes part of us

Kirsten’s reflections are thoughtful, honest, and deeply relatable for grieving parents who are trying to hold on to faith in the middle of profound loss.

This conversation reminds us that grief and faith often exist together in tension—a faithful paradox.

In the next episode, we’ll continue walking through the rest of Kirsten’s “ten things” and talk about what she has learned in the years since Ezra went to heaven.

Links & Resources

Faithful Paradox Blog: faithfulparadox.com

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

297 | Romans 8:28 for the Broken

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0600

If you’re a regular listener, you know that we typically feature conversations with parents who have experienced the loss of a child on this podcast. However, when a good friend posted a link to this sermon on Romans 8:28 in our private “While We're Waiting – Support for Bereaved Parents” Facebook group a couple weeks ago, I knew it was something I wanted to share with you.

Kirk Miller is the speaker, and he is a member of Redeemer Church in Huntsville, Alabama. He’s a former pastor and church planter and now is editor of digital content at Logos where he edits and writes for Word by Word.

I wanted to share this because I know what a complicated relationship many bereaved parents have with Romans 8:28! This often is the first verse that those who are trying to help a grieving parent will quote.

Kirk acknowledges how this verse, offered too quickly, can feel less like a lifeline and more like a slap in the face—rushing sufferers toward a silver lining, dismissing real pain, or subtly implying that ongoing grief is a failure of faith.

In this episode, Kirk will offer six clarifications on what this this scripture means – and does not mean – for those who are suffering. I pray that this sermon both enlightens and encourages you, just like it did for me.

While we’re waiting to see our children again, may the Lord hold you close and strengthen your heart.

Click HERE to watch this sermon on YouTube.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

296 | One Chapter at a Time (Part Two) with Tricia Patrick

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0600

"God doesn’t ask us to live the whole story at once. He walks us through it chapter by chapter.”

In this second half of my conversation with Tricia Patrick, we move beyond the events of February 2014 and into the long journey that followed the loss of her son Jeremy to suicide.

Tricia describes those early days as a fog — returning to work just ten days after Jeremy went to heaven, sitting with her Bible open and unable to process the words, and simply trying to survive one hour at a time. And yet, even in the fog, she kept showing up.

What she discovered over time is something many grieving parents need to hear: God did not require her to process everything at once. He walked her through grief in chapters.

A chapter might last weeks or months. One season focused on survival. Another on Scripture. Later, she was able to face the complicated layers unique to suicide loss — the stigma, the anger, the cultural triggers, and the difficult questions. She didn’t have to solve it all in the beginning. God was gracious to let her heal one layer at a time.

This is an honest conversation about suicide loss, but it is also a conversation about endurance, Scripture, worship, and a Shepherd who carries His lambs close to His heart.

If you are in the early chapters of grief, please hear this: you do not have to resolve every question today. You do not have to face every layer at once. God is patient. He is gentle. And He will walk with you through each chapter — one at a time.

Click HERE to find Tricia's "Sharing Jeremy's Joy" Facebook page and get involved!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

295 | One Chapter at a Time (Part One) with Tricia Patrick

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0600

“You don’t have to resolve every layer of grief at once. God works in chapters.”

Today's episode begins a two-part conversation with my new friend Tricia Patrick. In this first episode, you’ll get to know her son Jeremy — a miracle baby, a football-loving, bow-tie wearing, big-hearted young man who adored children and dreamed of opening an orphanage one day. You’ll hear about the complicated years following her divorce, the restoration that came after Jeremy placed his faith in Christ, and the devastating night in February 2014 when everything changed.

This is an honest conversation about suicide loss, about surrendering a child into God’s hands, and about trusting Him even when the outcome isn’t what we prayed for.

Be sure to come back for Part Two next week, when we move into the years after Jeremy went to heaven. Tricia will speak candidly about the early fog of grief — returning to work just days later, sitting with her Bible open and unable to process the words, and wrestling with the stigma and complicated emotions that often accompany suicide loss. She'll also explain how God gently allowed her to process her grief in “chapters,” addressing one layer at a time rather than forcing her to face everything at once.

This is an honest and hope-filled conversation about suicide loss, surrender, healing over time, and the faithfulness of a Good Shepherd who carries us — and our children — close to His heart.

If you are in the early days of grief, please know you are not alone. You don’t have to figure it all out right now. God is patient. He is gentle. And He will walk with you through every chapter.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

294 | Shaken, But Not Abandoned (Part Two) with Kristi Kirk

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0600

If you’ve lost your song, that doesn’t mean it’s gone forever.

In this second half of my conversation with Kristi Kirk, we focus on what healing can look like over time after devastating loss. Kristi reflects on the long road of grief following the death of both her husband and her son, and how her faith, perspective, and purpose have been slowly reshaped.

Kristi shares what it meant to walk through her son’s senior year without him, how fear gradually loosened its grip, and how she learned to live forward without leaving her son behind. She speaks honestly about the difference between feelings and truth, and how anchoring herself in God’s Word became essential as faith was rebuilt.

This episode also explores worship and music—how Kristi lost her song after loss, and how it returned in time as a quiet expression of healing. Along the way, she offers practical wisdom for those in early grief, encouragement to stay connected to community, and permission to lament without shame.

Rather than offering a neat resolution, this conversation affirms that grief remains—and reminds us that though we may be shaken, we are not abandoned by God.

Click HERE to connect with Kristi!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

293 | Shaken, But Not Abandoned (Part One) with Kristi Kirk

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0600

When life no longer feels safe or predictable, trust in God can feel fragile.

In this first half of my conversation with Kristi Kirk, we talk about what it means to be shaken to the core by loss—and how faith can be tested, reshaped, and rebuilt in the aftermath.

Kristi shares her story of profound grief, including the sudden death of her husband and, less than two years later, the loss of her 18-year-old son, PK. She speaks honestly about fear, trauma, and the struggle to trust God when life no longer feels secure and the future feels uncertain.

This episode focuses on the early terrain of grief: the shock, the unanswered questions, and the fear that “the next shoe might drop.” Kristi reflects on how losing her assumptions about protection and control led her into a deeper, more honest relationship with God—one marked by lament, transparency, and the slow work of learning to separate feelings from truth.

Rather than offering easy answers, this conversation makes space for grief as it really is, while holding onto the truth that even when our faith feels shaken, God has not abandoned us.

To connect with Kristi, visit her website HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

292 | A Life Worth Living (Part Two) with Ken and Mary Sue Grein

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0600

Today, we resume our conversation with Ken and Mary Sue Grein as they recount the events surrounding their son Jacob’s unexpected passing in 2019, the way their family was gathered together, and the profound sense of God’s presence in those hours. They speak honestly about shock, sorrow, and the weight of saying goodbye, while also sharing moments of comfort, reassurance, and hope that met them in the midst of deep grief.

We also explore what the long road of loving and losing Jacob has taught them—about surrender, about living with unanswered questions, and about allowing grief to unfold without rushing it. Ken and Mary Sue offer gentle wisdom for grieving parents, encouraging listeners to feel what they feel, to take grief one day at a time, and to trust that God meets us even when the pain doesn’t quickly resolve.

As the conversation continues, they reflect on Jacob’s ongoing legacy and the calling they felt to share his story through their book and beyond. Jacob’s life, they remind us, continues to speak—pointing others toward faith, compassion, and the enduring truth that every life is worth living.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of our conversation.

Social Media links for the Greins:

Facebook - Jacob's Story the Book ( https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579352574360)

Instagram - JacobGreinStory (https://www.instagram.com/jacobgreinstory/)

YouTube - @JacobGreinStory (https://www.youtube.com/@JacobGreinStory)

TikTok - @jacobgreinstory

website - jacobalifeworthliving.com

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

291 | A Life Worth Living (Part One) with Ken and Mary Sue Grein

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0600

Today I’m joined by Ken and Mary Sue Grein as they begin sharing the story of their son Jacob—a story that would shape their family, their faith, and their understanding of what gives a life meaning.

Our conversation takes us into the early years of Jacob’s life, including his fragile beginning, a prolonged hospital journey, and the realities of raising a child with significant disabilities. Ken and Mary Sue reflect on the emotional and practical challenges they faced, as well as the unexpected joy and purpose they discovered along the way.

They talk about Jacob’s personality, his love for people, his unique way of communicating, and the quiet ways he ministered to others. Ken and Mary Sue also share how their questions, grief, and uncertainty gradually gave way to trust—and how Jacob became a teacher in their home, shaping their hearts and their perspective.

In next week's episode, Ken and Mary Sue will continue sharing Jacob’s story—walking us through the day his earthly journey came to an end, the sacred moments that followed, and the way God has met them in grief, healing, and hope. They’ll also reflect on what Jacob’s life and legacy continue to teach them, and how his story is still reaching others today, so be sure to come back next week!

Social Media links for the Greins:

Facebook - Jacob's Story the Book ( https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579352574360)

Instagram - JacobGreinStory (https://www.instagram.com/jacobgreinstory/)

YouTube - @JacobGreinStory (https://www.youtube.com/@JacobGreinStory)

TikTok - @jacobgreinstory

website - jacobalifeworthliving.com

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

290 | When the House Grows Quiet (Part Two) with Dawn Helms

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode features a continuation of my conversation with Dawn Helms as we focus on life after the loss of her only child, Ben.

Dawn shares practical, compassionate wisdom for parents in the early days of grief—about accepting help, resisting isolation, and leaning into community even when it feels hard. She reflects on the quiet that follows years of caregiving, navigating everyday questions, and approaching holidays when traditions feel overwhelming.

Throughout our conversation, Dawn points to the faith that has sustained her—not a faith that takes the pain away, but one that meets her in it. She shares the Scriptures, music, and moments of God’s provision that have helped her keep going.

If you’re a grieving parent listening today, I want to remind you that you don’t have to walk this road alone. The While We’re Waiting ministry hosts free, faith-based retreats for bereaved parents across the country, offering space for rest, understanding, and community. I would love to have the opportunity to meet you at one of our retreats!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

289 | When the House Grows Quiet (Part One) with Dawn Helms

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode features the first half of my recent conversation with Dawn Helms, in which she shares the story of her only son Ben and the long journey of loving him through significant mental health challenges.

For years, Dawn lived in a constant state of vigilance—managing diagnoses, medications, school struggles, substance abuse, and periods of incarceration. Her home was rarely quiet, not because life was easy, but because Ben required constant attention and advocacy.

Dawn helps us get to know Ben beyond his struggles—his humor, compassion, and the deep bond they shared. She also reflects on a brief, sweet season when Ben was home before his death, and how everything changed for her when the caregiving ended and the house grew quiet.

This episode will be especially meaningful for parents who have lost an only child or who spent years living on high alert due to a child's mental health issues.

Be sure to return for next week's episode when Dawn will share more about the early days of grief, the choices that helped her survive, and how God met her in the quiet.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

288 | Grace for the Year Ahead

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

“Moving forward doesn’t mean leaving my child behind.”

As one year ends and another begins, many people are eager to turn the page. For bereaved parents, however, the arrival of a new year can feel heavy and overwhelming. A new calendar can make us feel like we're leaving our child behind—and that can be deeply painful.

In this encore episode, Jill shares ten faith-anchored resolutions shaped by her own journey of grief after the loss of her daughter, Hannah. These are not resolutions about self-improvement or moving on, but about extending grace, caring for a grieving heart, and leaning fully on God’s strength.

Originally recorded near the close of 2020 in the height of the Covid pandemic, this episode acknowledges both personal loss and collective weariness, offering encouragement for grieving parents entering a new year they may not feel ready to face.

In this episode, you’ll hear reflections on:

Why stepping into a new year can feel especially difficult after child loss
Being patient and kind with yourself as grief unfolds
Extending grace to others who don’t know what to say or do
Learning to communicate what you need—and honoring your limits
Finding joy in small, God-given moments
Letting go of guilt, blame, and “if only” thinking
Standing on God’s truth when emotions feel overwhelming
Depending on God’s strength when your own is gone

The episode closes with a prayer from Verdell Davis’s book Let Me Grieve, But Not Forever, reminding listeners of the deep lessons learned in the valley and the sustaining grace of God who meets us there.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

287 | Five Gifts for Broken Hearts

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

“The first Christmas came with gifts meant for broken hearts.”

Christmas is often one of the hardest seasons for parents grieving the loss of a child. Today, I reprise a solo episode originally recorded in 2020 during the height of the COVID pandemic which speaks into a time marked by isolation, uncertainty, and compounded grief. Separated from loved ones, surrounded by illness and fear, many bereaved parents were carrying more than ever before.

In this episode, I reflect on the Christmas story through the lens of Isaiah 9:6, focusing not on the gifts we exchange, but on the gifts given at the very moment Jesus was born.

In this episode, I discuss:

The gift of our Wonderful Counselor, when no human words are enough
The gift of our Mighty God, whose strength carries us in our weakness
The gift of our Everlasting Father, steady and committed now and forever
The gift of our Prince of Peace, offering peace with God amid chaos and sorrow
The gift of Immanuel—God with us, near to the brokenhearted and crushed in spirit

Through Scripture, personal reflection, and gentle encouragement, this episode reminds grieving parents that they are not alone—especially when traditions feel altered, expectations feel heavy, and the future feels uncertain.

A reminder for this season

When Christmas feels overwhelming…
When your heart aches for what used to be…
When your child’s name goes unspoken…
When a new year feels impossible to imagine…

God is with us.
That is the gift of Immanuel.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

286 | When Christmas Feels Broken

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Christmas can feel especially heavy after the death of a child. Traditions that once brought joy may now magnify the absence, and the expectations of the season can feel overwhelming for a heart that is grieving.

In this episode, I gather the voices of While We’re Waiting retreat and support group facilitators—bereaved moms and dads who share honest reflections and practical wisdom for navigating Christmas after loss. Their stories offer permission to do things differently, encouragement to take the season one moment at a time, and gentle ideas for honoring a child’s memory while holding space for grief.

You’ll hear about:

Giving yourself grace and lowering expectations
Accepting help and having an exit plan
Letting Christmas look different than it used to
Finding meaningful ways to remember and include your child
Allowing grief and joy to coexist
Anchoring your heart in the hope of Immanuel—God with us

There is no right way to do Christmas after loss. Take what is helpful, leave what is not, and know that you are not alone. Even when Christmas feels broken, God is near, and His light still shines in the darkness.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

285 | "GodPrints" in the Shattered Pieces (Part Two) with Jenny Leavitt

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In Part Two of my conversation with Jenny Leavitt, we continue exploring the GodPrints—God’s gentle fingerprints of presence and faithfulness—woven through her family’s grief journey after the loss of her son, Jacob.

Jenny shares how she and her husband learned to walk together through grief even when their personalities and coping styles differed. She talks about the emotional weight of anniversaries, holidays, and court dates, and how offering grace to one another became essential in those tender seasons.

We discuss how Jenny’s grief has changed over the last ten years, including the seasons when God felt silent and the comfort she found in Scripture, especially in the Psalms. Jenny also offers practical wisdom for navigating holidays and special dates, as well as how her family chose to honor the ten-year mark of Jacob’s homegoing.

She closes by pointing listeners to resources she’s created to support others who are grieving.

In this episode:

Grieving differently within a marriage
The challenge of anniversaries and milestones
How grief evolves over time
Finding God in seasons of silence
Navigating holidays and special dates
Marking ten years without Jacob

Click HERE to listen to the first half of our conversation!

Resources:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

284 | "Godprints" In the Shattered Pieces (Part One) with Jenny Leavitt

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this first half of a two-part conversation, I sit down with Jenny Leavitt — pastor’s wife, author of GodPrints, and bereaved mom — to hear the story of her son, Jacob, and the unmistakable “GodPrints” woven throughout her family’s journey.

Jenny begins by describing her earlier battle with stage four non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma while raising two very young boys, and how God used that season to prepare her heart in ways she wouldn’t fully understand until years later. She then introduces us to Jacob — a friendly, artistic, big-hearted high school senior — and recounts the tragic accident caused by a drunk driver that took Jacob’s life and left his older brother, Caleb, critically injured.

Throughout the episode, Jenny speaks honestly about the physical, emotional, and spiritual shock of those early days, the challenge of grieving one child while caring for another, and the surprising places where God’s fingerprints began to appear. She shares about a profound “GodPrint” uncovered just days after Jacob’s death — a handwritten piece Jacob created months earlier that offered their family deep assurance of his salvation and his walk with the Lord.

Jenny also offers compassionate, practical wisdom for newly bereaved parents: the importance of connection, the value of grace for yourself and others, and the reminder that you don’t have to walk this path alone.

Links Mentioned:

Be sure to join us next week for Part Two, where Jenny reflects on how her grief has evolved over the last ten years, how she and her husband navigate grieving differently, and the GodPrints they continue to see in their story.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

283 | When God Holds the Thread (Part Two) with Debra Amick

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this second half of my conversation with Debra Amick, we explore what life looked like after Chase went to Heaven and how God gently led her from deep grief toward renewed purpose.

A meaningful part of this episode centers on four anchors God gave her in the fog of grief:

Prayer support when she didn’t have strength of her own
Scripture placed throughout her home to remind her of what was true
Resting in God’s presence, allowing Him to meet her where words failed
Guarding her heart, choosing carefully what she allowed in during fragile days

Debra also describes the slow journey toward purpose—giving herself permission to hope again, listening for God’s direction, and discovering how her story could help others move from pain to purpose.

Debra talks about how she began writing online—originally intending to speak to midlife women, not realizing how many grieving hearts would find her words. She shares how God used her vulnerability to comfort others and how her faith became the steady thread she clung to as she learned to live again.

Connect HERE to connect with Debra.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

282 | When God Holds the Thread (Part One) with Debra Amick

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

When God Holds the Thread: Chase’s Story

In this first half of my conversation with Debra Amick, she shares the story of her son Chase—a talented artist, musician, and gentle soul whose life touched so many. Debra opens up about his early years, the emergence of mental-health struggles in his teens, and the intentional decision she and her husband made to stay closely connected to his heart.

She also recounts the powerful moment when Chase returned to his faith in Jesus and the heartbreaking night he went to Heaven. Through it all, Debra describes the unmistakable ways God met their family with comfort and presence, even in the darkest places.

If you’re walking through a story involving mental illness, trauma, or deep sorrow, I pray Debra’s honesty will remind you that you’re not alone—and that even when we feel like we’re hanging on by a thread, we find that it's God Himself who holds that thread.

Next week in Part 2, Debra will share what happened after Chase went to Heaven, including how she began writing publicly and how God led her toward purpose in the midst of her pain. She’ll also talk about four very practical anchors that helped her navigate her grief with faith and hope.

Click HERE to connect with Debra and see all the resources she has available on her website!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

281 | The Valley and the Shepherd with Meshea Ingram

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

“Even in the darkest valley, the Shepherd is still good—and He never lets go.”

In this week’s episode, I talk with Meshea Ingram, a mom who has walked through the deepest valley imaginable and found her Shepherd faithful every step of the way.

Meshea shares about her little boy, Briggs—a joyful child with an unforgettable laugh and a big personality that filled every room. In the summer of 2022, a tragic drowning incident changed everything. Meshea speaks honestly about the days she prayed for a miracle while Briggs was on life support, the disappointment that followed when God didn’t answer as she hoped, and the long process of learning to trust His goodness again.

Out of their pain, Meshea and her husband founded Love Can Build a Briggs, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about drowning prevention and provides swim-lesson scholarships for young children.

This episode is a beautiful reminder that even when our miracle looks different than we hoped and our hearts are breaking, the Shepherd is still leading us, His mercies are always new, and His faithfulness never fails.

Connect with Meshea:

Website: www.lovecanbuildabriggs.com
Instagram: @shewhoprays
Facebook: Love Can Build a Briggs

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

280 | We Are Held with Cheri Fletcher

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

“What if hope isn’t about holding on—but about being held?”

In today's episode, I had the privilege to sit down with Cheri Fletcher—a writer, speaker, and flash mob aficionado—who shares the story of her daughter Annie, a vibrant young woman whose life reflected creativity, compassion, and faith.

Cheri opens up about the sudden medical crisis that took Annie’s life at just 29, the ache of surrendering to God’s will, and the unshakable truth that we are never left to simply “hang in there”—we are held by the God who goes before us. Drawing from passages like Deuteronomy 31:8 and Isaiah 41:10, she reminds us that even when life shatters, God’s presence remains steady and sure.

We also talk about Cheri’s new project, the Grief Communication Cards, a set of thoughtful prompts designed to help grieving families and friends talk more openly about their loved ones. I'm planning to use these cards with my own family this holiday season as a way to remember and celebrate our daughter Hannah as well as others who have gone to Heaven in our family. Use the code WAITING10 for 10% off your set!

This episode is a tender reminder that when we don’t have the strength to hold on, God is the One holding us—steady, present, and faithful.

Resources Mentioned:

Cheri Fletcher’s Website: cherifletcher.com
Grief Communication Cards – use code WAITING10 for 10% off
While We’re Waiting Facebook Group – Support for Bereaved Parents

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

279 | An Immeasurable Love with Cindy Shufflebarger

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Cindy Shufflebarger, who shares the story of her daughter, Ashlynn Faith, and how God’s immeasurable love met her family in the midst of unimaginable loss. Diagnosed with Trisomy 18, Ashlynn lived for three precious days — days filled with both deep sorrow and sacred joy. Cindy reflects on those moments, the way her faith was reshaped through lament, and how journaling became a lifeline that led to her book Dancing in the Rain: Finding Joy in the Midst of the Storm.

We also talk about the Shufflebarger’s beautiful ministry, P23 Retreat, which provides grieving parents with a private, prayer-covered space to rest and heal. Through this ministry, couples and singles are able to pause, reflect, and experience the peace of Psalm 23 in their own grief journeys.

Here are some of the resources we mention in this episode:

P23 Retreat Website: p23retreat.org
— Learn more about how to request a retreat, donate a stay, or access the free downloadable resources available there.
Free Downloadable Checklist for Grieving Parents — A simple tool to help you communicate your needs and boundaries to family and friends during grief. (Find it under “Resources” on the P23 website.)
P23 Retreat on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
My Messy Grief Podcast — Listen on Spotify or watch video episodes on YouTube
Cindy’s Book: Dancing in the Rain: Finding Joy in the Midst of the Storm
— A look at how God brings joy and growth even through the hardest seasons.
My Messy Grief Journal — Available on Amazon; a creative, colorful guide filled with prompts and activities to help you process grief in practical, sensory ways.

Cindy’s story is a powerful reminder that God’s love truly has no limits — even in our deepest pain.

If this episode encouraged you, please share it!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

278 | Marking Time With Hope

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is a little bit different than what you usually hear on the While We're Waiting podcast. I've invited my husband Brad to join me to reflect on our daughter Hannah’s birthday. She would have turned 34 years old today—which means she’s now double the age she was when she went to Heaven at 17. That realization has hit us a little bit harder this year.

As we’ve been reflecting, we found ourselves thinking about all that’s changed in the world over the past 17 years—as well as the things we’ve lost, the things we’ve gained, and how time has both softened and deepened parts of our grief. We want to invite you into that conversation with us as we remember our girl and talk about what it’s like to keep walking forward while still holding her memory close.

If you’re facing a difficult day on the calendar, or maybe you’ve been thinking about all that’s changed since your child went to Heaven, we hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

277 | A Dad's Journey to Hope (Part Two) with Terry Sternad

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In the second half of my conversation with grieving dad Terry Sternad, we see what grief—and faith—can look like more than forty years after the death of a child. Terry’s six-year-old son, TJ, went to heaven in 1983, and while the ache of missing him has never gone away, Terry has discovered that joy and sorrow can coexist through a deep, abiding relationship with God.

In this episode, Terry reflects on how grief has shaped his walk with God and how it has grown into a ministry of comfort for others through GriefShare. He shares candidly about how people and churches often struggle to support the bereaved, why those who are grieving sometimes have to take the first step in reaching out, and how helping others has become one of the greatest sources of healing in his own life.

We talk about:

What’s changed—and what hasn’t—in how our culture handles grief
How the church can better come alongside those who are hurting
The lifelong evolution of a father’s grief and faith
How serving others brings purpose and peace
The powerful truth that “time doesn’t heal; time with God heals”
The freedom Terry found in finally releasing guilt and embracing his identity in Christ

Terry’s story is a portrait of what it looks like to keep growing, serving, and trusting God decades after loss. His honest reflections remind every grieving parent that while the pain remains, God’s presence endures—and He can transform even our deepest sorrow into hope that lasts.

Click HERE for more information about the GriefShare ministry, and to find a group in your area!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

276 | A Dad's Journey to Hope (Part One) with Terry Sternad

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

When a father loses a child, the world shifts forever. In this first half of my two-part conversation with grieving dad Terry Sternad, he takes us back more than forty years to the day his six-year-old son, TJ, went to heaven—and the remarkable way God was already preparing his heart for that moment.

Before TJ’s death in December of 1983, Terry didn’t believe in God. But through the faithful witness of a coworker and tender moments with his mother, seeds of faith were planted long before he knew how desperately he would need them. On the day that changed everything, Terry found himself praying for the first time—and discovering a God who met him right in the middle of his deepest pain.

In this episode, we talk about:

How God often begins preparing us for what’s ahead, even when we don’t see it
The shock of sudden loss and the early days of grief
The power of a simple, honest prayer: “God, help me”
Why Terry calls the day of TJ’s death both the worst and the best day of his life
How faith began to take root, even in the middle of unimaginable sorrow

Terry’s story is a tender reminder that even in our darkest moments, God’s presence is near—and that the seeds He plants in quiet, ordinary seasons can one day sustain us through the unthinkable.

Join us again next week for Part 2, where Terry shares how his grief and faith have continued to grow over the past forty years, how God has used his story to help others, and what hope looks like for a grieving dad who has learned to trust God with every chapter of his life.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

275 | He Will Hold You Fast (Part Two) with Julie South

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

“Surrender is not a moment; it’s a posture I’ve had to return to again and again.”

With these words, Julie South describes the ongoing journey she’s walked since her daughter Bellah’s homegoing. In this second part of our conversation, Julie shares honestly about living with PTSD, how trauma has impacted her family, and what surrender has looked like as she continues to walk with God through grief.

She also reflects on how her grief has evolved nearly six years later, why simple practices like worship rooted in Scripture and putting up the Christmas tree in October have become anchors of hope, and the significance of the phrase “the best is yet to come.”

Julie shares encouragement for moms who are just beginning their grief journey and talks about the new While We’re Waiting support group she and her husband, Scott, are preparing to begin in Florida.

This conversation is tender, honest, and full of reminders that even in the darkest seasons, God holds us fast.

Click HERE to learn more about the Sibling Lifeline retreats for adult bereaved siblings.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

274 | He Will Hold You Fast (Part One) with Julie South

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

“Even in the halls of the hospital, God showed me I was not alone.”

I'm excited today to introduce you to my friend Julie South. In this first half of our conversation, Julie shares the story of her daughter Bellah—a joyful, compassionate little girl whose life was marked by both laughter and serious medical challenges. Julie talks about how her daughter Makaylah’s health struggles prepared their family for medical adoption, how God led them to Bellah, and the joy Bellah brought to their home.

We also discuss what it looked like to navigate countless hospital stays, major surgeries, and ultimately a five-organ transplant—and how God’s presence was evident even in the darkest hospital hallways.

Next week, in Part 2 of our conversation, Julie will share about her experience with PTSD after Bellah’s homegoing and how she is now coming alongside other grieving parents to bring hope and encouragement. I know you will be blessed by what she has to share in both episodes!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

273 | Redeeming the Broken Pieces with Kim Allison

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Kim Allison returns to the While We're Waiting podcast to share more of her story—this time opening up about the loss of her husband, Herb, to suicide, and how God is redeeming the broken pieces of her life.

She reflects on her two babies in Heaven, Benjamin and Jeremiah, the vibrant life of her son Timothy, who went to Heaven in 2021, the deep valleys of grief she has walked through, and the tools that have helped her trade sorrow for peace. This tender, yet hope-filled conversation points us to God’s faithfulness, even in our darkest moments.

Click HERE and HERE to listen to my previous conversation with Kim Allison in November of 2022.

Click HERE to visit Timothy's website! You can see photos of his adventures and read posts from Kim's blog.

Kim's email address to request a copy of her book: allisontimes@yahoo.com

Email Jill at jill@whilewerewaiting.org by Monday, September 22, at 12:00 pm (CST) and share with her what was most meaningful to you about this episode to be entered in a drawing for one of Kim's books!

Click HERE to order a copy of Timothy Allison: A Life Well-Lived on Amazon ... or to read it FREE on Kindle.

Click HERE to order a copy of Desperate Trust: Clinging to God When your World Falls Apart which Kim wrote after the loss of her babies.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

272 | Tiny Cradle, Eternal Impact (Part Two) with Ashley Opliger

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

"The cradle is a temporary comfort—but the eternal comfort comes from the hope of the gospel.” ~Ashley Opliger

In this second half of my conversation with Ashley Opliger, she takes us back to the day of Bridget’s birth and describes the tender moments she and her family shared with their tiny daughter, who weighed just 13 ounces. Ashley shares how her mother’s handmade cradle gave Bridget dignity and allowed their family precious time to hold, cherish, and photograph her.

What began as one simple cradle has now grown into Bridget’s Cradles, a ministry that has donated more than 250,000 cradles and keepsakes to grieving families in over 1,600 hospitals across all 50 states. Ashley also talks about her book, Cradled in Hope, written as a conversation between two moms, and the scriptures that have grounded her heart through the losses of both her daughter and her dad.

Ashley's story is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of unimaginable pain, God is faithful to bring comfort, purpose, and the hope of Heaven with our children.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with Ashley.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

271 | Tiny Cradle, Eternal Impact (Part One) with Ashley Opliger

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

“Lament is slowing down to sit in the sadness and bring it to God.” ~Ashley Opliger

The importance of lament is just one of the topics I discussed with Ashley Opliger on the podcast this week. Ashley is a wife, mom, author, speaker, and the founder of Bridget’s Cradles, a nonprofit ministry she started in memory of her daughter, Bridget.

In this first half of our conversation, Ashley shares her daughter Bridget’s story—the gift of her pregnancy, the joy of preparing for her arrival, and her heartbreaking loss at 24 weeks gestation. We talk about the depth of grief experienced after pregnancy and infant loss, the sting of unhelpful comments, and how lament has been a lifeline in Ashley’s walk with God.

She offers gentle encouragement for moms who may be struggling to pray, wrestling with doubts, or questioning God’s goodness in the midst of their sorrow.

This episode tenderly reminds us that every baby’s life—no matter how brief—has eternal worth.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

270 | God Was There (Part Two) with Kelly Uribe

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of our conversation, Kelly opens her heart about the unique challenges of losing a child to suicide and the long road of learning to live with deep grief. She reflects on the endless “what if” questions, the weight of not knowing, and the disorientation that comes with walking through such profound loss.

Kelly also shares about the “waypoints” that marked her first year of grief—things like unknowing, providence, compassion, God’s presence, gratitude, and even disbelief. Each one became a reminder that even in the valley of sorrow, God was there. Nearly three years later, Kelly testifies to the hope of the resurrection, the nearness of heaven, and the peace she finds in knowing Ernesto is safely with Jesus.

This is a tender and faith-filled conversation about love, loss, and God’s sustaining presence. Kelly’s words will bring comfort to anyone who grieves and encouragement to all who are seeking hope beyond this broken world.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of our conversation.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

269 | God Was There (Part One) with Kelly Uribe

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Kelly Uribe joins me today to share the story of her son Ernesto—a vibrant, adventurous, and deeply loved young man. She describes his big personality, his penchant for "people gathering", and the artistic eye that set him apart. She also shares about the spring when everything began to change, leading their family into a long and arduous journey through the mental health care system, and ultimately to Ernesto's death by suicide in the fall of 2022.

With great transparency, Kelly recounts the countless appointments, medications, therapies, and programs they pursued in hopes of finding healing for Ernesto. She talks about the challenges of navigating insurance, the hidden isolation families often feel, and the exhaustion of trying to parent a teen in crisis while clinging to hope.

This episode gives us a window into the realities many families face but few discuss openly. It’s a story of deep love, heartbreaking struggle, and the assurance that God was there with them through each uncertain step.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

268 | Writhing, Wrestling, and Worshiping (Part Two) with Chad and Ronni Fellers

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In last week’s conversation with Chad and Ronni Fellers (listen HERE), we heard the story of their son Paxton—his adoption, his joy-filled spirit, and the day their lives changed forever. We also heard how grief has forced them to wrestle deeply with their faith and the goodness of God in the wake of profound loss.

In today’s episode, part two of our conversation, we focus on something many grieving hearts struggle to understand: lament. Chad and Ronni speak honestly about what it means to bring their pain, their questions, even their anger to God—not as a lack of faith, but as a vital expression of it. As Ronni puts it, “When you're wrestling with someone, you're face to face. And if I'm still wrestling with God, it means I haven't turned away.”

We talk about how lament has shaped their grief, their marriage, their parenting, and their perspective on worship. Ronni shares the story behind her blog, The God Kiss, and the healing she’s found in writing her wrestle.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that God welcomes our sorrow—and meets us there with His presence. We’ll pick up right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to watch the Fellers' video testimony produced by Fellowship Bible Church.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

267 | Writhing, Wrestling, and Worshiping (Part One) with Chad and Ronni Fellers

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

We’re beginning a two-part series today with Chad and Ronni Fellers, who invite us into their story and help us understand what it means to grieve with both faith and honesty.

In today’s episode, Chad and Ronni share about their son Paxton, a young man his dad describes as “all gas, no brakes”—his adoption story, his bold and fearless personality, and the morning that marked the beginning of a life-altering journey.

They talk about the six weeks spent in the hospital, the thousands of people who prayed, and the moment they realized God’s healing would look different than they had hoped. Through it all, they speak openly about writhing in pain, wrestling with God, and slowly learning how to worship in the midst of deep grief.

In this episode, we discuss:

Paxton’s adoption and early years
His vibrant, fearless personality
The morning everything changed
Their six-week stay in the ICU
The role of faith during trauma
Honest wrestling with God in grief
Why lament is a faithful response to suffering
The recalibration of life after child loss

This episode is not about resolution—it’s about invitation: to lament, to question, and to trust that even in the ache, we are not alone.

Click HERE to watch the Fellers' video testimony produced by Fellowship Bible Church.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

266 | A Lifeline for Bereaved Siblings ... with Bobby Bisterfeldt and Gabby Bisterfeldt

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

As bereaved parents, one of the most pressing questions we grapple with is this: How do I help my surviving children? We want to support them well, but sometimes we’re met with silence or withdrawal. It can feel like we’re walking blind through their grief. That’s why I’m so honored—and genuinely excited—to share this episode with you today.

In this important conversation, I’m joined by Bobby and Gabby, a father-in-law and daughter-in-law who have each experienced the loss of not just one, but two siblings. With honesty, faith, and compassion, they invite us into their stories—stories marked by sudden loss, complicated family dynamics, delayed grief, and eventually, renewed hope.

Together, Bobby and Gabby talk about:

Why surviving siblings may struggle to talk to their parents
How grief changes over time, especially as siblings mature
The impact of loss on their relationships with their parents
How their own faith has been both tested and strengthened
Practical ways parents can support their children through sibling loss

They also share about the ministry they co-lead: Sibling Lifeline, a retreat-based community that brings adult grieving siblings together for connection, healing, and hope. The work they’re doing is so needed—and I believe you’ll finish this episode feeling both better equipped and more hopeful as a parent.

Whether you’re longing to understand your child’s grief, or you’ve experienced sibling loss yourself, this conversation will speak to your heart.

Links from the Episode:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

265 | Hope Comes to Stay with Clarissa Moll

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

I'm so pleased today to be joined by Clarissa Moll—an award-winning writer, podcaster, and author of the bestselling book Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving After Loss. While Clarissa is not a grieving parent, I invited her to the show because of the practical insights she offers about parenting grieving children.

In this episode, she shares her personal journey as a widow and how she’s found hope and healing through faith, community, and creativity. Her wisdom, born from walking alongside her own children through loss, speaks directly to the challenges many of us face as we support our kids through heartbreak.

Clarissa shares the inspiration behind her newest book for children, Hope Comes to Stay, a gentle and beautifully written story that helps young readers understand and process grief. If you’re a parent navigating your own sorrow while trying to care for your child’s heart, this conversation will offer comfort, language, and hope.

In this episode, we discuss:

Clarissa’s journey after the sudden death of her husband
How Beyond the Darkness offers practical, compassionate help for grieving hearts
What it means to parent children who grieve
Tools and language to help kids process loss
The inspiration behind her new children’s book, Hope Comes to Stay
How faith and lament can live side by side
What flourishing after loss can look like for families

Whether you’re grieving yourself or walking alongside your children in their grief, Clarissa offers a tender reminder that healing is possible—and that you’re not alone on this journey.

Resources Mentioned:

Beyond the Darkness by Clarissa Moll
Hope Comes to Stay (Clarissa’s new children’s book)
Hurt Help Hope (Clariss'a book written with her teen daughter, Fiona)
Clarissa’s website

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

264 | Blessings for Barrett (Part Two) with Katy Bone

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of my conversation with Katy Bone, we explore how grief has not only reshaped her life, but also refined her faith and revealed a deeper sense of purpose. Nearly six years after her son Barrett went to heaven, Katy reflects on the ways his short life continues to make an impact.

Katy shares how her grief has evolved over time—from the early days of guilt and resistance to joy, to a place of acceptance where sorrow and hope coexist. She speaks candidly about her struggle with faith in the wake of loss, her anger toward God, and how He patiently met her in every question, every tear, and every step toward healing.

We also talk about Blessings for Barrett, the nonprofit Katy and her husband founded to honor Barrett’s legacy by supporting grieving siblings. Through thoughtfully curated care boxes and a newly released children’s book, their ministry is reaching surviving siblings across the country with the important message: You are not alone.

This episode is a powerful testament to how God brings beauty from ashes—and how even in our deepest pain, He can redeem and restore.

Topics Covered:

How grief changes over time
Giving yourself grace in the healing process
Faith, doubt, and honesty with God after loss
Supporting grieving siblings through their nonprofit ministry Blessings for Barrett
Katy’s new children’s book, Buzzy the Bee
Worship music as a companion in grief

Connect with Katy:
🌐 Blessings for Barrett
📘 Buzzy the Bee and Buzzy the Bee Coloring Book

Be sure to check out Part One of Katy’s story if you haven’t already (linked HERE), and share this conversation with someone who needs to be reminded that God is near in the midst of grief.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

263 | Blessings for Barrett (Part One) with Katy Bone

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I’m joined by my new friend Katy Bone, a wife and mother whose story is marked by both profound loss and enduring hope. In this first part of our conversation, Katy shares the early chapters of her motherhood journey—beginning with the heartbreaking miscarriage of her first son, whom she affectionately nicknamed “Little Bit.” She speaks about the grief that followed, the anxiety of pregnancy after loss, and the joy of welcoming her daughter Poppy.

Katy then invites us into the story of her son Barrett. From a concerning 20-week ultrasound to a complicated delivery and three challenging weeks in the NICU, Katy and her husband walked through a season of emotional whiplash—clinging to hope, praying for healing, and ultimately facing Barrett's homegoing.

Through it all, Katy’s faith shines. She shares how the love of family, the compassion of medical staff, and the promises of Scripture sustained her through the hardest days of her life. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength of a mother’s love and the unwavering presence of God in the midst of suffering.

Topics Covered:

Miscarriage and pregnancy after loss
Choosing Barrett's name
Complications during pregnancy and delivery
Life in the NICU and the emotional toll of uncertainty
Barrett’s diagnosis and their final days together
Making precious memories in the midst of grief
The nearness of God in deep sorrow

Scriptures Mentioned:

John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”
Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Connect with Katy:
🌐 Blessings for Barrett

In next week's episode, we’ll continue our conversation as Katy reflects on how grief has shaped her over the past six years—how it’s changed her identity, her faith, and even her career path. She also shares the beautiful ways Barrett’s legacy lives on through their nonprofit ministry, Blessings for Barrett, which brings hope and comfort to grieving siblings across the country. Be sure to subscribe or follow so you don't miss an episode of the While We're Waiting podcast!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

262 | The Empty Chair Endeavor (Part Two) with Greg and Cathy Buffkin

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to the second half of my conversation with Greg and Cathy Buffkin.

In today's episode, the Buffkins speak directly to the grieving parent—especially the one who has lost a child to suicide and is wondering how to take the next breath, let alone the next step. With transparency and tenderness, they offer hard-won wisdom from their own journey, sharing what sustained them through the darkest days and how God’s presence, along with the support of others, helped carry them forward.

They share honestly about the emotional weight of guilt, the unique struggles of grieving as a couple, and the often-overlooked pain of surviving siblings. They also introduce us to their beautiful ministry, The Empty Chair Endeavor, and the purpose it’s brought in the wake of devastating loss.

This episode is filled with insight, encouragement, and a message of enduring hope for anyone navigating the deep waters of grief.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with the Buffkins.

Click HERE to listen to the Empty Chair Endeavor podcast with Greg Buffkin.

Click HERE to visit the Empty Chair Endeavor website, and HERE to follow their Facebook page.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

261 | The Empty Chair Endeavor (Part One) with Greg and Cathy Buffkin

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Greg and Cathy Buffkin join me on the podcast today to share the story of their son Ryan—a funny and tenderhearted young man who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. As we get to know Ryan through their memories, we also learn about the hidden struggles he carried and the heartbreaking loss they experienced when he died by suicide in the fall of 2015.

With honesty and grace, Greg and Cathy open up about the complicated grief that comes with suicide loss, including the misconceptions that often surround it. They speak directly to the false belief that suicide is the unforgivable sin, offering reassurance that Ryan knew the Lord and is with Him now. Our conversation is both tender and powerful, offering hope, truth, and the comforting reminder that God’s love never lets go—even in our deepest sorrow.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

Stories of Ryan’s life and personality
The events leading up to his death
The discovery of deeply painful truths after his passing
How Greg and Kathy have processed their grief over the past ten years
The impact of sibling loss on their surviving daughter
Gentle, faith-filled advice for parents grieving a suicide
A reminder that God’s love reaches even into our darkest places

This episode is tender, honest, and full of hope. If you’ve lost a child—or know someone who has—Greg and Cathy’s story will remind you that you are not alone and that God is present, even in the pain.

Resources & Links:

While We’re Waiting – Support for bereaved parents
Scripture References:
- Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
- Romans 8:38-39 – “Nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…”

Connect with Us:

Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode
Leave a review to help others find hope
Visit whilewerewaiting.org to learn more about our ministry for bereaved parents
Come back next week to hear the rest of the Buffkins' story

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

260 | Desperate Prayers (Part Two) with Rachel Wojo

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Rachel Wojo is my guest once again, and today we shift from her story of parenting her daughter Taylor through a terminal illness to the deeper spiritual lessons that followed her death—lessons about grief, surrender, and the hard, holy work of prayer when God’s answer is “no.”

Rachel shares the story behind her latest book, Desperate Prayers, and talks honestly about wrestling with God, receiving painful judgment from others, and redefining what healing really means. We also explore how prayer connects us to God in the midst of spiritual warfare and how—even when words fail—God hears the cries of our hearts.

Rachel’s story offers not only honest insight but deep encouragement for those walking through grief. Whether you’re wrestling with God, struggling to pray, or simply trying to make it through the day, I believe her words will meet you where you are.

Listen to the first half of our conversation HERE.

Connect with Rachel:
🌐 DesperatePrayers.com
🎙️ Untangling Prayer with Rachel Wojo Podcast
📘 Book: Desperate Prayers

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

259 | Desperate Prayers (Part One) with Rachel Wojo

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this first half of our two-part conversation, author and speaker Rachel Wojo shares her journey with her daughter Taylor, who was diagnosed with a rare degenerative condition. Rachel opens up about the challenges and the joys of parenting a special needs child, walking through divorce and disappointment, and holding onto her faith as Taylor's health declined, ultimately leading to her homegoing at the age of 22 in 2019.

Rachel is the author of Desperate Prayers and a multitude of other helpful books and resources related to Bible study and prayer. She also hosts an excellent weekly podcast called Untangling Prayer with Rachel Wojo.

In this episode:

Parenting a child with a terminal illness
The joys and challenges of special needs caregiving
God’s grace in the midst of grief and loss
The miracle of Taylor’s adoption before her homegoing

Connect with Rachel:

Click HERE to visit her website where you can find ALL her resources!

Click HERE to connect with her podcast!

Click HERE to find all of her resources on Amazon!

Next week:

In next week’s episode, we’ll continue our conversation as Rachel shares how her experiences led to her latest book, Desperate Prayers. We’ll talk about what it means to pray when words are hard to find, how to define healing from an eternal perspective, and how to move beyond survival mode after child loss.

You won’t want to miss the wisdom and hope Rachel brings in Part Two. We hope you'll join us then!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

258 | Questions About Heaven (Part Two) with Austin DeArmond

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of our two-part conversation, Austin DeArmond returns to the mic to continue exploring some of the most common myths and misunderstandings people have about heaven—especially those that surface in grief and longing after child loss. Austin brings deep scriptural knowledge and a tender heart shaped by personal experience as a bereaved dad himself.

Together, we dive into thought-provoking questions like:

Do our loved ones in heaven know what’s happening on earth?
Will our children still be children when we see them again?
Is heaven really "up in the clouds"?
Will everyone receive the same rewards in eternity?
What is the “new earth,” and how does it differ from heaven as we typically imagine it?
Will we grow, learn, and discover new things in heaven?

Austin also offers biblical encouragement for bereaved parents, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ and the beautiful truth that the best is yet to come.

Be Encouraged: Heaven is not just consolation—it’s compensation. As Austin shares, our sorrows will not only be ended but fully mended in God’s presence. If you’ve ever longed to understand more about where your child is now and what lies ahead for you, this conversation is for you.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my "Questions About Heaven" conversation with Austin!

Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin and Valerie DeArmond in which they share the full story of their son Gabriel.

Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin regarding myths and cliches about grief.

Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.

Click HERE to get a copy of Heaven by Randy Alcorn. Also available on Amazon.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

257 | Questions About Heaven (Part One) with Austin DeArmond

Wed, 28 May 2025 03:00:00 -0500

My friend, Austin DeArmond, returns to the podcast today to explore some of the most common myths and misconceptions people have about Heaven. As a bereaved Dad, Bible translation consultant, and faithful follower of Christ, Austin brings both personal insight and biblical depth to this important discussion.

We talk about questions many of us have wrestled with: Will Heaven be boring? Do we become angels? Will we recognize our loved ones? Is there time in Heaven? What happens to us when we die? With wisdom and grace, Austin walks us through what scripture really says—and doesn't say—about our eternal home, helping us ground our hope in truth rather than cultural myths.

Whether you’re a bereaved parent or simply someone simply curious about what comes after this life, I believe our conversation will bring comfort and encouragement.

Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin and Valerie DeArmond in which they share the full story of their son Gabriel.

Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin regarding myths and cliches about grief.

Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.

Click HERE to get a copy of Heaven by Randy Alcorn. Also available on Amazon.

Don't Miss Next Week:
Be sure to join us again next week as we continue this discussion with Austin. In Part Two, we’ll tackle more cultural myths about heaven and dig deeper into what the Bible reveals about our future hope.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

256 | Lamenting in the Waiting ... with Josh and Nicole Kingsbury

Wed, 21 May 2025 03:00:00 -0500

As we continue our conversation from the previous episode, Josh and Nicole Kingsbury open up about how they’ve walked through grief as a couple after the loss of their daughter, Amber, to suicide in 2021. They share the early commitment they made to protect their marriage amidst the pain and the ways they’ve learned to communicate through their differing grief styles.

We also discuss the "before and after" of child loss, hear some of their favorite scriptures, talk about the importance of lament in the grief journey, and hear how doing ministry together has been a big part of their healing process. I believe you'll be blessed by listening in!

Missed the first half of our conversation? Listen HERE.

To learn more about Operation Christmas Child or to get involved, click HERE.

To visit The Corner Room website (scripture set to music), click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

255 | Wrestling in the Waiting ... with Josh and Nicole Kingsbury

Wed, 14 May 2025 03:00:00 -0500

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Josh and Nicole Kingsbury as they shared the beautiful and heartbreaking story of their daughter Amber. A vibrant, creative, and compassionate young girl who loved Jesus, Amber touched the lives of everyone around her. Josh and Nicole reflect on her love for art, her deep bond with her brother, and her passion for helping others.

They also discuss the subtle changes they noticed as Amber entered her teenage years — changes that were very typical for an adolescent girl. In a moment that would forever alter their lives, Amber made a choice that left her parents grappling with shock, grief, and countless unanswered questions.

Josh and Nicole reflect on the unexpectedness of Amber’s death, the unanswerable questions they've had to lay at the feet of Jesus, and how they are learning to wrestle in the waiting.

Be sure to come back for part two next week, where Josh and Nicole delve deeper into their grief journey, how they are navigating life after loss, and the ways they are finding hope amidst the heartache.

Click HERE to learn more about our FREE While We're Waiting Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide, currently available in Arkansas, Maryland, Illinois, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

254 | Sacred Circles with Michael and Peggy Mages

Wed, 07 May 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Episode #254, which is a continuation of my conversation with Michael and Peggy Mages. In our last episode, we were introduced to their son Mason—a bold, kindhearted, and faith-filled young man—and the tragic day they lost him in a drowning incident.

In this second half, Michael and Peggy open up about life in the aftermath of loss. They share advice for newly bereaved parents, reflect on how grief has changed their marriage, their parenting, and their walk with the Lord, and offer insight into what it means to persevere in faith when the pain doesn’t go away. From grief brain and “Mason Days” to sacred circles and heavenly hope, their words are honest, practical, and rooted in Scripture.

Whether you are fresh on the road of grief or walking beside someone who is, this episode is full of grace and truth for the journey. We’ll pick up right where we left off last week.

Missed the first half of our conversation? Click HERE to listen!

To register for our FREE While We're Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents scheduled for October 3-5, 2025, in Hesston Kansas, led by Michael and Peggy Mages, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

253 | An Eternal Hope with Michael and Peggy Mages

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Today, I’m honored to welcome Michael and Peggy Mages to the podcast to share the story of their son, Mason—a deeply thoughtful young man often referred to as an "old soul", who loved everything John Deere and Star Wars, was always prepared with a pair of pliers, and displayed confidence in exactly who God created him to be.

In this first half of our conversation, you’ll hear about Mason’s unique personality, the impact he had on those around him, and the day that changed everything—the drowning incident that placed Mason into the arms of Jesus.

Michael and Peggy share their story with honesty and faith, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ, even in our deepest sorrow.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

252 | See the Good (Part Two) with Brad and Karen Nadolson

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In Part Two of this powerful conversation, Brad and Karen Nadolson continue sharing the story of their daughter Bethany—this time focusing on how life has unfolded in the wake of her homegoing.

With honesty and grace, they talk about walking through the earliest days of grief, how their relationship with God has deepened, and the ways they've learned to honor Bethany’s life while continuing to live with purpose and hope. They speak about how grief affects marriage, how they’ve navigated holidays, and what it means to truly see the good even when your heart is broken.

This episode offers tender encouragement for any parent learning how to carry their child’s memory forward while holding tightly to the promises of God.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with the Nadolsons.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

251 | See the Good (Part One) with Brad and Karen Nadolson

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this first part of a two-part conversation, Brad and Karen Nadolson share the story of their daughter Bethany—a vibrant, faith-filled young woman whose life was defined by compassion, courage, and an unwavering desire to serve others.

Listeners will get to know Bethany through her parents’ eyes—from her love of travel and missions, to her selfless work with children in Haiti, to her brave fight with cancer. Through every chapter of her life, Bethany chose to see the good, a motto that shaped how she lived and how she faced unimaginable challenges.

Brad and Karen reflect on the early days of her diagnosis, the van project that became a treasured father-daughter experience, and the faith that sustained their family through deep grief. This episode offers a powerful testimony for any bereaved parent walking the road of loss with hope in Christ.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

250 | Butterflies and Grace (Part Two) with Brian and Danna Mayhall

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Episode #250, which is a continuation of my conversation with Brian and Danna Mayhall. Their daughter Amelia went to Heaven in July of 2013 after sustaining a devastating brain injury due to a woman’s deliberate decision to drive the wrong way down the freeway. In last week’s episode, we came to know Amelia’s beautiful and compassionate spirit and the painful circumstances surrounding her death.

Today, we continue that conversation by stepping into some of the most tender parts of the Mayhall's grief journey—walking through forgiveness, learning how grief evolves over time, and discovering how hope can rise even in the darkest places. You’ll hear how they’ve kept Amelia’s memory alive in meaningful ways, how their faith has been refined through suffering, and how God continues to use their story to comfort and support other grieving parents.

This episode is for every parent who has known deep sorrow—and who is holding on to the hope of eternity. Let’s listen in.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

249 | Butterflies and Grace (Part One) with Brian and Danna Mayhall

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0500

I was honored to sit down with Brian and Danna Mayhall recently, who joined me to share the story of their daughter, Amelia—a young woman whose life was characterized by kindness and compassion.

Amelia sustained a devastating injury after a woman made a deliberate choice to drive the wrong way down the freeway and crashed into her car. In today’s episode, you’ll hear about the months Amelia lived beyond the crash, the tender loving care given by her parents, and her ultimate homegoing in July of 2013.

You’ll also hear how the Mayhalls have walked through the legal system after the driver was charged with felony homicide, including the victim’s impact statement Danna gave to the judge. This is a conversation about loss—but more than that, it’s a conversation about love, grace, and the presence of God in our deepest valleys.

This is part one of a two-part series that speaks directly to the hearts of grieving parents. We pray this conversation reminds you that you're not alone, and that God is near to the brokenhearted.

Topics Covered:

Amelia’s life and legacy of kindness
The tragic crash that took her life
Caring for an adult child with traumatic brain injury
God’s presence in grief and suffering
The unique grief of losing a married adult child
Faith, family, and the power of community support
Finding meaning in moments of heartbreak

Stay Connected:
If this episode was meaningful to you, we’d love to hear from you. Subscribe, leave a review, or share this episode with someone who may need it today.

Resources:

Click HERE for more information about the Our Hearts Are Home conference. I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

248 | Jeffrey Is With Jesus (Part Two) ... with Jeannie Williams

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Last week I introduced you to my friend Jeannie Williams, and we heard the story of her precocious and compassionate 11-year-old son Jeffrey, who died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a hotel room in 2013, an incident that left her with permanent after-effects as well.

In today's episode, Jeannie shares how grief has impacted her relationships with others, the challenges of finding a new identity after child loss, and the advice she would offer to newly bereaved parents. We also discuss the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning—what she has learned from her own experience and the precautions she now takes to protect herself and others. I believe Jeannie’s words will encourage you, wherever you are on your journey.

To listen to the first half of my conversation with Jeannie, click HERE.

For more information about the Our Hearts Are Home conference for bereaved parents, click HERE! I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

247 | Jeffrey is With Jesus (Part One) ... with Jeannie Williams

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Today, I have the privilege of introducing you to Jeannie Williams, a mother, wife, and "retired" homeschool teacher, whose life took an unimaginable turn in June of 2013.

Jeannie will share the story of her son, Jeffrey—his kind heart, his love for reading and Lego (with no “S”), and the joy he brought to those around him. She’ll also open up about the tragedy that took place in a hotel room one summer night and the journey of grief, faith, and healing she has walked ever since. I believe you will be comforted and inspired by our conversation.

Click HERE to register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference. I would love to see you there!!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 200 | Finale

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Thank you for joining me for the final bonus episode in this series in which I’ve been sharing our family’s experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah’s life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009. I’ll be completing the series today with a wrap-up about the ministry which developed out of Hannah’s homegoing. As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way. I’m so grateful you’ve joined me over this past year … Your listens and your kind comments have been a blessing to my heart.

Click HERE for more information about the While We're Waiting ministry or to register for one of our free retreats. We'd love to have the opportunity to serve you at an event!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 199 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 8 )

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

A friend of ours got us connected with an architect who donated his time and drew up a plan for our dream retreat center. The facility would incorporate the existing house, adding a large dining room, a commercial kitchen, and ten private guest rooms, each with its own bathroom. No more bunk beds with creaky plastic mattresses or shared bathrooms! This gentleman created a beautiful concept drawing and presented it to us one snowy Sunday afternoon. Then he told us the estimated cost ... One MILLION dollars! We had $3,000 in our While We're Waiting bank account.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I’ve been sharing our family’s experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah’s life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009. This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah’s homegoing. If you’ll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I’d like to share how God used Hannah’s storm to birth the While We’re Waiting ministry to bereaved parents. As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 198 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 7)

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

For three years, we had wonderful bereaved-parent retreats at Family Farm. As awareness began to grow about the ministry via word-of-mouth, internet searches, and our Facebook presence, our waiting lists also began to grow. Even with adding more retreat dates at other locations, we could no longer keep up with the demand for these events.

And as wonderful as Family Farm is, it was not an ideal location for the types of retreats we were hosting. After all, it was a children's camp ... complete with bunk rooms filled with bunk beds. Definitely not ideal for a grieving parent retreat. Family Farm is also a very busy place, and was only available to us twice a year.

So we began to consider some other options. The ultimate solution would be to have our own retreat facility ... a place where we could host as many events as we needed to, where our attendees could enjoy the privacy of their own rooms and feel comfortable and at home from the moment they walked in the door.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

246 | Nail-Scarred Hands ... with Nanette Klinect

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Last week, we heard the story of Nanette's beautiful daughter Katie’s life and the day everything changed for their family. Today, we continue our conversation, diving into what life has been like in the years since that time. Nanette shares the scriptures that became her anchor, the importance of sound theology, the challenges of navigating sibling grief, and how she's learned to trust the nail-scarred hands. If you’re wondering how to find hope after devastating loss, this episode is for you.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with Nanette.

Click HERE to register or to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home conference coming up in Lynchburg, Virginia, in April! Brad and I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 197 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 6)

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

That first bereaved-parent retreat in April of 2011 turned out to be above and beyond all we could have ever asked or imagined. We knew from our experience at the Respite Retreat what God could do when a group of like-minded bereaved parents got together ... but this first While We're Waiting Weekend was such a sweet confirmation of what we believed God was calling us to do.

Buoyed by the success of this first event, we quickly scheduled our next retreat for November of 2011. And you know what? That retreat almost didn't "make."

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 196 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 5)

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Over the next few months, we met frequently to discuss plans and pray about our upcoming retreat for bereaved parents. Several times we drove out to Family Farm and included Stan and Donna May in our planning meetings.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 195 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 4)

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Brad and I returned home from the Respite Retreat still basking in the glow of the new relationships we'd formed, the things we'd learned from spending time with other bereaved parents, and a renewed hope that it was still possible to have joy in life in spite of our great loss.

We had a strong sense that God was calling us into a similar type ministry for those who had lost children, but we had no idea how to move forward with it. We talked about it a lot, and we sought God's direction, but we just didn't have any kind of catalyst to push us forward.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 194 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 3)

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Even though I didn't really want to go, and this thing was way outside my comfort zone, Brad and I signed up for the Respite Retreat scheduled for Labor Day Weekend in September of 2010. We couldn't have known at the time what a profound impact it would have on our lives.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 193 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 2)

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

During the final days of Hannah's life, many people dropped by the hospice center and left books, gifts, food, and other items for our family. These kindnesses were so greatly appreciated.

Most of these gifts were accompanied by a card indicating who had given them. But one gift, a book called "Holding On To Hope" by Nancy Guthrie, was accompanied by a card signed only with the initials "plc". The anonymous person who brought that gift could not have foreseen what an impact it would have in our lives.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 192 | The Origin of While We're Waiting (Part 1)

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

245 | Fractured and Fragmented ... with Nanette Klinect

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Today’s episode features a conversation with my friend Nanette Klinect. We discuss the beautiful and miraculous story of her daughter Katie’s adoption, the tragic accident that changed everything, and the hard and holy privilege she had to walk her home to Heaven. With honesty, faith, and even a touch of humor, Nanette reflects on grief, healing, and the ways she continues to see God's hand at work in her story. Lean in and be encouraged.

Click HERE to register or to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home conference coming up in Lynchburg, Virginia, in April! Brad and I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 191 | The Dead in Christ Shall Rise

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

There never really was any question where Hannah's body would be buried. There's a beautiful cemetery in Briggsville, Arkansas, where the Sullivan family farm is located. Hannah spent many happy days at the farm ... hunting, riding 4-wheelers, and just hanging out with her cousins. Occasionally, we would stop at that cemetery and visit the graves of her great grandparents and other relatives. She always loved to walk around and read all the different headstones. It's a beautiful country cemetery, on a hillside with lots of trees and a gorgeous view. We knew that was the right place.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 190 | Celebrating a Life

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Hannah's life was celebrated at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs on this date sixteen years ago. We had two goals for the service -- to honor Hannah's life and to point people to Jesus.

I remember stepping into the church building feeling so very raw and exposed. Even though Hannah's death was not a surprise, it was a shock, and I was very much still reeling from effects of that shock. Walking down that long aisle to be seated in the front row was an incredibly surreal experience.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 189 | Snow Showers and Sweet Hugs

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

As I've been looking back through all the emails passing back and forth between the newspaper, our friends and family, the church staff, etc., that went on in those days immediately following Hannah's homegoing, I'm struck by how "together" I appeared to be. My communication skills were intact and I was generally coherent, but I remember none of it.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 188 | From Anger to Peace

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Most families don't have the opportunity to prepare for their child's death the way we did. We had known for a year that Hannah's cancer could be fatal, and even though we prayed earnestly for earthly healing, we knew from the beginning that God may choose to heal her in Heaven. And, of course, we eventually reached the point where we knew her death was a certainty unless He dramatically intervened.

So in the final days of her life, we frequently discussed what her actual passing might be like. We'd been assured that it would be peaceful ending when the tumors on her brainstorm caused her to simply cease breathing, and that's how we imagined it. It would be a beautiful moment as we sang hymns around her bed, maybe even getting a glimpse of a smile on her face as she got her first peek into Heaven. As you know from yesterday's episode, this was not the case.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

244 | Tuesdays Are Never the Same ... with Erik and Susan Totera

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Erik and Susan Totera about their daughter Reilly, an amazing young woman with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, who went to Heaven a little over two years ago. Today, they share how they are navigating the waves of grief, how their perspectives have shifted, and how they continue to find strength from the Lord in the face of sorrow. They remind us that while grief is heavy, it does not have to be carried alone. Lean in and be encouraged.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with the Toteras!

Click HERE to visit RaggaWedding, the wedding decor business Reilly started which is still going strong!

Click HERE to register or to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home conference coming up in Lynchburg, Virginia, in April! Brad and I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 187 | Safely Home

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0600

I woke with a start sixteen years ago today. I had slept for several hours without interruption, which had not happened in a long time. It scared me, and I immediately jumped up to check on Hannah. She had slept all night, and was still sleeping. She looked different somehow; better, in fact. She was sleeping in a more naturally relaxed position and her color seemed to be improved. Brad came into the room about that time (he and Bethany were staying in a room right next door) and he also thought she seemed better ...

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 186 | Breathing Peacefully

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

The entire time we were at the hospice center had a distinct air of unreality. The fact that we had reached the point where we were re-living the anniversaries of the events which had brought us to this place just added to that sense of illusion. Surely this wasn't happening to our family. Surely this was all some kind of crazy dream. Surely Hannah was going to be fine.

But no ... there we were, in a hospice center with our 17-year-old daughter whose grasp on this life was becoming more tenuous.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 185 | Making Preparations

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

It's a very surreal thing to write an obituary for your own child. It's even more surreal when your child is sitting beside you as you write it.

After Hannah's doctor confirmed that there was nothing else medically that could be done for her and that unless God intervened in a miraculous way she would be going to Heaven soon, I decided to begin making preparations for her funeral. If you know me you know I'm a planner by nature, so this was not unusual although the situation certainly was. I was afraid that once Hannah left for Heaven I would be too distraught to think clearly enough to plan something so important.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 184 | We Choose #3

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

It’s one of the most ancient of all questions, “Why does a good God allow people to suffer in this world? I discuss three options in my email from sixteen years ago today.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 183 | Surprise Phone Calls

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

On this day sixteen years ago, Hannah received two surprise phone calls, both from well-known musicians who had played a significant role in her life. Each of them spoke words of encouragement and and gave us special memories with Hannah that we will always treasure.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 182 | Special Visitors

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Many people came to visit us when we were in the hospice center, but only a few actually got to see Hannah during that time. She was never one to like a lot of attention even before she got sick, and I knew she would not be comfortable with visitors, especially in her condition. We wanted to protect her dignity as much as possible; therefore, only the people we knew she would really want to see were allowed in. Three of her best friends from elementary school were included in that group.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 181 | Spudnuts by the Dozen

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

You may recall that on Hannah's last day at Children's Hospital before we moved to hospice, some dear friends brought us a box of Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Hannah ate a couple bites of one, but let us know with her limited communication skills that it wasn't as good as a spudnut. Now, if you're wondering what in the world a "spudnut" is, let me fill you in. In El Dorado, Arkansas, there is a little hole in the wall called the Spudnut Shoppe, where they make the most delicious doughnuts in the world. I am told that they are made with potato flour ... thus the name. That little comment resulted in seven dozen spudnuts have been delivered to the hospice center over the next few days!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

243 | Second Chances: A Story of Love and Loss ... with Erik and Susan Totera

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Today, I have the privilege of speaking with Erik and Susan Totera, who I met when they attended one of our While We're Waiting Weekends in eastern Tennessee. They join me to share the story of their own personal testimony of second chances, as well as the story of their daughter Reilly ... a remarkable young woman who was blessed with creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit ... and we discuss how their faith is carrying them through her sudden and unexpected death. Their journey is a testament to God's presence in times of deep sorrow and His promise of eternal life, and I believe you'll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home spring conference in Lynchburg, Virginia. Brad and I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 180 | "Either Way, Hannah Wins"

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0600

I'm not gonna lie ... When we got to the hospice center and found out there was no wifi, I may have freaked out just a little. The emails and messages we received daily from so many wonderful people had become such a part of our lifeline it was hard to imagine being cut off from them. And writing my daily emails was actually playing a role in keeping me sane. Leaving Hannah's side to go to Starbucks for wifi access was just not going to work.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 179 | Our Hardest Move

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Brad and I moved a lot during the early years of our marriage ... College, graduate school, first job, second job, etc. Even after the girls were born, we continued to move frequently. Moving is always stressful, yet there's usually excitement involved too ... a new house, new neighborhood, new friends. We were used to moving and all that came along with it. But today we faced an entirely different kind of move ... Moving Hannah from Arkansas Children's Hospital to a hospice center across town.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 178 | Doughnuts and Decisions

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

This day began with Hannah nibbling a Krispy Kreme doughnut and ended with us making decisions about how we wanted to spend our final days with her.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 177 | A Devastating Day

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

**WARNING** - This post is fairly graphic and could be upsetting to some. If you are sensitive to discussions of blood, you may wish to skip it.

On this date sixteen years ago today, we found ourselves racing to Arkansas Children's Hospital emergency room in the wee hours of the morning. Hannah's low platelet levels were the culprit, and after a brief stay in the emergency room, we were admitted. Surprisingly, her doctors decided to go ahead with the MRI, even with all of this going on. The results were reviewed with us that afternoon and they were devastating, but not unexpected. We would soon be faced with decisions we never thought we'd have to make on behalf of our teenage daughter. But for that night, we just settled into the familiarity of the hospital and tried to get some rest.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 176 | Red Roses on Repeat

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

It was Valentine's Day. Exactly one year had passed since Hannah had shown the first symptoms of the brain tumor which was now slowly taking her life. It had been a roller-coaster year full of MRIs, needle sticks, radiation treatments, chemotherapy, hair loss, platelet infusions, and hospital stays. We had watched our daughter go from a vibrant, healthy 16-year-old with high academic aspirations to a weak, nearly-blind 17-year-old with the mind of an old woman with Alzheimer's. But in spite of the physical and mental changes cancer had wrought, it had not stolen her sweet spirit.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 175 | A Valentine Princess

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

It was Friday, and time for the junior high Valentine dance, and even though Bethany had been out of school since Tuesday, she had made plans to attend. Since Brad was available to be home with Hannah, I was able to spend the day with her. We already had her dress, and I enjoyed taking her to get her hair and make-up done that afternoon at my regular salon. She had plans to ride to the dance with a group of friends, so I figured once we got her all beautiful, she would head out for the evening and I would see her when she got home.

That afternoon, we received a phone call from one of her teachers letting us know that Bethany had been voted as the Valentine Dance princess by her fellow students. It would be a surprise for Bethany that evening, so she didn't want us to tell her ... She just wanted me to know about it so I could come to the dance and see her crowned if I wanted to. Of course I wanted to! We let her leave for the dance with her friends without giving away the surprise, then I drove to the gym so I could be there for the coronation.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

242 | Jesus Wept ... with Shawn and Sandy Smith

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Shawn and Sandy Smith about their son Andrew—a joy-filled boy with a love for music—who went to heaven in 2009 after a courageous battle with DIPG.

Today, we look at what life has been like over the sixteen years since Andrew went home to Jesus. In this episode, Shawn and Sandy open up about how they’ve learned to carry their loss, what has brought them comfort, and how their faith has deepened in ways they never expected.

We’ll talk about the struggles and the hope, the moments that still take them by surprise, and the ways God has shown His love and faithfulness through the years. I believe today’s episode will be an encouragement to you.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 174 | A Painful Decision

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

During our clinic appointment sixteen years ago today, we had the opportunity to chat with Hannah's oncologist while she received her requisite platelet infusion. She was scheduled for an MRI on Monday, which would tell us a lot about what the future might hold. Her doctor was very honest with us, explaining that he believed the results would indicate progression of the cancer. He went on to say that if that was indeed the case, there was very little, if anything, that could be done for her medically from this point on.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 173 | A Bruising of a Blessing

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

After hearing the news that we may just have six to eight weeks left with Hannah, Brad and I sat down together and made some decisions. One was that he would take a leave of absence from his job as her high school principal. Part of this was just practicality ... as Hannah was able to do less and less for herself, he would be needed to help with her care. She was basically the same height and weight as me and while we had been managing pretty well so far, I knew I wasn't going to be able to lift her anymore when she could no longer "help" me.

But really, he took the leave of absence in order to spend as much time with Hannah as he could. And for that same reason, we also made the decision to pull Bethany out of school. She wasn't learning a thing anyway ... She couldn't focus on school with all that was happening at home. If she missed six or eight weeks of school and had to repeat a grade, so be it. We wanted her to have every possible moment she could with her big sister.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 172 | A Gift of Kindness

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

When we arrived at Children's Hospital sixteen years ago today, the waiting room was packed and every bed in the infusion room was full. It was obvious we had a long wait in front of us. Hannah was completely exhausted just from the ride to Little Rock that morning, and could barely sit up in her wheelchair. The brightness of the waiting room assaulting her dilated pupils made things even more uncomfortable for her. I didn't know how we were possibly going to make it through the morning.

One of the nurses noticed Hannah's struggle, and called us back before it was our turn. She led us to a conference room which contained one of those pull-out sleep chairs that you find in hospital rooms, and fixed it so Hannah could lay on it while we were waiting for an available bed so she could get her platelets. She turned on a lamp and then flipped off the light switch as she closed the door behind her, giving Hannah the gift of sweet rest in privacy.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 171 | In the Middle of the Storm

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

From my email 16 years ago ...

Every day, we hear from at least one person (usually several people) about how much Hannah's story has touched, or even changed, their life. It is such an incredible blessing to us to hear that, and I want to take a minute to explain why. The night before Hannah's brain surgery last February, she shared a story with us that she had never told us before. Many of you have heard this story; most of you probably have not, so with her permission I want to share it with you now.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

241 | God Has Not Forgotten You with Shawn and Sandy Smith

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Joining me today are Shawn and Sandy Smith, who I had the opportunity to meet when they attended our first While We’re Waiting Weekend in Michigan a couple years ago. Their faith has been tested in ways most of us can hardly imagine—first, when Sandy was diagnosed with breast cancer, and then, just days later, when their six-year-old son Andrew was diagnosed with DIPG, an aggressive and terminal form of brain cancer.

Through every challenge, every difficult conversation, and every painful moment, Shawn and Sandy clung to their faith, trusting that God had a purpose even in their suffering. In this episode, they share how they walked through this unimaginable season with hope, how Andrew’s childlike faith and joy reflected the goodness of God, and how they found peace in His promises—even when healing on this earth was not part of His plan.

Their story is one of deep sorrow but also incredible trust in God’s sovereignty—a story of holding fast to His Word, even when the path ahead seemed impossible. If you’ve ever wrestled with faith in the face of suffering, this conversation will remind you that God has not forgotten you.

Be sure and come back next week to hear more of their story!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 170 | Weary

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

During this hospital stay, it hit me full force how weary Hannah was becoming. She had been so strong for so long, and her body (and mind) were finally wearing down. It was clear that she was in the process of dying, and as much as I didn't want her to go, I also didn't want to push her beyond her limits.

I really just wanted to take her home and let her live the time she had left without chemotherapy treatments, platelet infusions, spirometers, and isolation masks. It was time for her to rest.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 169 | Unwavering Faith

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

It may sound strange to say that even though Hannah had been battling brain cancer for nearly a year, she really hadn't been "sick" very much. Yes, she dealt with ongoing headaches, nausea, low platelets, and fatigue, but for the most part, she had been able to cope with these things and still live her life. Her only hospitalizations, other than her initial surgery, had been for fevers that spiked up when she was neutropenic. And during those hospitalizations, we would watch movies or TV shows together (one time we watched the entire Facts of Life series), and she took advantage of the opportunity to order chicken strips and macaroni & cheese from the ACH room service menu any time she wanted them. Sure, we would rather be home, but we always managed to have some fun together during our hospital stays.

This hospitalization was different. This time she was sick.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 168 | Mobility Issues

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0600

We were now using a wheelchair exclusively for our trips to Children's Hospital, and had become pretty well resigned to its use away from home. But as time went on, Hannah was becoming less and less able to walk independently, even in our home. She began to depend upon one of us to support her as she walked from the living room to her bedroom, and needed assistance to stand from a seated position. In an effort to allow her more independence, we ordered a walker from medical supply, thinking she could use that to get around the house without always having to wait on one of us to help her.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 167 | Peace that Passes All Understanding

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

One of the most painful parts of Hannah's cancer journey was witnessing the decline of her cognitive skills. She was a girl who had always taken great pride in being a straight-A student, consistently at the top of her class, always completing her work before it was due ... and suddenly she was having difficulty putting sentences together. She was becoming more and more quiet as the struggle to find words began to overtake her. It was around this time that we decided it was time to have a serious conversation with her about the future.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

240 | Broken for Better (Part Two) with Kurt and Denette Schaer

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Last Wednesday, I introduced you to Kurt and Denette Schaer, parents of Logan, a remarkable young man with a knack for making others feel “seen” and a deep desire to point people to Jesus. In May of 2022, just a few days after his high school graduation, Logan and a passenger died after he drove his car into a pond.

In today’s conversation, we delve deeper into the aftermath of that incident and how God continues to walk them through their grief. We cover a wide range of topics including how their grief journey continues to evolve, how God uses our weakness, advice for newly bereaved parents, and their commitment to make it count.

We also discuss their marriage ministry called Broken for Better, and Denette’s new book, Highly Favored?: Discovering Hope in the Shadows of Grief. This is a packed episode, and I’m glad you’ve joined us today!

Click HERE to connect with the Broken for Better Ministry.

Click HERE to listen to the Broken for Better podcast.

Click HERE to get the Kindle version of Denette's soon-to-be-released book, "Highly Favored?: Discovering Hope in the Shadows of Grief"

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 166 | Eternally Secure

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

As the days went by, it became more and more apparent that the chemotherapy Hannah was receiving was having very little, if any, effect. Her oncologist had been searching for a clinical trial or experimental treatment that we could try, but her consistently low platelet levels made her ineligible for any trials. There was nothing to do medically but continue on the path we were on.

Her earthly future was becoming more and more uncertain, but because of a decision she made when she was a little girl, we could rest in the fact that she was eternally secure.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 165 | Picking Winners

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

The long-awaited new season of American Idol was now underway, and as always, our family life began to revolve around watching the bi-weekly and sometimes tri-weekly episodes. This particular season included a young singer from Conway, Arkansas, named Kris Allen. Hannah spotted him in the first episode ... after all, he was from Arkansas, he was talented, and he was super cute! Naturally, he became her instant favorite. The next time the show aired, I said something about watching for the guy from Arkansas ... and Hannah said, "There's a guy from Arkansas?"

It was one of the most jarring indications yet that she was slipping away from us. Every episode she was able to watch that season included the exciting discovery all over again that there was a guy from Arkansas in the competition, and he was really doing well.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

239 | Broken for Better (Part One) with Kurt and Denette Schaer

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Kurt and Denette Schaer are the parents of three sons, including Logan, a young man with a knack for making others feel “seen” and a deep desire to point people to Jesus. In May of 2022, just a few days after his high school graduation, Logan and a passenger died after he drove his car into a pond, leaving the Schaers with a multitude of unanswered questions. Central to their journey has been their deep faith in God, which has enabled them to come to peace with not having all the answers. Lean in and be encouraged.

Click HERE to connect with the Broken for Better Ministry.

Click HERE to listen to the Broken for Better podcast.

Click HERE to learn more about Denette's soon-to-be-released book, "Highly Favored?: Discovering Hope in the Shadows of Grief"

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 164 | Hannah's Little Red Laptop

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

At some point during that year, I began to carry Hannah's red laptop with me on every trip to Children's Hospital. This laptop had been a surprise birthday gift for her back in October ... made even more special because all of our extended family contributed toward its purchase. Unfortunately, she had only a brief window of time that she was able to use it herself due to her vision issues.

At her appointments, there was always a lot of sitting around and waiting ... waiting for bloodwork to be done, waiting for platelets, waiting for chemo infusions ... and I wrote my emails on this little red laptop while sitting beside Hannah's bed as she often dozed through these procedures.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 163 | Facing Her Giants

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Just a couple weeks prior to a family gathering, the four of us had watched the movie "Facing the Giants" together. We had seen it before, when it was in the theaters, but when we watched the DVD at home during this season of our lives, the movie seemed to take on new meaning. The overarching themes of God's sovereignty in the uncertainties of life, never giving up, and facing our fears in His strength were very timely.

While everyone was at our house that weekend, Hannah announced that she wanted all of us to watch that movie together. We tried to decline, citing lack of space and the difficulty of getting everyone focused on watching a movie most of them had already seen in the middle of the afternoon. But she was insistent ... It was a good movie and we all must watch it together, no exceptions.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 162 | So Much Love

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

We were loved so well during Hannah's year-long cancer journey. My "summary" email from the day before prompted a virtual flood of emails filled with prayers, well wishes, encouraging words, and above all ... love. Even now, sixteen years later, I don't have the words to express how much the emails, cards, letters, gifts, phone calls, texts, etc., meant to our family as we walked through the fire. I still have them today ... and I am still so thankful.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

238 | She Died, I Didn't (Part Two) with Courtney Mount

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Courtney Mount, whose daughter Millie died from neuroblastoma cancer in July of 2020. Courtney is a homeschooling mom of nine, a blogger, a freelance writer, and the author of the children's book "Millie Finds her Miracle" and the "Embracing a Miracle" devotional journal.

Her latest book is titled “She Died, I Didn’t: A Mother's Story of Surviving Grief, Sustaining Faith, and Recognizing Miracles Along the Way. Today, we reflect on the challenges of returning to church after the loss of a child, grief in the context of marriage, honoring our children's memories while giving ourselves permission to let go of some traditions, the impact grief can have on our health, and the process of becoming a writer.

I believe our wide-ranging conversation will help you see that there truly is hope to be found after child loss, and that it is possible to live a full life even in the shadow of grief. I’m glad you’ve joined us today …

Click HERE to listen to the first half of today's conversation with Courtney.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my previous conversation with Courtney, and click HERE to listen to the second half.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of "She Died, I Didn't" on Amazon. It's available in paperback, hardback, and Kindle versions.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of "Millie Finds Her Miracle" on Amazon.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of the "Embracing a Miracle" devotional and companion journal.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 161 | The Telephone Game

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Do you remember playing the Telephone Game when you were a kid? It was best played with a large group of kids sitting in a circle. The first kid would think of a sentence (the longer the better) and whisper it into the ear of the kid sitting next to him, and so on. By the time it went all the way around the circle, the result was inevitably quite different than the original sentence which started the game.

That's what started to happen in our community and the communities surrounding it as Hannah's illness progressed. We began to hear rumors that the word on the streets was that Hannah's death was "imminent" or that the doctors had given her "two weeks to live." Neither of these things were true, at least as far as we knew, and we felt we needed to address these rumors before they went any further.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 160 | Platelets and Pasta

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Hannah's appetite was good at this point, probably stimulated by the steroids, and she still enjoyed going out to eat. With her poor vision and motor skills, it was a bit of a challenge getting her in and out of restaurants ... but if she wanted to go, we took her. On this particular day, it was Macaroni Grill, and she enjoyed her favorite dish -- Penne Rustica.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 159 | A Heavy Burden for Small Shoulders

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

At this point, I rarely went anywhere other than back and forth to Children's Hospital every other day. I was no longer working, I was unable to attend church, and even my trips to Walmart were rare. As Hannah's motor skills and vision began to decline, Brad began to accompany us more and more often on our trips to Little Rock to assist with transporting her.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 158 | Manna for Each Day

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

When I was a little girl, sitting in my Sunday School class in the basement of First Baptist Church of Phillips, Wisconsin, I learned all about the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for forty years, and how God gave them manna to eat. Our teacher described manna as little wafers that tasted like honey. I remember wishing I could taste manna, because I knew I would like it. Anything that tasted like honey had to be good. I remember thinking the Israelites were really lucky because they got to eat that stuff every day. Little did I know that someday I would be eating manna every day myself.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

237 | She Died, I Didn't (Part One) with Courtney Mount

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

I’m excited to welcome another return guest to the podcast today, my friend Courtney Mount, whose daughter Millie went to Heaven in July of 2020 following a battle with neuroblastoma cancer. Courtney is a homeschooling mom of nine, a blogger, a freelance writer, and the author of the Millie Finds her Miracle collection. Her latest book is titled "She Died, I Didn't: A Mother's Story of Surviving Grief, Sustaining Faith, and Recognizing Miracles Along the Way."

It’s so easy, after the loss of child, to feel that everything good in your life has died … honestly, leaving some parents to wonder if life is still worth living. I believe my conversation with Courtney over the next two episodes will help you see that there truly is hope to be found, and that it is possible to live a full life, even in the shadow of grief. I’m glad you’re here … Thanks for listening in!

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my previous conversation with Courtney, and click HERE to listen to the second half.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of "She Died, I Didn't" on Amazon. It's available in paperback, hardback, and Kindle versions.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of "Millie Finds Her Miracle" on Amazon.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of the "Embracing a Miracle" devotional and companion journal.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 157 | Wheel of Fortune

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

The increasing intracranial pressure impacted Hannah's pupils, making it impossible for her to read or do anything that required close-up vision, such as text on her phone or look at social media. She was able to see the television fairly well, so when she was awake, we generally passed the time watching TV. The one time of day she always seemed to be awake was early evening when Wheel of Fortune came on. We would watch it as a family, and even though she could barely see the screen, and might have even dozed off for a second or two while the contestants were spinning the wheel, she could beat every one of us when it came to solving the puzzles! Her mind was still as sharp as ever.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 156 | Reeling

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

The remainder of that brief hospital stay passed in a blur. The sudden roller-coaster plunge of the last couple of days had taken a toll on us. The news that the "very faint stuff" seen in the area of the original tumor on Hannah's MRI from just three weeks ago was now "regrowth of cancer cells" had left us reeling ... especially after being told that everything was stable. The sudden introduction of an additional chemotherapy drug with an entirely new slew of side effects was also a bit much to take in. At this point, we just wanted to go home and huddle together as a family.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 155 | A Body Blow

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

We woke up that morning with a renewed hope that maybe ... just maybe ... the treatments were working. Maybe all the increased issues we'd been seeing weren't actually signs she was leaving us, but just side effects of the chemo. After all, her MRI was good!

Then came the body blow.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 154 | An Emergency Room Visit

Sat, 04 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

We were truly thankful for the time Hannah was able to enjoy with our extended family over the Christmas season, because once the holidays were over and everyone had headed home, her health unexpectedly began to decline. Double vision had been an ongoing issue since she was first diagnosed, but it suddenly worsened and she struggled to get her eyes to focus together. A feeling of being "off balance" was also part of her normal daily life, but virtually overnight she began having to lean on the wall for support as she walked down the hall. With this troubling and sudden increase in symptoms, I called the oncologist on call at Children's Hospital (it was a Sunday morning) and we were told to bring her right in for an MRI.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 153 | Platelets with Family

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

After Christmas, my brother and sister-in-law came to spend a few days with us. This was a very special treat because they are career missionaries, and years could pass between their visits. They were able to accompany us to one of our Children’s Hospital platelet infusions, and I took one of my favorite photos of Hannah with her cousin that day. It was also one of the last photos taken of her before things really began to unravel.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

236 | The Mindful Marriage with Ron and Nan Deal

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Maybe you've heard the statistics ... that upwards of 80% of marriages fail after the loss of a child. Did you know that is actually a myth? Of course, the loss of a child is disruptive to all of our relationships, not just the marriage bond, but there are strategies we can learn to lessen these impacts.

Ron and Nan Deal join me to talk about their new book titled "The Mindful Marriage", which teaches principles of emotional self-regulation that are helpful for both couples and singles. It's not a "grief book", like most of the books we discuss on this podcast, but wow, does it contain some helpful information for those who grieve.

In our conversation today, Ron and Nan share very candidly about the struggles they’ve experienced in their own marriage, particularly since the loss of their son Connor in 2009, and how employing the principles described in their book have made a difference for them. You may want to grab a pencil and paper to take some notes because this episode is chock full of very practical information that will enhance your relationships with others. I believe you'll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to visit Ron's website, where you can learn more about The Mindful Marriage conference and book.

Click HERE to pre-order The Mindful Marriage on Amazon. It will be available for purchase on January 7, 2025.

Click HERE for Part One and HERE for Part Two of my conversation with Nan, in which she shares how God brought her out of the darkness of numbing behaviors after the loss of Connor.

Click HERE for Part One and HERE for Part Two of my conversation with Ron and Nan about the marriage relationship after child loss.

Click HERE to listen to Family Life Blended Podcast, hosted by Ron.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 152 | Christmas Break Concerns

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

We enjoyed some good visits with our extended family over Christmas break that year. Spending time with her cousins, aunts and uncles, and grandparents was one of Hannah's favorite things to do. When we traveled to northern Arkansas, my parents rented a room at a local hotel so all the cousins could have fun together in the swimming pool. The younger kids had a great time ... but Hannah didn't feel well enough to swim or even get in the water. She sat in a chair beside the pool and watched them play for awhile, then was ready to head to the room and go to bed. This was not like her at all, and our feelings of foreboding continued to rise.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 151 | A Word from Hannah's Dad

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

On the day after Christmas, we headed back to Children's Hospital for an uneventful platelet infusion. That evening, at his request, I handed the computer to Brad and he wrote our email for that day ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

235 | Christmas Hope

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

This is the first time since starting the podcast a little over four years ago that an episode was due to be released on Christmas Day. I considered skipping it, knowing that many people would be busy with family gatherings or church services and might not even have time to listen. But then I thought about how our family literally missed Christmas last year due to the incident my husband Brad had with an ATV on December 22nd, and I knew I couldn't skip it. It was a blessing to have Brad join me for a conversation about how God's been working in his life and in our family since that time. I believe it will be an encouragement to you.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 150 | Grace Like a Fitted Sheet

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Cancer doesn't take a break at Christmas time. Christmas fell on a Thursday in 2008, and Hannah needed platelet infusions on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The Hematology/Oncology Clinic at Children's was closed on Wednesday for Christmas Eve, so she actually had to be admitted to the general part of the hospital for a few hours to get her platelets. It took longer than usual to get her platelets since we had to go through the whole admissions process, and we were grateful to be heading home late that afternoon and looking forward to a quiet Christmas Day at home. We found ourselves very thankful for God's grace at this point in our journey.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 149 | A Unique Christmas Gift

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

As Christmas 2008 approached, we found ourselves in a very surreal position ... Profoundly grateful for the fact that Hannah was still with us, yet fully aware that without a miraculous intervention from God (and we absolutely believed that was possible), this would be our last Christmas with her. We could already sense her gradually slipping away from us bit by bit. That resulted in a very unique Christmas gift ... the awareness and appreciation of every moment we had together. Most families never get that. I am still thankful for that gift today.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

234 | Hope After Only Child Loss (Part Two) with John and Carrie Guenther

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with John and Carrie Guenther, whose only child Gideon went to Heaven in the fall of 2020. Today we go deeper in our discussion, including the Guenther’s advice for newly bereaved parents, their response to the dreaded “How many children do you have” question, what they’ve discovered about God’s character in their journey, and how they’re learning to manage the holidays after the loss of their only son. I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 148 | Finally ...

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

It was chemo day at last! Almost two months after this new chemo was recommended to start, it was finally underway. We weren't given the go-ahead because Hannah's platelet issues were resolved; no, we were starting in spite of the fact that they were not resolved. As Christmas approached, we were simply grateful to be moving forward with a plan for treatment and the possibility of a cure.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 147 | Unexpected MRI

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Today was the day Hannah would finally be starting her long-postponed chemotherapy treatments, and a predicted ice storm was not going to keep us away! We were anxious to find out when her new MRI would be scheduled so we could get some answers to the increased nausea and headaches she was experiencing. Our appointment at Children's Hospital was at 9:45 that morning, and we were hopeful for an uneventful chemo infusion so we could be back home in front of the fireplace before the bad weather really set in. But when we arrived, things took an unexpected turn.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 146 | Rising Concerns

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

After our appointment on Monday, we expected that Hannah would continue with school since she was still not able to start chemo. Instead, the ongoing side effects from the radiation began to unexpectedly intensify. The morning nausea and near-constant headaches were increasing, preventing her from attending school. This exacerbation caused us to question whether her issues were indeed still due to side effects of the radiation treatments ... or something else. We contacted her oncologist at Children's and let him know what was going on, and he immediately put some steps into motion.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

233 | Hope After Only Child Loss with John and Carrie Guenther

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

I am so excited today to introduce you to my friends John and Carrie Guenther. We met the Guenthers when they attended our very first While We’re Waiting Weekend in Ohio back in September of 2023. As they shared the story of their son Gideon at that retreat, I was struck not just by the grace with which they expressed it, but by the profound loss parents who lose their only child endure. I’m excited to present our conversation to you over the next two weeks … I pray that it will give you a new compassion for those who have no surviving children, and if you find yourself in that group, I pray that this episode will make you feel seen and loved.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 145 | More Delays ...

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

As much as we were enjoying the relative normalcy of both girls being back in school leading up to Christmas break, we were really beginning to feel the urgency of starting chemotherapy before too much time elapsed following radiation. The initial plan had been to start her new chemo treatments at the beginning of November, and here we were approaching the middle of December and she had yet to have her first infusion.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 144 | Empty Me

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Hannah's brain cancer diagnosis did not legally preclude her from driving, but we all agreed it was best that she not drive during her treatments. So I ended up driving her around a lot during that year, including those days she returned to school in early December of 2008. One day as I drove her home from school, one of her favorite songs came on K-LOVE radio -- "Empty Me" by American Idol contestant Chris Sligh.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 143 | A Hero in My Eyes

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In a previous episode, I described the moment Hannah first became my hero. They day she returned to school for the first time since her cancer recurrence in September was the second.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

232 | Heartache and Hope with Melanie DeSimone

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Melanie DeSimone is well-known in the bereaved parent community as the author of the blog “The Life I Didn’t Choose”, which has had over 4,000,000 hits since its inception in 2014. She writes daily … pithy, practical posts … that speak directly to the hearts of grieving parents. Over the last several months, the Lord has led her to expand her ministry beyond just writing. Today we have a wide-ranging conversation that includes the story of her son Dominic, why she began writing, where she finds herself ten years into her grief journey, and the new mission the Lord has laid on her heart.

Click HERE to read Melanie's blog, "The Life I Didn't Choose".

Click HERE to learn more about Melanie's new ministry, "Heartache and Hope".

Click HERE to listen to my previous conversation with Melanie, where she shares more of her own personal story with the loss of Dominic.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 142 | Ready for Battle

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Even as we enjoyed our family time over the Thanksgiving holiday, we found ourselves looking ahead to Monday when Hannah would finally get to start her new chemotherapy treatments. The reprieve from treatments had been wonderful, and we were so glad Hannah was finally feeling more like herself, but we were really beginning to feel the urgency to get back to fighting this cancer. Every day that passed without treatment felt like an opportunity for the cancer to gain a deeper foothold in her brain and spine.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 141 | Christmas Crooners

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

As we stepped through our holiday traditions, Brad and I were fully cognizant that this could be the last time we did these things together as a family of four. My emails gave no indication of what an excruciatingly difficult time this was for us as Hannah's parents. We were beginning to see daily indications that she was already leaving us, little by little. They were small things ... nothing that a casual observer would see ... nothing we could even specifically identify ... but the signs were there nonetheless. All we could do was savor every moment of our time together as a family, lean in, and trust God for the future.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

231 | Waiting Well With Jesus (Part Two) with Lynda Wake

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Welcome to episode #231, which is a continuation of my conversation with Lynda Wake, who is a wife, mom (or “mum” as she would say it), and grandmother. She is also the author of two amazing devotional books, “Heartbreakingly Beautiful” and “Waiting Well With Jesus”, and the founder of the BE Blessings ministry, which you’ll hear more about today.

Last week, Lyn shared the story of how her daughter Bethany was diagnosed with inoperable terminal brain cancer at the tender age of fifteen. Today we get deeper into her story, including her advice for newly bereaved parents, what she’s learned about the character of God, and how she’s experienced His faithfulness over the past thirteen years. We’re also going to have our first-ever giveaway, so be sure to listen in for that! We will pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

GIVEAWAY - (EDIT - The book has been claimed!) I have ONE copy of Lynda's 52-week devotional "Heartbreakingly Beautiful" to give away. I will mail it to the first person to email me at jill@whilewerewaiting.org.

To purchase your own copy of "Waiting Well with Jesus" visit your local Christian bookstore and ask them to order it ... or you can order one on Amazon HERE:

Click HERE to learn more about the Be Blessings ministry!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 140 | Good Medicine

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

We returned to the Hem/Onc clinic at Arkansas Children's Hospital on Monday morning, fully prepared for Hannah to be admitted so she could finally start her new chemotherapy treatments. But when her bloodwork showed a platelet level of 3,000 (normal is over 150,000), we knew we would not be starting that day. With a platelet count that low, she was at risk for excessive bleeding ... and excessive bleeding is a potential side effect of Avastin, the chemotherapy drug she would be receiving. Her red blood counts were also quite low, so instead of chemo, Hannah spent the day receiving transfusions of platelets and blood.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 139 | Secret Service

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Though Hannah's ANC was rising, she was technically still in isolation due to her low blood counts. In spite of this, we made the decision to attend one of Bethany's basketball games together as a family. We sat by ourselves in an empty area of the bleachers. Several well-wishers came by to speak to Hannah, and that was great, but we didn't allow them to come within more than a few feet of her. We joked that we were her "secret service agents." She cheered for her sister, enthusiastically consumed a Frito pie, and enjoyed a few moments of near-normalcy that evening.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

230 | Waiting Well with Jesus (Part One) with Lynda Wake

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Lynda Wake and her husband have served with Wycliffe Bible Translators since 1998, and currently reside in Melbourne, Australia. She is a grandmother of two and a mom of four, including her daughter Bethany Joy who lived her brief life to the max! She is the author of two devotional books, “Heartbreakingly Beautiful” and “Waiting Well with Jesus”, and the founder of BE Blessings ministry. Lyn will be my guest over the next two episodes as she shares God’s faithfulness in her journey with Bethany, which is remarkably similar to my own. I believe you will be blessed by our conversation today.

To get your own copy of "Waiting Well with Jesus" visit your local Christian bookstore and ask them to order it ... or you can order one on Amazon HERE:

Click HERE to learn more about the Be Blessings ministry!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 138 | No Other Explanation

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Hannah's Facebook status from sixteen years ago today was this ... "Hannah is back from the hospital for the second time in 2 weeks but feeling great!"

And an excerpt my email ... I wanted to spend a few minutes talking about Hannah in my update today. I don't usually say much about her personally, because she is a very private person and has been somewhat uncomfortable with so much attention focused on her over the past several months. However, after spending 24 hours a day with her for most of the past two weeks, there are some observations I'd really like to make.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 137 | An Upward Trend

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

So after being told we would be in the hospital a few more days ... Boom, just like that, they were telling us we would be heading home tomorrow. A welcome disruption to our schedule for once! As long as Hannah's counts continued their upward trend, we would be busting out of the hospital soon and we couldn't have been more pleased!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 136 | Freedom from the Calendar

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

My name is Jill Sullivan ... and I have a calendar problem. I like calendars. A lot. I love filling in all the little boxes with appointments and special dates and activities. (Not that I want to do all the activities -- as an introvert, I enjoy writing them down much more than actually doing them, ha!) I even keep my calendars from year to year ... in fact, I still have my planner from this week in November 2008.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 135 | Middle of the Night Weigh-Ins

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Hospital life is strange. You would think that the doctors and nurses want the sick person to rest ... but no ... you would think wrongly. All through the day -- and all through the night -- there are blood pressure checks, antibiotic infusions, and temperature measurements. There are even people who come in and clean the room during the night -- they flip on the lights, sweep the floor, bang the trash cans around, etc. And of course, there are the beeping IV monitors when a little air gets in the line. But the strangest thing Hannah was asked to do was climb out of bed at some wee hour of the morning (every morning) and stand on a scale so they could check her weight. I never could figure out why it was necessary to do that while the rest of the world was sleeping.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

229 | The Moon is Round (Part Two) with Molly Huffman

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Molly Huffman is my guest on the podcast again today. She is a wife, a mom, a stepmom, and the author of a wonderful book titled “The Moon Is Round: A True Story of Extraordinary Loss, Grief, and the Fight for Faith.” Last week, Molly shared the story of how her precious son Tage was diagnosed with a terminal genetic disease when he was just six months old, and the hard and holy privilege she had to mother him until he went to Heaven two months later. Today we look back on the past ten years of grieving Tage and how God has taught her that no matter what happens, the moon is always round. We pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to get a copy of Molly's book on Amazon!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 134 | Learning to Wait Patiently

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0600

We had all thought, rather naively, I suppose, that once this second round of radiation treatments was completed, Hannah would have some time to enjoy just being a typical teenager for awhile before starting chemotherapy treatments. She was excited at the prospect of having a healthy immune system and no longer being isolated. She had not attended school since September, when we pulled her out of class to inform her that her cancer had returned, and she was anxious to get back. After all, if she was to achieve her goal to be the valedictorian of her senior class next year, she couldn't fall too far behind!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 133 | The Magic Number

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Anyone who has known me for more than five minutes knows that I am a "control enthusiast." I like my plans to be made in advance, my schedule to fall neatly into place, and my calendar to be without eraser marks.

A cancer diagnosis is a great reminder that none of us are really in control of anything From one moment to the next, things can change rapidly. The day after Hannah set up my Facebook page, and just three days after being released from the hospital, we found ourselves on the way back.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 132 | "Eww ... My Mom Has a Facebook"

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago today, Hannah and I sat down together at our big desktop computer and she helped me set up my Facebook page. And she also wrote the very first post on my page ... "Eww ... My Mom has a Facebook! jk jk" It still makes me smile today! :)

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 131 | "Greatly Improved"

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

"Greatly improved." The two most beautiful words in the English language ten years ago today. There were still a lot of questions ... Would Hannah need additional radiation? How would this new chemotherapy affect her? Did the fact that the treatments were working mean that a cure was actually possible? There was so much we didn't know.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 130 | There's No Place Like Home

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

One thing about a week-long stay in the hospital ... It sure makes you appreciate a good night's sleep in your own bed! The folks at Children's Hospital do their best to accommodate parents who stay in the rooms with their children, and provide either a reasonably comfortable recliner-type chair or a cushioned bench-type area in front of the window (can you say drafty?), but it's a far cry from the comforts of home.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 129 | Encouraging News

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

We were greatly encouraged by the news that the radiation had been effective in shrinking and even eliminating some of the tumors on Hannah's spine and brainstem. It made all the trips back and forth to Little Rock, the painful throat, the isolation ... even the hair loss .. all worthwhile! We understood that this put her in a much more favorable position for the new chemotherapy regimen to finish the job. Before we could move forward, though, we needed her ANC to improve!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

228 | The Moon is Round (Part One) with Molly Huffman

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

I am excited today to introduce you to my friend Molly Huffman, who is a wife, a mom, a stepmom, and the author of a wonderful book titled “The Moon Is Round”.

She joins me today to share her experience with both the loss of her mother and the story of her son, Tage, who was diagnosed with a terminal genetic disease at just six months of age. We discuss the hard and holy privilege of that journey, and the importance of biblical lament in her grieving process. Be sure to come back next week as she shares more of her story of loss, grief, and redemption.

Click HERE to get a copy of Molly's excellent book!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 128 | God Doesn't Give Us a Road Map

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0600

I'm so thankful God did not give us a road map sixteen years ago. If we had known the destination, I'm not sure we could have kept on walking. As it was, He gave us just enough grace for each step.

My email from sixteen years ago today explains ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 127 | Neutropenia

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

When you have a child who has been diagnosed with cancer, you quickly acquire an entirely new vocabulary. Our current word of the week was "neutropenia."

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 126 | Room Service

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0600

While we were still somewhat surprised to be hospitalized, we adjusted quickly to our new surroundings. This was Hannah's first hospitalization since her brain surgery in February ... which is pretty amazing in and of itself, considering all the treatments she'd been through. Arkansas Children's Hospital does an amazing job of making their patients as comfortable as possible. Hannah particularly enjoyed the room service menu ... She could order anything from the menu at pretty much any time of day and they would bring it right to her. She was especially fond of the chicken fingers and the macaroni and cheese. Even with her very sore throat from all the radiation, we were thankful she felt well enough to enjoy the room service!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 125 | Sudden Change of Plans

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0500

We arrived at Arkansas Children's Hospital on Monday morning all prayed up and psyched up for Hannah's MRI. We had no idea we would be admitted to the hospital instead.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 124 | Cue the Scanxiety

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Fifty-two radiation sessions completed. Seven months of chemotherapy treatments in the rear view mirror. Countless needle sticks. Multiple bags of blood products on board. A bald head and an extremely sore throat to show for it. And one MRI scan which would reveal whether or not any of these treatments had had any effect against the tumors in Hannah's brain and spine. And we had to wait through the weekend to get it done ... Cue the scanxiety!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

227 | Living On Earth With Our Eyes on Heaven (Part Two) with John and Lisa Cleland

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to episode #227, which is a continuation of my conversation with John and Lisa Cleland. Last week the Clelands shared with us the story of their son Zac, who was fulfilling his dream of serving as a United States Marine until December of 2021, when he was the victim of fentanyl poisoning. Today, they very honestly discuss the impact of losing a son to fentanyl and the faithfulness of God as they seek to live life on earth with their eyes on Heaven.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 123 | A Word About Siblings

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0500

One difficult aspect of Hannah's cancer journey was how it affected Bethany. You might remember that when Hannah was first diagnosed, she was in the middle of a prolonged battle against mono. Once she finally recovered from that, she jumped back into all of her school, social, and church activities.

But no matter where she went, she was no longer Bethany ... she was "the girl whose sister has cancer." We lived in a very small community, and her dad was the high school principal, so our story got a lot of attention. As Brad and I became more and more involved in Hannah's healthcare, Bethany was forced to the front lines. At 13 years old, she became the face of our family in the community.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 122 | "No More Radiation"

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah's Facebook status from sixteen years ago today was this ... "Hannah is gonna give God the glory when all this is said and done ... no more radiation!"

We were so thrilled that Hannah had come through 52 total radiation treatments relatively unscathed. The dreaded side effects outlined at the beginning of the process, for the most part, had not manifested themselves. Yes, she was bald, her blood counts had taken a pretty good hit, and her throat was mighty sore, but overall, she seemed to be doing remarkably well. We knew there were a number of negative long-term side effects of full brain radiation, but we brushed those concerns aside. After all, what could we do about those? The radiation had been necessary for Hannah's survival, and in about a week, an MRI would reveal how successful it had been.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 121 | Isolated ... But Not Alone

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah was now isolated ... but she wasn't alone ... not really. God was with her every step of the way. He had redeemed her and called her by name. There's no other explanation for how she could have accepted everything that happened to her with such grace and peace. I'm so thankful that even though she was isolated, she was never truly alone.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 120 | Isolation

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah's facebook status from sixteen years ago today was this: "Hannah is frusturated that my immune system is so low that I can't go anywhere besides the hospital ... but only 2 radiations to go so it should get better soon!"

I love how Hannah acknowledges her "frusturation" in this status, yet comes back to the positive side ... reminding her readers that things should get better soon. She kept that attitude throughout her year-long cancer battle, even as the extensive radiation treatments were beginning to take a greater and greater physical toll on her.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 119 | No Need to Hurry

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

One frustrating thing about Hannah's care is that we rarely had the opportunity to talk privately with her healthcare providers. Hannah was always present, listening attentively, while her doctors and nurses talked with us about her most recent scans, blood work results, treatment plans, etc. I always wondered how honest they were really being when Hannah was sitting right there with us soaking it all in.

When Hannah was taken back to have her PICC line inserted, I had a rare few minutes alone with her primary care nurse. The nurse spent part of that time reviewing the at-home care that the PICC line was going to entail, then asked if I had any questions. I did have a question ... a burning question ... but I wasn't sure I could pull myself together well enough to ask it.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

226 | Living on Earth with Our Eyes on Heaven (Part One) with John and Lisa Cleland

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I had the great privilege of visiting with John and Lisa Cleland on the occasion of their son Zac’s 29th birthday recently, and I am pleased to share our conversation with you today. In today’s episode, we hear about Zac and his service to our country as a proud United States Marine right up until his death under mysterious circumstances in December of 2021. Be sure to come back next week for the rest of his story, and to hear how the Clelands have learned to live on earth with their eyes on Heaven.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 118 | No More Needle Sticks

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0500

By this point in her treatment, Hannah had endured hundreds of "sticks" ... often two or three in one visit because it was so hard to find a good vein on her. She was such a pro at it, she would often calmly coach the nurses on just which vein to use or how to hold the needle just right in order to have a successful blood draw.

With all the platelet infusions she was needing and the IV-administered chemotherapy drug she would soon be receiving, it was finally time to give her some relief from all the needle sticks.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 117 | Hannah's 17th Birthday

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

October 22nd was always a day to look forward to in our home. It was a joyful mile marker, a date to celebrate another year of our precious girl's life.

October 22, 2008, was a little different. Hannah's 17th birthday came around just three weeks after we found out that her cancer had returned with a vengeance. Three weeks after her doctor, with tears in his eyes, told us that she had less than a five percent chance of survival. And three days after she lost every strand of her beautiful, thick, curly hair.

How do you celebrate your child's birthday, knowing that unless God does a miracle, it will be her last? Of course, we knew that God could heal her at any time, but we also knew that in His omniscience, He may choose not to.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 116 | "Annoying" Platelet Issues

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah's facebook status from sixteen years ago today was this ... "Hannah is enjoying being home after the annoying day of another platelet transfusion."

Hannah rarely complained, so this expression of annoyance revealed a lot about how she felt about platelet transfusions. She had battled platelet issues off and on throughout the early months of her treatment, and once again, low platelets were becoming an ongoing problem.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 115 | Of Razors and Wigs

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

The timing of all these wonderful early birthday gifts couldn't have been better, because the day we had been dreading for so long was suddenly upon us. After all the extended family headed home for the weekend, Hannah reached up to take out her ponytail holder ... and nearly all of her hair came out with it.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 114 | An Early Birthday Soiree'

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

As Hannah's 17th birthday rapidly approached, I was struggling a little bit with how we were going to celebrate this event with her prognosis dangling over our heads. How could we possibly wring any joy out of this birthday, which, without a miracle, would almost certainly be her last?

Thankfully, our amazing family and friends made made the days leading up to her birthday so special ... not just for Hannah, but for all of us.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

225 | Broken Pieces (Part Two) with Donna Evans

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

In our last episode, Donna Evans shared the challenges and joys of raising her special-needs son James Bruce to adulthood, and the deep grief she experienced when he unexpectedly went to Heaven in February of 2022. Today we have a great conversation about the sovereignty of God in the midst of our broken pieces and the ministry He has given her because of her role as mom to James Bruce. I’m glad you’re here, because I believe you’re in for a blessing!

Click HERE to visit Donna's blog and see all the wonderful resources she has available!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 113 | Mother/Daughter Spa Day

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0500

During the year Hannah was battling cancer we received many wonderful gifts. People were so incredibly kind. After the recurrence of her cancer, hot meals were brought to our home nearly every day by people in our little community and from our church and that was such a blessing. I had little opportunity to go to the grocery store during those days, much less cook! One kind friend gave us a gift certificate for facials and pedicures at a local spa, and the girls and I had the opportunity to make a sweet memory together!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 112 | Family Photo Shoot

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago we spent the weekend at the Sullivan family farm and gathering place in the tiny town of Briggsville, Arkansas. While we were there, my sister-in-law pulled out her camera and we did a family photo shoot. Hannah's hair was really starting to let loose and we wanted to get some pictures of our family before it fell out completely.

Posing for those pictures that day was surreal, as we did so with the full awareness that unless God miraculously intervened, these could very well be the last family photos we would ever take. Of course, we didn't want the girls to know that, so we posed as directed and smiled on cue. Oh, what a treasure those pictures are today!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

224 | Broken Pieces (Part One) with Donna Evans

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Donna Evans is a wife, mother, and grandmother, author, and conference speaker. Her life was enriched by raising her son James Bruce to adulthood, and she has much to share about both the challenges and blessings of parenting a child with special needs.

When James Bruce was five years old, her husband challenged her to stop praying that God would make him “normal” and start praying for God to use him for His glory. Over time, she began to give her broken pieces to God; and when Brucie unexpectedly went to Heaven in February of 2022, she experienced His faithfulness in completely new ways.

I believe you’ll be encouraged by what Donna has to share! Be sure to come back next week as we continue our conversation about God’s sovereignty in the midst of broken pieces.

Click HERE to visit Donna's blog and see all the wonderful resources she has available.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 111 | Having Better Days

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Hannah's facebook status from sixteen years ago today was, "Hannah is having better days ... getting ready to leave for radiation." And they truly were better days. At this point, she was sailing through the radiation treatments with relatively few side effects. She was thrilled to be well enough to attend a high school football game that weekend and spend some time with her friends.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 110 | Somewhere on the Highway In Between

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

After the cancer recurrence, Hannah and I spent most of our time together just the two of us. Brad was at work, Bethany was at school, and she and I were either at home, at CARTI, at Children's Hospital, or somewhere on the highway in between those places. And somehow, even with a glioblastoma diagnosis hanging over our heads, we enjoyed that time together. I am so thankful for those days.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 109 | Homecoming 2008

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Since the recurrence of Hannah's cancer, she had not returned to school, and I had not returned to work. We pretty much stayed holed up in our house, only venturing out for doctors' appointments and radiation treatments. And she and I were fine with that, honestly ... as homebodies we both enjoyed that time together at home.

Eventually you have to come out, though, and about a week after we learned that Hannah's cancer had returned, I attended a homecoming pep rally at the high school. I had not been out in public in our little community since Hannah's doctor had informed us that she had basically no chance of survival, and I was extremely fragile emotionally. I would never have even gone to this pep rally, except for the fact that Bethany was cheering and I felt that I needed to be there to support her. I had already missed so many of her activities due to Hannah's illness.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

223 | Restoring Hope (Part Two) with Billy and Julie Melton

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Billy and Julie Melton's adult daughter Juliana went to Heaven in 2018 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Today we discuss a wide range of topics, including the holidays, the marriage relationship after child loss, their favorite books, God’s purposes in suffering, and the ministry they started to support grieving parents in their area of North Carolina. We jump into our conversation right where we left off last week. I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Contact Julie at juliermelton@gmail.com for more information about the Restoring Hope ministry!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 108 | "It's Only Hair"

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Hannah had been so relieved when her oncologist told her that her new chemotherapy drug shouldn't cause hair loss. But when her new radiology oncologist told me that, without a doubt, the radiation would cause her to lose all of her hair, I was heartbroken for her. Thankfully, she accepted the news in typical Hannah fashion.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 107 | A Little More Time

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

It was a bit surreal to find ourselves returning to CARTI just five months after Hannah's initial round of radiation treatments were completed, preparing to start all over again. While I was sitting with Hannah as they created a new mask for her, Brad talked privately with her radiation oncologist. The doctor explained to him that we should not view these new radiation treatments as a potential "cure", but that they might give Hannah a little more time. Up to that point, none of these medical people had talked to us in terms of "time." Our understanding had always been that we were working toward a cure. Very gradually, we were beginning to come to an awareness that all our efforts were simply to give her "a little more time."

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 106 | Googling Glioblastoma

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

The day we returned to Arkansas Children's Hospital to have the sutures removed after Hannah's brain surgery in February 2008, we were told that her tumor was a Grade IV Glioblastoma Multiforme. My brain immediately started whirring; mentally spelling out g-l-i-o-b-l-a-s-t-o-m-a, fully intending to google it the second we got home. Then the doctor's voice brought me back to that little treatment room ... he was saying, "Now, don't go home and google glioblastoma. You won't like what you read about it ... and besides, what you read won't really apply to Hannah anyway. Most people who get glioblastomas are older and the prognosis is not good. She's young and healthy, and with treatment, I think there's a possibility of a cure."

So initally, we didn't google glioblastoma. But with the recurrence, I decided it was time to google, and the doctor was right. I didn't like what I found.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 105 | Less Than 5%

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago today, our family headed to Arkansas Children's Hospital with a suitcase in tow, having no clear idea what was in store for us. We knew we would be meeting with Hannah's oncologist that morning to discuss the MRI results and find out what our plan was now that her cancer had returned. We had been told to come prepared to spend at least one night, maybe more, so a new chemotherapy regimen could be started immediately.

Our oncologist was kind but honest when we met with him that day. He showed us the scans and gently and thoroughly explained what was going on in Hannah's brain and spine. He looked the four of us square in our eyes and told us that Hannah had less than a 5% chance of survival with this recurrence.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

222 | Restoring Hope (Part One) with Billy and Julie Melton

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Juliana Melton Lagesse was a redhead with a contagious laugh and a zest for life who never met a stranger. She had a passion for ministry and for worship, and was a newlywed when she was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Her mom and dad, Billy and Julie Melton, join me today to share her story, which is similar to my own in so many ways. Then I hope you'll come back next week, when we broaden our discussion to include include a wide range of issues faced by bereaved parents and talk about the ministry they’ve founded to support bereaved parents in Greensboro, North Carolina. I believe you'll be encouraged by what they have to share!

Contact Julie at juliermelton@gmail.com for more information about the Restoring Hope ministry!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 104 | "I'm Gonna Give God Glory"

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago today, I called our oncology nurse at Children's at 8:00 am and asked her if the scan results were in yet. Of course, they weren't. I explained to her how what had started as a simple brain scan had turned into a lengthy brain and spine scan and she was surprised to hear that. She assured me that as soon as she received the results, she would call me. I waited around the house for about an hour, trying to find things that needed doing, but I couldn't focus on anything and was too restless to just sit and wait. Finally, I got in my car and began driving. I didn't have any destination in mind, I just knew I had to keep moving.

I drove around aimlessly for quite awhile until finally, my cell phone rang. The caller ID showed Children's Hospital, so I parked the car and answered it. The nurse told me that the results were in, and I clearly remember her pausing, then quietly saying, "It's bad."

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 103 | "Just to Make Sure"

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

As the calendar turned to September, I began to detect almost imperceptible signs that something was not quite right with Hannah. I can't even explain what I was seeing ... I really don't even know what it was specifically. But I remember crying to Brad one night (actually several nights) that I felt like she was leaving us, bit by tiny bit. Then, as September neared its end, Hannah began to experience waves of nausea. She had experienced queasiness and nausea on and off since prior to her diagnosis in February of that year, but this was different.

We waited for a few days, thinking it would pass ... thinking it was due to the chemo drug she was taking five days out of every month (she was in the middle of those five days when it started). We also thought it could be a stomach virus, because there was a vicious one being passed around in our community at that time. But when it didn't pass, I called our oncology nurse at Arkansas Children's Hospital. She talked to our doctor, and they decided to move up her MRI appointment. Hannah had just had a clean MRI about seven weeks earlier, and she wasn't scheduled for another until September 29th, but five days before that, on September 24th, we found ourselves in the basement at ACH, getting ready for Hannah's turn in the tube. Today's episode describes that day.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 102 | Tears at the Beauty Shop

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I'm not normally a crier...I hate to cry in front of people, even my own family members. I don't even cry very often when I'm alone. But there are times when the tears get started and they just won't stop.

Sixteen years ago today was one of those days. I had an appointment to get a haircut that day, and I almost canceled it because Hannah was still so sick. But I decided to go ahead and go ... I had a feeling it would be awhile before I had another opportunity for a hair cut.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 101 | Stomach Bug

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

It never fails. Shortly after school starts back every fall, there's a bout of stomach virus that goes around. With kids once again in close proximity to one another in crowded classrooms, the dreaded bug seems to spread like wildfire. Few are spared its ugly effects.

In the fall of 2008, the stomach bug made its way to our home, and Hannah was its first victim. At least we thought it was the stomach virus. It was hard to tell, because it struck right in the middle of her chemo week, and it lingered on and on. The Temodar drug she took always caused some nausea, but not like this. She even commented about it on her Facebook page ... "Hannah wants to feel normal again ... this stomach virus will just not go away!"

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

221 | Permission to Grieve with Molly Huffman

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Molly Huffman's son Tage was diagnosed with a terminal genetic disease shortly after his birth in 2014, and he went to Heaven at the age of 8 months old, leaving her deep in sorrow. Today's episode features Molly's presentation at last year’s Our Hearts Are Home conference and in this session, she walks us through her favorite biblical passage related to grief. By the end of her presentation, you will understand that you are known and seen by God, that He grieves with you, and that there is purpose in your grief. There's a lot of wisdom here, and I believe you'll be blessed by listening in.

Molly is the author of the outstanding book "The Moon Is Round". You can find it on Amazon by clicking HERE.

Click HERE to register, or to get more information about, the Our Hearts Are Home conference scheduled for October 10-11, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. I would love to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 100 | Hannah - In Her Own Words

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago today, Hannah turned in a rough draft of an essay to her second period English teacher. The students had been assigned the task of writing about an experience that impacted their life.

Today's episode is Hannah's story in her own words.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 99 | Right On Target

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

We arrived home from the American Idol concert experience on Sunday evening. The remnants of Hurricane Ike had blown themselves out and so had the storm in my mind ... at least somewhat. Monday brought our regular clinic visit for blood work and some much-needed reassurance that things were going well. My email from sixteen years ago today reveals no trace of the disquiet simmering just beneath the surface ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 98 | A Building Storm

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago today, my girls and I continued our tradition of attending American Idol concerts together. Hannah was so excited to go, and couldn't wait to cheer on David Cook, her favorite singer that year. But the onset of fatigue and dizziness caused us to leave the concert early that evening. As I drove home through the stormy weather that night, a storm began to build inside of me. While the car was battered by the weather and the girls dozed in the back seat, the realization gradually grew in me of how seriously ill Hannah really was. For the first time, my mind began to entertain the possibility that Hannah might not survive this.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

220 | Beautifully Broken (Part Two) with Pat Elsberry

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Pat Elsberry. Last week Pat introduced us to her daughter Melanie, and talked about the day she received a phone call from a police detective informing her that Melanie had been found dead in a hotel room from an accidental drug overdose. Today we discuss the brokenness she experienced in the days that followed and how she has found hope, even amid heartbreak, and we jump right in where we left off last week.

Pat Elsberry is the author of the book “Beautifully Broken – Finding Hope During Loss”. She is also a blogger and a regular contributor for an organization called “Wisdom Hunters”. She has a new book coming out this month called “Comforted by God,” which is a 100-day devotional for those who are grieving.

Click HERE to visit Pat's website where you can read her blog, get a copy of her book, and be notified when her new devotional comes out!

Click HERE for more information about the Our Hearts Are Home conference coming up October 10-11, 2024, in Indianapolis.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 97 | Sailing Through

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

At this point, Hannah was pretty much sailing through her treatments ... in fact, those were her oncologist's exact words! Other than the fact that her hair was still a little thin in spots due to the radiation treatments, nobody would have guessed that she was battling brain cancer. We were feeling really good about where we were at this point in the process. I'm so thankful we weren't aware of the storm clouds building on the horizon.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

219 | Beautifully Broken (Part One) with Pat Elsberry

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I’m so pleased to introduce you to my new friend Pat Elsberry. Her beautiful daughter Melanie died from an accidental drug overdose in February of 2020, after years of battling substance use disorder. In today’s episode, Pat shares the struggles she and Melanie walked through together, and about the day she received a phone call from a police detective informing her that her worst nightmare had come true. Be sure to come back next week as we discuss the brokenness she experienced after Melanie’s homegoing and how she has found hope, even in the midst of heartbreak.

Pat is a blogger and author of the book “Beautifully Broken – Finding Hope During Loss”, and she also writes for an organization called “Wisdom Hunters”. She has a new book coming out this month called “Comforted by God,” which is a 100-day devotional for those who are grieving.

Click HERE to visit Pat's website where you can read her blog, get a copy of her book, and be notified when her new devotional comes out!

Click HERE for more information about the Our Hearts Are Home conference coming up October 10-11, 2024, in Indianapolis.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 96 | Fashion Advice

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah and I were good shopping buddies ... the last year or so that we shopped together, she really took it upon herself to move her mom out of the '80's. She enjoyed critiquing the outfits I tried on and giving me fashion advice. I loved it. One of her favorite shows was "What Not To Wear" (after American Idol, of course!) and she always laughingly talked about submitting my name to Clinton and Stacey. I apparently needed more help than even she could give me! I sure miss those days.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

218 | In the Wrestle (Part 3) with Janet Boxx

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the third and final installment of my conversation with Janet Boxx! If you’ve missed the last two episodes, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of her son Cole, who was stillborn in 1992, and the story of her daughters Bethany and Katie, who were killed in a violent car collision in 2013. Today Janet shares more of the wisdom she’s gained through her wrestle with grief over the past 32 years, and I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to find "Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy" by Mark Vroegop on Amazon.

Here is the full text of the poem referred to in this episode:

He Maketh No Mistake

by A. M. Overton

My Father's way may twist and turn,
My heart may throb and ache,
But in my soul I'm glad I know,
He maketh no mistake.

My cherished plans may go astray,
My hopes may fade away,
But still I'll trust my Lord to lead
For He doth know the way.

Though night be dark and it may seem
That day will never break;
I'll pin my faith, my all in Him,
He maketh no mistake.

There's so much now I cannot see,
My eyesight's far too dim;
But come what may, I'll simply trust
And leave it all to Him.

For by and by the mist will lift
And plain it all He'll make,
Through all the way, though dark to me,
He made not one mistake.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 95 | Half Way There

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Six months. Half a year. That's how much time had passed since Hannah's brain surgery. It had been a trying six months, to be sure ... but by this point cancer had subtly slipped into the background of our daily lives. After the initial flurry of radiation treatments and clinic visits, things had settled into a surprisingly comfortable routine. It's still amazing to me how quickly we had adjusted to the lifestyle, the vocabulary, and the ongoing monitoring of the cancer experience.

We had been told that she would be receiving chemotherapy treatments for a year, so it was a good feeling to know that we were at the half-way point.

We didn't know at the time that we actually were at the half-way point of Hannah's journey ... just in a different way than we thought.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

217 | In the Wrestle (Part Two) with Janet Boxx

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode features a continuation of my conversation with Janet Boxx. Last week, Janet shared about the loss of her son Cole to stillbirth and introduced us to her three daughters, Bethany, Gracen, and Katie. As we pick up the story today, she talks about the violent collision that took place the day after Christmas in 2013, which resulted in the deaths of two of her daughters, and the challenge of wrestling through the grief that followed.

Click HERE to connect with Janet's Blog, "Boxx Banter".

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 94 | President ... and Vice President!

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I wish I had a "first day of school" picture for the beginning of Hannah's junior year and Bethany's eighth-grade year. But at this point in her cancer treatments, Hannah really did not like having her photograph taken. Her hair was still thin from the radiation rays and she was a little self-conscious about that. I respected her wishes and did not take one. In fact, we have only a handful of photographs of her from that entire year of her battle, and I truly wish we had more.

In Hannah's small high school, class elections were held on the first day of the school year. She came home that day a little bit bummed ... not because she didn't win an election, but because she didn't win two elections! She was voted student council president ... but was just the vice president of her junior class. Other than that minor disappointment, she was very pleased with her schedule, her classes, and her teachers. We really couldn't predict the impact her treatments might have on her day-to-day schedule, but she was ready to tackle whatever lay ahead. School year 2008-2009 was underway!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

216 | In the Wrestle (Part One) with Janet Boxx

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Janet Boxx has been a friend of mine for almost nine years now, and she has been a consistent source of encouragement in my life. She has experienced the loss of three of her four children, and she will be my guest over the next three episodes as she shares their stories with us and discusses how God has walked with her as she’s wrestled through the unimaginable. In today’s episode, we primarily focus on the loss of her son Cole when he was stillborn 32 years ago. We will also get to know her daughters Bethany, Gracen, and Katie and learn about the genetic condition with which two of them have been diagnosed. I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 93 | Back To School Thoughts

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

In the fall of 2008, Hannah was ready to get the new school year underway. She would be a junior this year, and was anxious to get it behind her so she could start her senior year, graduate (as valedictorian, of course!) and go on to Ouachita Baptist University the next fall. Brain cancer was just a blip on the screen of her life at this point. She had so much to look forward to!

As we are in the middle of back-to-school time in Arkansas and around the country, I want to share a word of encouragement to those parents whose children are marking milestones ... starting kindergarten, beginning junior high, entering their senior year of high school, or maybe going off to college for the first time. Let me encourage you to rejoice and celebrate each of these milestones with your children. Please don't waste precious time being sad that your children are growing up ... That is what children are supposed to do! Those are things to celebrate, not to mourn. Allow me to gently and lovingly encourage you to be thankful that your children are healthy with bright futures ahead of them. Take time to savor every moment and celebrate every milestone!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

215 | Through the Valley (Part Two) with Jim and Patty Polk

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Daniel’s parents, Jim and Patty Polk. As a pastor, Jim brings a unique perspective to our discussion, and as we begin this episode, he is addressing the re-examination of his faith that resulted from Daniel’s sudden and unexpected death. From there, we move on to discuss biblical lament, how grief evolves over time, and advice for newly-bereaved parents. I believe you'll be encouraged by listening in.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 92 | Late Summer 2008

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0500

The beginning of August 2008 brought a flurry of back-to-school activity. Hannah was excited about beginning her junior year of high school, getting her cancer treatments behind her, and moving forward with life in general. Things seemed to be moving along just as they should be with her treatment protocol, and we were savoring every moment we had with our girls.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

214 | Through the Valley (Part One) with Jim and Patty Polk

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

It was just a normal Wednesday when Jim Polk and his 29-year-old son Daniel walked into a university concert venue together. What unfolded over the next few moments would change Daniel's parents' lives forever and lead them to completely re-examine their faith. As a pastor and pastor's wife, Jim and Patty Polk bring a unique perspective to our conversation, and I believe you'll be blessed by listening in.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 91 | Temporary Isolation

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah was amazingly patient with most aspects of her regularly-scheduled appointments at Children's Hospital, and never complained about the endless blood draws, blood pressure checks, and repetitive questions from her doctors and nurses. But she hated the antibiotic breathing treatment she had to endure every month, which required her to be zipped into a clear plastic tent and breathe in some sort of foul-smelling (and apparently foul-tasting) medication for thirty minutes. Today's bonus episode explores the isolation she must have felt sitting in that tent.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

213 | Past "What Ifs" and Future "What Ifs" with Cody and April Quillen

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I believe every bereaved parent asks the question, "What If ... ?". Cody and April Quillen bring a new perspective to that question in today's episode, which is a continuation of our conversation from last week.

If you missed last week’s episode, I encourage you to go back and listen to hear the story of their harrowing escape from Mexico when their daughter Catie experienced a health crisis during a family vacation.

Today, we pick up right where we left off last week as we discuss the twists and turns of their faith journey since that time … and I am so pleased to share it with you.

What If?

By Cody Quillen

What if my hurt was to help me grow

What if God’s will was for me to help those I know

What if my tears didn’t fall in vain

What if I helped others going through the same pain

What if my grief was just for a season

What if helping others gave my daughter’s death reason

What if God really could

Turn something bad into something good

What if on that day in which all my hope is placed

She hugs me, with a smile on her face

What if she says, “Dad, thank you for telling my story

And through your pain you brought our Lord glory”

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with the Quillens.

Click HERE to watch Cody and April share their testimony on YouTube.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 90 | Reasons to Celebrate

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah approached every MRI with remarkable composure. She never needed any kind of sedation ... just her headphones and a Carrie Underwood CD. The biggest stress for her was the insertion of the IV because she was such a "hard stick". I've wondered if maybe she didn't really understand the life-or-death nature of these scans, or if she was just that confident that everything was going to be fine. I believe it was the latter.

Thankfully, this particular MRI promised us at least two more months of life.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

212 | Bringing Catie Home with Cody and April Quillen

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Cody and April Quillen were enjoying a long-awaited family vacation in Mexico when their daughter Catie experienced a serious health crisis. In today's episode they share the harrowing tale of their experience with the Mexican healthcare system, culminating in them having to kidnap their daughter from the hospital to get her back to the United States.

In the first half of this two-part episode, they share about that experience and Catie’s ultimate homegoing. Be sure to return next week to hear how God has carried them through the past “What If’s” by focusing on the future “What If’s”. For now, settle in and listen to their riveting tale of rescue.

Click HERE to watch Cody and April share their testimony on YouTube.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 89 | Thoughts At a Funeral

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

As we celebrated the life of her great grandmother, I couldn't help but wonder what was going through Hannah's mind. Was she thinking of her own mortality as she considered the life and death of her great grandmother? She had heard what the doctor said about glioblastoma on the day of her diagnosis. Did she wonder if her own funeral might be next? Or was her faith so strong that she didn't harbor such thoughts? I honestly don't know. She was intensely private, and if she had any such thoughts, she kept them to herself.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

211 | "Sifted" (Part Two) with Karen Harmening

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Karen Harmening, blogger and author of the new book “Sifted: Diary of a Grieving Mother”. If you are walking the journey of child loss, you will find something in our chat that will encourage you today. We are picking up right where we left off last week as we discuss entries from this diary of a grieving mom … and I am so excited to share it with you.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of our conversation.

Click HERE to purchase a discounted copy of "Sifted" in hardback.

Click HERE to purchase a discounted copy of "Sifted" in paperback.

Click HERE to purchase "Sifted" on Amazon.

Click HERE to listen to my full interview with Scott and Karen Harmening, published in September of 2020.

Click HERE to read Karen's blog, "Listening to Him".

Click HERE to listen to the episode titled "Long and New Sorrow" from Karen's blog.

Click HERE to listen to the episode titled "Her Present Absence" from Karen's blog.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 88 | Family Vacation

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

During the summer of 2008, we had the opportunity to take a family vacation to Nashville, Tennessee. We stayed at the Opryland Hotel and enjoyed some good restaurants, toured the Country Music Hall of Fame, visited a botanical garden, shopped at a big mall where we fed manta rays, and saw the sights of Nashville. During the time we were there, we could almost forget that Hannah was sick because she seemed to be doing so well, but there were little reminders that were impossible to ignore. Then on Friday of that week, we received the sad news that Brad's grandmother had gone to Heaven, and we headed home to Arkansas the next day to prepare to celebrate her life.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

210 | "Sifted" (Part One) with Karen Harmening

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

When my friend Karen Harmening announced a few months ago that she was publishing a book born from her experience with the loss of her daughter Sarah, I was thrilled … not just for myself, but for all my bereaved parent friends who will benefit from the wisdom and insight the Lord has given her through her journey of grief. She will be my guest over the next two episodes to talk about her story and that book, titled “Sifted: Diary of a Grieving Mother”. I am so excited to share our conversation with you.

Click HERE to purchase a discounted copy of "Sifted" in hardback.

Click HERE to purchase a discounted copy of "Sifted" in paperback.

Click HERE to purchase "Sifted" on Amazon.

Click HERE to listen to my full interview with Scott and Karen Harmening, published in September of 2020.

Click HERE to read Karen's blog, "Listening to Him".

Click HERE to listen to the episode titled "Long and New Sorrow" from Karen's blog.

Click HERE to listen to the episode titled "Her Present Absence" from Karen's blog.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 87 | More Delays

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Continued platelet problems and lower blood counts overall led to more delays in Hannah's treatment. While Hannah enjoyed the break and a little bit of normalcy, we were concerned about the impact these delays could be having on keeping her cancer at bay. We tried to put these concerns, and her upcoming MRI, out of our minds and just enjoy our summer with the girls.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

209 | Living in the Mystery (Part Two) with Keith and Shawnda Freer

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Keith & Shawnda Freer, whose daughter Meghan died by suicide very unexpectedly in the spring of 2018. We pick up right where we left off last week as we extend our discussion to cover a wide variety of topics including the attributes and character of God, the marriage relationship after child loss, how Meghan’s death has changed them, and the GriefHope ministry that’s been born out of their experience. Lean in, and prepare to be encouraged!

Click HERE to learn more about GriefHope or to register for a retreat.

Keith and Shawnda, along with Brad and I, will be featured speakers at The next "Our Hearts Are Home" conference scheduled for October 11-12, 2024, in Indianapolis (and online). Click HERE for more information or to register. We would LOVE to see you there!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 86 | Platelet Problems

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

If I had known how important platelets were going to become in the life of our family, I probably would have paid closer attention in my junior high science class! Sixteen years ago today, Hannah's bloodwork showed a continued downward trend in her platelet levels, leading to the postponement of her next chemotherapy treatment. While Hannah was happy about that, we were anxious to get back on track with her therapy. Today's bonus espiode describes the mixed emotions of that time.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

208 | Living in the Mystery (Part One) with Keith and Shawnda Freer

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

My friends Keith and Shawnda Freer join me today for a conversation that will continue over the next two episodes. Their daughter Meghan very unexpectedly took her own life in 2018, and since that time, they’ve found themselves living in the mystery of God’s sovereignty.

They are the founders of GriefHope, a Christ-centered ministry that provides education and support for bereaved parents through weekend retreats, online support, and other resources. They are also featured speakers at Our Hearts Are Home conferences for bereaved parents, and I have put links to both those ministries in the show notes. They have a lot of wisdom to share, and I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to learn more about GriefHope or to register for a retreat.

The next Our Hearts Are Home conference is scheduled for October 11-12, 2024, in Indianapolis (and online). Click HERE for more information or to register.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 85 | Grandma and Grandpa Camp

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Another Grandma and Grandpa Camp was in the books and while Hannah clearly enjoyed the time with her grandparents and cousins, I could tell she was glad to be home. Monday was a clinic day, and her bloodwork revealed a fairly precipitous drop in her platelet levels, which was not entirely unexpected with the higher dose of chemo she had just completed. We were hopeful for a quick rebound in the days ahead.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 84 | Not Missing A Thing

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago today, Hannah took her ACT test. She had just returned from her "Grandma & Grandpa" Camp week, and was pretty worn out, but she was adamant about taking that test. She had just completed her sophomore year of high school, and planned to take it several times over the next couple of years, hopefully increasing her score each time so she could get lots of college scholarships. She didn't feel well that day, and she still struggled with the "falling out of her chair" sensation she'd had ever since completing her radiation treatments, but she did it! At that time, we couldn't know that Hannah's ACT score was not going to matter. We were operating under the assumption that she would complete her treatments over the next year and start college in the fall of 2010.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

207 | "In Grief" (Part Two) with Joni Robbins

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I am pleased to have Joni Robbins as my guest again today. She is the author of "In Grief: A Mother's Fight to Choose Joy", and the mom of two sons, Anson and Ethan. In last week's episode, Joni shared the story of her "gentle giant", Ethan, and how he lost his life due to an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound. Today, we talk about the difference between happiness and joy, finding purpose in our pain, and the mission of the Ethan Robbins Fund. Lean in and be encouraged!

Click HERE to purchase a copy of Joni's book, "In Grief - A Mother's Fight to Choose Joy".

Click HERE to visit the Ethan Robbins Fund website.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 83 | Thankful for "Normal" Life

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I never knew that life with cancer could be so "normal." On the days that Hannah was treatment-free, life seemed to go on as it always had. It was summertime, so we were moving at a little bit slower pace, but there were still school workshops to attend, dentist appointments to keep, cheerleading routines to practice, and basketball camps to sweat through. We celebrated Bethany's 13th birthday, and life was good. Hannah was feeling better after having completed her first round of oral chemo ... and best of all, her hair had pretty much stopped thinning as a result of the radiation treatments. Today's bonus episode describes that special time in our lives.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

206 | "In Grief" (Part One) with Joni Robbins

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I'm pleased to welcome Joni Robbins, author of “In Grief – A Mother’s Fight to Choose Joy” to the podcast today! Her son Ethan was a gentle giant and a friend to many, who dreamed of being in law enforcement someday. He died at the age of 17 in a tragic accident in their home in the spring of 2021.

In this first half of our two-part conversation, Joni shares who Ethan was, and talks about the incident that took his life and the impact it had on her marriage. Be sure and come back next week, because we’ll be extending our conversation to cover a wide variety of very practical topics related to child loss.

Click HERE to purchase a copy of Joni's book, "In Grief - A Mother's Fight to Choose Joy".

Click HERE to visit the Ethan Robbins Fund website.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 82 | Round One Complete

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Round One of Hannah's oral chemotherapy treatments was complete, and it felt good to get it behind us. It had been rough ... no doubt about that ... but we had a nice stretch of treatment-free days ahead of us now before Round Two would begin. We were encouraged. We could do this for eleven more months if that's what it took for Hannah to be healed.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 81 | My Hero

Fri, 31 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I remember the exact moment my teenage daughter became my hero. She had already been through brain surgery, 33 radiation treatments, and several MRIs. She had begun an oral chemotherapy protocol where she took a dose of a drug called Temodar for five days out of each month. One evening, as I watched her bravely swallow those five giant capsules, one by one, knowing they would make her terribly sick by morning, I found myself thinking, "She is my hero."

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

205 | An Eternal Perspective with Robert and Linda Hall

Wed, 29 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Robert and Linda Hall are my guests again today, as we continue our conversation about the loss of their only child John to addiction. They talk about how this experience has changed them, and how important it is to look at their grief through the lens of eternity, knowing that one day we will be free from suffering, pain, and sin, and that we will live with the Lord and our children forever in Heaven.

They share some of their favorite books, scriptures, and music, and talk about the While We're Waiting support group for bereaved parents they facilitate in Auburn, Alabama. Again, I believe you'll be encouraged by listening in!

Click HERE to see all of Nancy Guthrie's books on Amazon.

Click HERE to see a complete list of our While We're Waiting support groups for bereaved parents

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 80 | The Next Step

Tue, 28 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah had finally completed her radiation treatments, triumphantly capped off by an "all clear" MRI report, and our family settled into a much more normal lifestyle. We enjoyed a nice stretch of days where the girls were both attending school regularly, Brad and I were back at work, and we were able to resume our typical family activities. For the time being, at least, we could push our concerns about Hannah's health off the front burner. It felt like we had surmounted a huge hurdle by getting this first round of treatments behind us.

However, in our more lucid moments we knew we were really just at the beginning of this battle.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

204 | A Perfect Storm with Robert and Linda Hall

Wed, 22 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

My guests today are Robert and Linda Hall from Auburn, Alabama. The Halls struggled through eight years of infertility before they adopted their only son, John, at four months of age.

John was a remarkable child who loved the Lord and loved people and brought great joy to his parents. When he was a young teen, however, a perfect storm of the traumatic loss of a friend, a prescription for Oxycontin due to a sports injury, and exposure to others’ drug use, led to years of addiction.

Over the next two episodes, the Halls share John’s story, and discuss the struggles of parenting a child through addiction, the experience of losing their only child, grieving with grace as husband and wife, and the WWW support group they lead in Alabama.

Click HERE to see all of Nancy Guthrie's books on Amazon.

Click HERE to see a complete list of our While We're Waiting support groups for bereaved parents

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 79 | MRI Day

Sun, 19 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

MRI Day was finally here. Everything felt so surreal as we made our way into the bowels of Arkansas Children's Hospital to the MRI area. There's something very jarring about watching your daughter being strapped down to a narrow table and then slid into a claustrophobia-inducing tube ... especially knowing that the results of these scans could potentially forecast life or death for her.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 78 | Scanxiety

Sat, 18 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah's blood transfusion rejuvenated her to such a degree that it was almost possible to forget she was sick ... almost. There was a big reminder hanging over us, and that was her upcoming MRI. Every cancer patient and his or her family understands the term "scanxiety", and there was definitely some of that going on! This would be her first MRI since the day after her surgery, and the results would tell us a lot about how successful the surgery had actually been and whether or not her treatments so far had been effective. In spite of the inevitable scanxiety, I remember feeling fairly confident that everything was going to look good on these scans. I also realize, looking back, that the true gravity of what we were facing had not yet set in.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

203 | Arise, Daughter with Sylvia Blakely

Wed, 15 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

My guest today is a mother who shares a very different kind of child loss story than what is typically featured on this podcast. Sylvia Blakely has experienced the loss of two babies … one to abortion and one to miscarriage. In our conversation today, she shares the circumstances that led her to choose abortion and the years of shame and regret she endured before finally finding forgiveness and true freedom when she laid her burden at the foot of the cross. Her story is raw and riveting, and I believe it will touch your heart today.

Click HERE to visit the Arise Daughter/Arise Artists website.

You can reach Sylvia by email at arisedaughter@gmail.com. She would love to hear from you.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 77 | Life-Giving Blood

Mon, 13 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Up to this point, Hannah had handled everything that had come her way with remarkable aplomb ... the discovery of the tumor, brain surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, weekly blood draws ... but the news that she would have to have a blood transfusion really threw her for a loop. She didn't know what to expect, and was uncharacteristically nervous about the procedure.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 76 | Answers

Sun, 12 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Thankfully, clinic day brought some answers for Hannah's ongoing malaise. Today I share an email I sent sixteen years ago ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 75 | A Disappointing Evening

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

The day we'd been waiting for had finally arrived. Yes, it was Mother's Day, but more than that, it was Carrie Underwood Concert Day! Hannah had been a huge fan of Carrie's ever since she first walked onto the stage to audition on American Idol. She had her picked as the winner from the very beginning of that season ... and spent two hours on the phone after every episode voting for her to make sure she was the winner.

When I first heard that Carrie was coming to Little Rock for a concert, I hesitated to buy tickets right away because I wasn't sure where Hannah was going to be in her treatment protocol. Once I realized that the timing of the concert would coincide perfectly with the break between her initial round of treatments and the beginning of her second, I bought three tickets, and the planning for our girls' trip commenced.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 74 | One Less Flower

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

The debut of the Magnet Cove High School Choir's performance of Alice in Wonderland was scheduled for this evening ten years ago. Hannah had missed a lot of the practices due to our numerous trips to Little Rock for radiation treatments and doctor's appointments, but had a small role as a flower. She had always enjoyed theater and drama, performing in several plays when she was younger, and she had been looking forward to this performance.

But shortly after her last visit to the Hem/Onc clinic, when everything was looking so bright and sunny, she inexplicably began to struggle with fatigue again.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

202 | Hope Dawning (Part Two) with Susan Morrison

Wed, 08 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Susan Morrison is my guest again today in the second half of this two-part episode. She shares about the loss of her only sibling, her sister Stacy, when she was a teenager, and the impact that has had in her life. We also discuss the “before” and “after” of child loss and hear some of Susan’s favorite scriptures. Finally, she shares about the Hope Dawning ministry she founded for bereaved moms and her desire to inspire other bereaved parents to find ways they can serve those who are grieving in their own communities. Once again, I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in!

Click HERE to listen to the first half of our conversation.

Click HERE to learn all about the Hope Dawning ministry!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 73 | Bright and Sunny

Mon, 06 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

At this point in Hannah's treatment, we were really enjoying living a "normal" life. We were nearing the end of the school year, and were fully involved in all the busy-ness that brings. Between the two girls there were field trips, track meets, academic banquets, and cheerleading tryout meetings. Hannah was in the high school choir, and they were preparing for a performance of Alice in Wonderland. She didn't have a big role because she had missed so many practices ... but she was determined to be the best flower she could be! Most of all, she and Bethany were excited about the Carrie Underwood concert coming up in Little Rock that Sunday evening (which also happened to be Mother's Day) ... a special treat we had planned to celebrate the end of Hannah's radiation treatments. The road ahead at this point looked bright and sunny!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

201 | Hope Dawning (Part One) with Susan Morrison

Wed, 01 May 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Susan Morrison's daughter Miranda was a young wife and mother when she began experiencing some puzzling health issues and was ultimately diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer. In the first half of this two-part episode, Susan talks about walking that difficult journey with her daughter, the crisis of faith she endured knowing that she would inevitably lose Miranda, and the experience of grandparenting a young child who has lost his mother. She has a lot of wisdom to share, and I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Susan is the founder of a ministry called Hope Dawning, whose goal is to introduce and connect bereaved mothers in the local community to the area's faith-based healing resources through outreach and camaraderie-building events. Click HERE to learn more about what they have to offer!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 72 | Life Was Good

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

At this point in Hannah’s cancer journey, we entered an idyllic period. She had completed all her radiation treatments and had taken 33 out of 42 scheduled doses of the chemo drug Temodar, before her platelet levels dropped dangerously low and her oncologist said she had had enough. We knew that there were more treatments to come, but for now, we were able to focus on fully living life.

During that period, I sent very few email updates to those who were following Hannah’s journey … In fact, the next one was not until May 6th … so that will be our next bonus episode of this podcast. And going forward, these bonus episodes will no longer be daily, but I’ll be sharing them as significant events occurred during that battle sixteen years ago. Thank you for walking this journey along with me through these episodes, and I’ll be back in touch with you soon!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 71 | A Lighter Load

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

After two months of balancing the twin burdens of daily chemotherapy and radiation treatments, the news that they had come to an end sooner than expected (even if only temporarily) was reason to rejoice! It was such a relief to think of getting back to some sense of normalcy in our family. Even sixteen years later, I clearly remember the relief we felt, knowing that our load had been lightened.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

200 | Purpose with Brad Sullivan

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

If you’re a regular listener to the podcast, you are probably aware that my husband Brad had a near-fatal incident with an ATV a few months ago right before Christmas. To mark this special 200th episode of the While We’re Waiting podcast, he joins me to discuss what happened that day, share a little bit about his recovery process, and talk about how God has used it to sharpen his purpose going forward. I’m pleased to share our conversation with you today …

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 70 | Speed Bump

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0500

At this point in treatment, we could not have foresesen how much of a battle Hannah would have maintaining her platelet levels. Low platelets caused ongoing issues for her the entire year she was sick. But at this time, we had no reason to believe this was anything other than a little speed bump that would quickly be resolved.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 69 | The Juxtaposition of Sorrow and Joy

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Verses about joy abound in the Bible, and I'd like to share ten of my favorites with you in today's bonus episode. As you listen, I want to draw your attention to how many of these verses have the word "joy" juxtaposed with grief, tears, trials, and affliction. Maybe I've drawn to verses like these because of my own experience, and that's why these are my favorites. Or maybe it's because that's how God so often seems to work ... allowing us to experience heartbreaking sorrow, but always following it up with a restoration of joy.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 68 | Tilted

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

It was so important to Hannah to be able to take her end-of-course geometry exam on this date sixteen years ago! When she got home that day, she described feeling like her desk and her chair were tilted as she took the test, and she had to hold on tight to keep from sliding out. It wasn't a complaint on her part ... just an observation. It was hard for us to imagine how these radiation and chemo treatments were impacting her brain ... but her attitude remained positive and she never complained.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 67 | Platelet Issues

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

By April 21, 2008, Hannah had been undergoing radiation treatments five days a week and taking an oral chemotherapy drug daily since mid-March. The intensity of these ongoing treatments was finally beginning to take a toll, as you will hear from the email update I sent on this date sixteen years ago ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 66 | Well Done

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah was a very private person and gave us very few hints into what was going on in her mind during her cancer battle. These poems from her poetry anthology are such a treasure because they give us just a little bit of insight. And while my heart breaks over the declarations of survival in these poems, which she clearly ascribed to herself, I am comforted by the knowledge that she accomplished everything listed in the "Well Done" poem. God's purpose for her life has been fulfilled, and for that we are grateful.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 65 | Hannah's Poetry Anthology

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah's school assignment to compile a poetry anthology gave us a little window into what she was thinking during her battle with glioblastoma brain cancer. It's my privilege to share a few of those poems today.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 64 | That's What I Like About You

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

One of the things I dreaded most after Hannah went to Heaven was the chore of cleaning out her locker at school ... but one of the treasures we found inside was a special blessing.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

199 | Sibling Loss: The Forgotten Grievers with Bethany Sullivan

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode features a presentation on sibling loss from last fall's Our Hearts Are Home conference, led by my daughter Bethany Sullivan. My husband Brad and I also make an appearance in her presentation, and you’ll hear a very honest discussion between the three of us about things we did right and things we did wrong as we continue to parent her through her grief. It’s a live presentation in a church, so the audio is not quite as good as if it were recorded in a studio, but hopefully that won’t be too much of an issue for you. This is an episode you’ll want to listen to yourself first, then maybe share with your children to open up lines of communication about their own grief. I hope it is a blessing to you.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 63 | In the Darkness

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Do you remember being a child alone in your bedroom at night? I remember that I always had to sleep with my door open ... I felt so alone in the darkness if my door was shut. I think I found a lot of comfort in just hearing my parents' voices in the living room as I was drifting off to sleep. But what about those dark times in our lives when God seems absent ... when we just can't hear Him or feel His presence? Today's episode discusses this experience.

Click HERE to purchase Jim Daly's book - Stronger: Trading Brokenness for Unbreakable Strength

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 62 | More Favorite Quotes

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode includes two more of my favorite quotes from Randy Alcorn's book, "If God is Good." I highly recommend you get your own copy, available from Randy's website by clicking HERE or on Amazon.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 61 | Bloodwork

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Weekly bloodwork was an essential part of monitoring Hannah's response to the radiation and chemotherapy she was undergoing. With only eight more radiation treatments and fifteen more doses of chemotherapy to go, she was "sailing through" according to the our nurse. However, we could see that these things were beginning to take a toll.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 60 | Sharing Hannah

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah was a very private person, and always shunned the spotlight. At first, she didn't even want anyone to know that she had cancer, but understood that people needed to know so they could pray for her. She didn't want a CaringBridge site while she was battling cancer, but didn't mind me sending the emails which chronicled her journey. So it's interesting to me that her story has been shared to thousands of people through the While We're Waiting ministry. And I don't think she would mind a bit.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 59 | Ten Things I'd Like People to Remember about Hannah

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Early on after Hannah went to Heaven, I often heard other parents who had lost children talk about how much they worried about people forgetting about their children. And I remember thinking to myself that I would never be that way ... I certainly didn't want people to forget about Hannah, but for me personally, that was not a huge concern. I knew I wouldn't forget her, and at the time that's all that really mattered to me.

Well, now it's over fifteen years later, and I must admit that those kinds of thoughts do creep up on me from time to time. It's become a little more important to me that people remember not just that she lived, but the things that made her Hannah.

Thus, this episode listing Ten Things I'd Like People to Remember About Hannah ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 58 | Paradigm Shifts

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Several years ago, I spent a week sitting in school workshops. A large part of the presentation was on the "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" and one of the main topics had to do with paradigm shifts. As part of his introduction, the presenter posed a question to the group, "What is something that has happened in your life that led to a paradigm shift?" A few people shared stories of events in their lives that had led to significant change.

I didn't volunteer to share, but if I had, I would have said, "When my teenage daughter was diagnosed with cancer." And the whole paradigm shifted again when she went to Heaven a year later. Today's bonus episode lists some paradigm-shifting insights.

Click HERE to get a copy of Randy Alcorn's book, "If God Is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 57 | My Highest Good

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

One of my favorite books when I was young was titled "Joni: An Unforgettable Story". It chronicled the life of Joni Eareckson Tada after she broke her neck in a diving accident at the age of 18 and became a paraplegic. Joni is now 74 years old, and has battled breast cancer, and endures chronic "jaw-splitting" pain. Yet she continues to serve God faithfully from her wheelchair. In today's episode, I discuss another brief excerpt from another one of her books which has been an encouragement to me as I ponder the mysteries of God's sovereignty.

Click HERE to get a copy of Joni's 2010 book: "A Place of Healing: Wrestling with the Mysteries of Suffering, Pain, and God's Sovereignty". It's excellent!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

198 | The Loss of an Only Child (Part Two) with Michelle Ferris

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Michelle Ferris is my guest again today as we continue our conversation from last week. She is a single mom who tragically lost her only child, her son, Corban, on the Fourth of July in 2020. Michelle shares very openly and honestly about her experience as a single mom who lost her only child through her social media pages, and we talk about some of her postings and writings today. I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to connect with Michelle on Facebook.

Click HERE to register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 56 | A Challenge

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Today's episode includes a challenge from Dave Powlison to Joni Eareckson Tada ... "Joni, I have learned that for every one sentence you say to others about your cancer, say ten sentences about your God, your hope, what He is teaching you, and the small blessings of each day."

Click HERE to get a copy of Joni's book: "A Place of Healing: Wrestling with the Mysteries of Suffering, Pain, and God's Sovereignty". It's excellent!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 55 | God's Definition of "Good"

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Have you ever wondered if God has different definitions for words than we do? I've come to believe that His definition of "good" is very different from mine.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 54 | Fashion Accessories

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

As Hannah began to lose more and more hair, she had to get a little creative with her fashion accessories. Today's bonus episode describes that experience.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 53 | Eighteen Treatments Down

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Eighteen radiation treatments into her journey, Hannah's blood counts were holding strong, but she was beginning to experience some hair loss. Today's episode features an email I sent out sixteen years ago today.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 52 | Seaweed

Sat, 06 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

How did Hannah transform from a world-class worrier to a fearless warrior? The only answer is through her faith in God. Her belief that her storm was fully under His control removed all her fear.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 51 | The Gift of Manna

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Throughout Hannah's year-long cancer battle, God was faithful to give us manna for each day ... and only just enough for each day. Today's bonus episode describes that experience.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 50 | Trust God and Keep Driving

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode describes an adventure Hannah and I had together which is a pretty good microcosm of the childhood cancer experience. You start out with determination and high hopes, even in the midst of pounding rain, and eventually you reach a point in the middle where you desperately just want to head back to higher ground, where things are familiar and safe. But there's no turning around or backing up ... the only way through is forward. The edges aren't clearly marked, there are very few road signs to guide you on your way, and the heavy rain keeps getting in your eyes. You have no idea when or how this thing is going to end, but you just have to trust God, grab hold of the steering wheel, and keep driving.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

197 | The Loss of an Only Child (Part One) with Michelle Ferris

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Michelle Ferris joins me on the podcast today, and I'm excited for you to meet her. Michelle is a single mom who tragically lost her only child, her beautiful son Corban, on the Fourth of July in 2020. Today she shares Corban’s story with me, and we have a very open and honest discussion about her experiences as a single parent whose only child is in Heaven. I know I have learned a lot from her, and I believe you will too.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 49 | The Joys of Raising Girls

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Growing up with two brothers, I always I assumed I'd be a "boy mom". Ultrasounds were not nearly as detailed back in 1991 as they are today, so it was a surprise when the doctor exclaimed, "It's a girl!" ... and then another surprise 3 1/2 years later when Bethany was born. What a joy being a "girl mom" has turned out to be!

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 48 | A Sister Left Behind

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it has a profound impact on everyone in the family. As we found ourselves launched into the roller-coaster world of cancer, our 12-year-old daughter Bethany found herself left behind.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 47 | Better Than Okay

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Because of a decision she made when she was a little girl, Hannah was "better than okay" even as she battled glioblastoma brain cancer.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 46 | Settling Into a Routine

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

It's amazing how quickly you can settle into a routine, even in the midst of a battle for your child's life ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 45 | Hannah's Bucket List

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Hannah never composed a "bucket list" ... at least not that we were aware of. If she had, what would have been on it?

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 44 | Hannah's Facebook Profile

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

You can learn a lot about someone from studying their Facebook profile. Today's episode provides a little glimpse into Hannah's personality ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 43 | Ten Gifts From a Year With Cancer

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Cancer has taken so much from us ... and from so many others. It may seem strange to even think that it can give anything, other than pain and grief. But God, through the mystery of his grace, can take something even as ugly and destructive as cancer, and bring some good from it. So, in no particular order, here are ten "gifts" that our year with cancer brought to our family ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

196 | Myths and Cliches of Grief (Part Two) with Austin DeArmond

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

"They are in a better place."
"Grief shows a lack of faith."
"Once you're done grieving, things will go back to normal."

If you've heard any of these unhelpful statements since the loss of your child, you're not alone. In our western culture, I believe we have a tendency to minimize grief ... to gloss over it with glib platitudes. Austin DeArmond joins me again today for a lively discussion about these three statements, along with seven more. Listen in and be encouraged!

To listen to the first half of our discussion of myths and cliches of grief, click HERE.

Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.

Click HERE to register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 42 | Life Is Good?

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Life isn't always good, but God is.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 41 | The Importance of Prior Preparation

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I think, that as Christians, we sometimes assume that we should be immune from difficulties. Clearly that is not the case. So how do we keep our faith from falling apart like a cheap lawn chair when suffering or tragedy does come our way? Prior preparation can help.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 40 | One Month

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

This date sixteen years ago marked one month since Hannah's brain surgery. Today I share an email I wrote that day to the many people who were praying for us ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 39 | What Ifs

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

People often commented on our "strength" during Hannah's illness and death, but this is a misunderstanding of God's grace. What appeared to be strength was actually human weakness bolstered by a total dependence upon God.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 38 | Compartments

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

I like for everything in my life to be in its place. And up until February of 2008, my tackle box was in perfect order. All the little pieces were exactly where I wanted them to be ... in nice, neat compartments where they belonged. And then Hannah's cancer diagnosis came along, turned my tackle box upside down, and shook everything out ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 37 | The Miraculous

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

What if Hannah had been miraculously healed, like we so earnestly desired? Would her life have had the same far-reaching effects it has had? Would lives have been changed and people saved? Or would people have just gotten a warm and fuzzy feeling about God, which would soon be forgotten? Perhaps her healing would have been dismissed as a misdiagnosis, or a fluke of nature ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 36 | It's All About the "We"

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

When a child is battling cancer (or any life-threaning illlness), it's all about the "we". Today's bonus episode explains what I mean by that ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

195 | Myths & Cliches of Grief (Part One) with Austin DeArmond

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

"Time heals all wounds."
"God will never give you more than you can handle."
"The lessening of pain indicates a lessening of love."

Have you heard any of these unhelpful statments since you experienced the loss of a child? If so, you're not alone. In our western culture, we have a tendency to minimize grief, to gloss over it with glib platitudes. In today's episode, Austin DeArmond and I have a great conversation in which we discuss and debunk ten of these myths and cliches. Be sure and come back next week when we tackle ten more!

Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog ... There's a lot of great stuff there!

Click HERE to register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 35 | When It Doesn't Feel Like Springtime

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0500

The year that Hannah went to Heaven, our dogwood tree that had always bloomed so faithfully in the spring ... didn't. It was as if God allowed that tree to mourn with us that year. Thankfully, the blooms returned the following spring, reminding us of His faithfulness. Today's bonus episode describes those times when it doesn't feel like springtime ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 34 | A Tale of Two Applications

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

When our daughter Hannah was first admitted to Arkansas Children's Hospital sixteen years ago, I was called down to the financial office and encouraged to fill out an application for TEFRA, a supplemental insurance program for children with significant medical needs or disabilities. I really didn't think we would need it (because in my mind Hannah was going to be fine!), but I completed the paperwork anyway. A year later, when it was just about to expire, I filled it out again, and it was a very different experience ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 33 | Temodar

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago this evening, our daughter Hannah took the first dose of the chemotherapy drug that we hoped would cure her cancer. The day before, we had been regaled once again with a litany of possible side effects of this treatment, but we agreed those would be worth it if the drug was effective. Imagine my dismay when I pulled up to the pharmacy window only to be told that a five-day supply would be $33,000! Today's bonus episode describes our experience with the drug known as Temodar ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 32 | Starting Chemotherapy

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago on this date, we learned all about the plan for Hannah's chemotherapy treatments ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 31 | A Cancer Prayer

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

We HATE cancer and the devastation it has wreaked not only on our family, but on so many others. There are some things about it, though, that we want to always keep. Today's bonus episode shares some of those things ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 30 | Stronger

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago on this date, Hannah posted this on her Facebook page: "I am a much stronger person." And she was, because she was trusting God to carry her through her cancer journey. In today's bonus episode, I share how that was not her typical nature:

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 29 | Worrying About Tomorrow

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

During the year of Hannah's cancer battle, I made a conscious decision (only by the grace of God) to strive to live by Matthew 6:34: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Our time with Hannah was too precious to spend it worrying about what the next day held. I resolved to live each day we had with her to the fullest and to savor every moment.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

194 | The Everlasting Arms with John and Anne Downs

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with John and Anne Downs. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear John’s personal testimony of addiction, which ultimately led to the founding of Lighthouse Prison Ministry, followed by the story of their son, also named John, who went to Heaven six years ago this month.

Today, John and Anne share practical advice for newly-bereaved parents, including how they like to respond to the dreaded “How are you doing” question. We’ll also talk about the before and after of child loss, what they’ve learned about God’s character through their loss, and they'll share about the While We're Waiting support group they host in the Houston area.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with John and Anne Downs.

For more information about the While We're Waiting support group in The Woodlands, please email Anne at cattailzz@yahoo.com.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 28 | First Radiation Treatment

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago today, Hannah began her first round of radiation treatments. Those six weeks of daily trips to Little Rock remain some of my favorite memories from that year of cancer ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 27 | Back to School

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago on this date was a momentous day in Hannah's recovery from brain surgery, when she was able to return to school! Today's bonus episode describes that day ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 26 | A Series of Tremors

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0500

Our experience with parenting a child through cancer was like enduring a series of tremors following a devastating earthquake ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 25 | A Marathon

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Sixteen years ago on this date, Hannah was fitted with her radiation mask ... something she would wear five days a week for six weeks as beams of radiation were aimed into brain in an effort to prevent her tumor from returning.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 24 | Hannah "Our Joy"

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

On Valentine's Day in 1991, Brad and I went out for dinner at a Chinese restaurant. My fortune cookie that evening read, "A happy event will soon take place in your home." The rest, as they say, is history ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 23 | Rose Colored Glasses

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

When a child or young person goes to Heaven "before their time", there's a natural tendency to view that person through rose colored glasses. Hannah was a remarkable young woman, but she wasn't perfect.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 22 | Dreams for the Future

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Hannah had big dreams for her future, including living a "long, happy, healthy and content life", getting married, becoming a teacher, and retiring close to her grandkids someday. But God, in His sovereignty, had another plan for her.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

193 | "Safe" with John and Anne Downs

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

I’m excited today to introduce you to my friends, John and Ann Downs. The Downs are from the Houston area, where they host a While We’re Waiting support group in The Woodlands. They have a passion to minister to those in prison and founded Lighthouse Prison Ministry in 1996. John serves every day in a 10,000 inmate prison in downtown Houston. You’ll hear John’s own testimony of God’s redemption in today’s episode, as well as the story of their son, also named John, who served with honor in Iraq, only to come home and fight his own battles with addiction. John went to Heaven six years ago this month, and his parents rest in the knowledge that he is safe. Lean in and be encouraged.

Click HERE to visit the website of Lighthouse Prison Ministries, Inc.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 21 | A Walmart Epiphany

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0600

My first visit to Walmart after Hannah's brain cancer diagnosis opened my eyes to how many hurting people surround me every day, and most of the time, I'm not even aware of it. This episode describes that experience and ends with a poem that still encourages my heart today ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 20 | THIS IS A FOUR

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

"THIS IS A FOUR." Those words from Hannah's oncologist were jarring, and gave us just an inkling of what we may be facing with her glioblastoma diagnosis. As we committed her life into God's hands that day, we couldn't help but wonder what might lie ahead.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 19 | Cancer Diagnosis

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago today, we were given the news that our daughter Hannah's brain tumor was a glioblastoma. We clearly did not really "hear" what the oncologist was saying to us on that day. In fact, it took a while for the gravity of a glioblastoma diagnosis to sink in. Today's bonus episode tells the story of that day ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 18 | A Looming Appointment

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

The three days we had at home when Hannah was released from the hospital after her brain surgery were idyllic. We reveled in our time together, not paying any attention to what was going on in the outside world. But in the background, an appointment was looming ... one we knew could possibly change the trajectory of our lives from that day forward. Today's bonus episode discusses that feeling ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 17 | Home Sweet Home

Sat, 02 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago today, we came home from the hospital after Hannah's brain surgery to some fun surprises from our family. Such a welcome relief to have the opportunity to catch our breath and enjoy some time together at home. Today's bonus episode shares the story ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 16 | American Idol

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Our Hannah was an avid American Idol fan. I celebrate that aspect of her personality in today's bonus episode ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 15 | Leap Year

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years today was a Leap Year, just like this one. It just added to the surreal nature of the situation in which we found ourselves. In today's bonus episode, I share a little about that day ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

192 | Can't Change That (Part Two) with Julie Thomas

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

My friend Julie is well acquainted with grief, experiencing the loss of two of her children ... her son David to stillbirth and her teenage son Bryan to the choking game. She is passionate about serving mothers facing unplanned pregnancies, the importance of grieving in community, and produces an excellent blog titled “Can’t Change That.” Today's episode is a continuation of our conversation from last week, and I believe you'll be encouraged by listening in.

To hear the first half of our conversation, click HERE.

Links related to this episode:

Julie's Blog - Can't Change That
Hope Dawning
Real Options Pregnancy Crisis Center
ReBuild Grief Support in Richardson, Texas - Email: Rebuild@woodcreekchurch.com
REBUILD Grief Support in Chicago, Illinois
Time Magazine article about the Choking Game
G.A.S.P. - Games Adolescents Shouldn't Play

Books recommended in this episode:

Colors of Goodbye by September Vaudrey
A Grace Disguised by Jerry Sittser

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 14 | Emails

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago on this date, I sent the first of what would eventually be hundreds of emails chronicling our daughter Hannah's journey through glioblastoma brain cancer ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 13 | Recovery

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago today, Hannah was starting the recovery process after brain surgery ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 12 | Blissful Ignorance

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Looking back at this day from the perspective that sixteen years has brought, I'm so thankful for our blissful ignorance at that point. I'm grateful that we knew nothing of the childhood cancer world, that we could not see the rounds of radiation and chemotherapy ahead of us, and that for at least a little bit longer we thought that just maybe our lives were going to return to normal after all.

Most of all, I'm thankful we did not know that exactly one year from that date in February, Hannah would be leaving us for Heaven. I'm also grateful for the year God granted us with her ... even with all its heartaches and its ultimate heartbreak.

Because really, this story is not about me, or Brad, or Bethany, and it's not even about Hannah. It never was. It's about God and His Kingdom and the role we've been allowed to play in it. Hannah's prayer to be used by God in her storm has been answered many times over, and is still being answered even fifteen years later ... and I am grateful. But wow, do we miss her.

Today's bonus episode describes this date sixteen years ago:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 11 | Brain Surgery

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago on this date, our daughter Hannah underwent brain surgery to resect a tumor. At the time, we could not have known what was ahead of us. We were just grateful for a successful surgery. Today's bonus episode tells the story of that day ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 10 | Giving Consent

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Giving consent for your child to undergo brain surgery is an incredibly sobering task, and that's where we found ourselves sixteen years ago on this date ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 9 | A Prayer for a Storm

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Just a few months before her cancer diagnosis, Hannah had attended a youth gathering at our church called "Disciple Now", where she prayed a prayer that became very significant in her life. Today's bonus episode shares that story ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 8 | So Many Kindnesses

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Just like two months ago, when my husband Brad was in a very serious ATV accident, our family was flooded with so many kindnesses when Hannah was diagnosed with a brain tumor sixteen years ago. Today's bonus episode acknowledges those and concludes with the first of what would become a series of hundreds of emails.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

191 | Can't Change That (Part One) with Julie Thomas

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Julie Thomas is my guest on the podcast today. Julie is married to Marcus and has a degree in secondary education from Baylor University. She has served for over 25 years at Real Options, a pregnancy clinic in Allen, Texas. Her passion is equipping volunteers to talk with women dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. She also produces an outstanding blog, titled “Can’t Change That”, which explores issues that are common to bereaved parents.

In the year 2000, Julie’s son David Michael was stillborn, giving her a unique understanding of the suffering and agony post-abortive moms often feel after the death of their babies.

Then in 2017, Julie experienced another devastating loss when her 16-year-old son Bryan died participating in an activity known as the “Choking Game”. According to a 2018 article in Time Magazine, 82 American children between the ages of 6 and 19 died after playing the Choking Game between the mid-90s and the mid-2000s, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of them were boys between the ages of 11 and 16, according to a 2008 CDC report citing news stories and families’ own accounts.

Julie joins me to share the stories of David and Bryan and I am pleased to give you the opportunity to meet her today!

Links related to this episode:

Julie's Blog - Can't Change That
Hope Dawning
Real Options Pregnancy Crisis Center
ReBuild Grief Support in Richardson, Texas - Email: Rebuild@woodcreekchurch.com
REBUILD Grief Support in Chicago, Illinois
Time Magazine article about the Choking Game
G.A.S.P. - Games Adolescents Shouldn't Play

Books recommended in this episode:

Colors of Goodbye by September Vaudrey
A Grace Disguised by Jerry Sittser

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 7 | Admitted

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago today, our daughter Hannah was admitted to Arkansas Children's Hospital to begin preparing for her upcoming brain surgery. Today's episode describes the events of that day ...

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 6 | MRI

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Sixteen years ago today was the MRI that changed the trajectory of our lives. We are thankful to God for the grace that carried us through that day and every day since.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 5 | Doctor Visits and Referrals

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Both of our girls had doctor appointments on this date sixteen years ago, so Brad and I decided we needed to divide and conquer. I brought Bethany to her appointment, and Brad took Hannah. Hannah's doctor did not appear to be overly concerned, but referred us to an ophthalmologist that very afternoon, who examined at her and said, "If it was my daughter, I'd want her to have an MRI." An MRI was scheduled for the next morning.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 4 | Seeing Double

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

When Hannah called me from school and said she was having double vision, I knew something wasn't right. I wanted to pick her up from school and take her directly to the doctor, but she convinced me she was fine and would finish out the day. When she got home, and I saw how dilated her pupils were, I scheduled an appointment at our doctor's office for the next morning.

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 3 | Migraines?

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

As Hannah's severe headaches continued, I found myself in the pharmacy section of Walmart, searching for something that would give her some relief. Maybe she was experiencing migraines. I bought some Excedrin Migraine, then hurried off to my next responsibility, hoping a name brand medication would be more effective than a store brand.

Thank you for joining me for the third bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family’s experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 2 | Missing School

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Hannah was a young lady who took school seriously, and even had a goal to be the valedictorian of her graduating class. So when she asked to stay home from school for the second day in a row, I knew she really wasn't feeling well.

Thank you for joining me for the second bonus episode in this year-long series in which I’m sharing our family’s experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah’s life on earth, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point people to hope in Jesus along the way. I’m grateful that you’ve joined me.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

Bonus 1 | Sixteen Years

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Welcome to the first of what is planned to be a year-long series of bonus episodes on the While We’re Waiting podcast.

This month marks sixteen years since our 17-year-old daughter Hannah was diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer, which she battled for a little over a year before she went to Heaven on February 26, 2009. During that year, I documented her journey through a series of almost daily emails, at first just to family and friends … and eventually to tens of thousands of people, as these email updates were shared around the world.

Over the upcoming year I’d like to share those emails, along with some commentary, with you. My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and if you’d like to follow along, I’d love for you to join me.

Most of these episodes will be very short … five minutes or less … and they will be very simple … just the emails, along with some commentary. The first few episodes will actually be setting the context … sharing how we discovered the cancer … the first email wasn’t actually sent until February 20, 2008.

Many people who followed Hannah’s cancer journey sixteen years ago have shared with us that they were inspired by it, that they drew closer to God because of it, and some even came to know the Lord as their Savior as a result of it.

Ultimately, my desire is to humbly and faithfully point people to Jesus as I share these glimpses into our journey through a year of cancer and the loss of our precious daughter. Thank you for joining me.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

190 | Victorious Heart (Part Two) with Kim Peacock

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Welcome to episode #190, which is a continuation of my conversation with Kim Peacock. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of her 17-year-old daughter Nicole, who was killed in a horrific ATV accident in 1998. Kim is the author of the book “Victorious Heart: Finding Hope and Healing After a Devastating Loss” which details her grief journey in the aftermath of that event. She has a lot of wisdom to share, and I’m so pleased to share the rest of our conversation with you today …

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with Kim.

Click HERE to visit Kim's website and blog, "Wild Victorious Heart".

Click HERE for an Amazon link to Kim's book "Victorious Heart: Finding Hope and Healing After a Devastating Loss", available in paperback, on Kindle, and on Audible.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

189 | Victorious Heart (Part One) with Kim Peacock

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0600

I’m excited today to introduce you to my new friend, Kim Peacock. Kim’s 17-year-old daughter Nicole went to Heaven right after Christmas in 1998, in a horrific ATV accident while on a family vacation. Kim is the author of the book “Victorious Heart: Finding Hope and Healing After a Devastating Loss” which details her grief journey in the aftermath of that event. She has a lot of wisdom to share, and I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to visit Kim's website and blog, "Wild Victorious Heart".

Click HERE for an Amazon link to Kim's book "Victorious Heart: Finding Hope and Healing After a Devastating Loss", available in paperback, on Kindle, and on Audible.

** EXCITING PODCAST NEWS ** - This month marks sixteen years since our 17-year-old daughter Hannah was diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer, which she battled for almost exactly one year before she went to Heaven on February 26, 2009. During that year, I documented her journey through a series of almost daily emails, at first just to our family and friends … and then to thousands of people, as our updates were shared around the world. Starting on Valentine’s Day, I’m going to begin a year-long series of bonus episodes, in which I share those emails, along with some commentary, with you. My desire is to process through the events of that year with the perspective that 16 years has brought … for myself, really. But if you’d like to follow along, I’d love for you to join me. So next Wednesday, watch for a bonus episode in addition to my typical weekly episode, followed by a series of bonus episodes over the next year.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

188 | Mark Vroegop - Our Hearts Are Home Conference

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Back in October, my husband Brad and I had the opportunity to meet Mark Vroegop at the Our Hearts are Home conference in Indianapolis. Mark is the lead pastor of College Park Church in Indianapolis. He and his wife, Sarah, are the parents of four living children, and a daughter, Sylvia, who was stillborn in 2004. He is the author of a book titled “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament”, in which he explores how we can bring our sorrow to God by vocalizing our pain through honest spiritual wrestling. It was a blessing to have the opportunity to meet him at the OHAH conference, and I am sharing his presentation from that event with you today. I hope this blesses you as much as it blessed me!

Click HERE to get a copy of Mark's book, Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy.

Click HERE to watch this presentation from the Our Hearts Are Home conference on YouTube.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

187 | The Impact of a Dream with Don and Deondra Chamberlain

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Today’s episode features the second half of my conversation with Don and Deondra Chamberlain, whose son Dustin was murdered during a home invasion in December 2011. We extend our conversation to include topics including “the things people say”, dealing with the holidays, the “before and after” of child loss, the support group they lead for bereaved parents, and how Dustin’s life continues to have an impact the lives of people in Guatemala. I believe you’ll be encouraged by listening in!

Click HERE to link to the Dustin's Dream website and learn more about the amazing work going on in Guatemala.

Click HERE to follow the Dustin's Dream Facebook page.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

186 | "Home" with Don and Deondra Chamberlain

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Dustin Chamberlain was a remarkable young man, a pre-med student at Baylor University, who was home on Christmas break when he was murdered during a home invasion in 2011. His parents, Don and Deondra, join me today to talk about what happened that day, and how God has sustained their family on this difficult journey. Listen in and be encouraged!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

185 | Designed to Heal with Joe and Becky Canal

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Joe and Becky Canal have experienced the loss of two of their five sons … Their oldest son, Josh, to complications related to a heart defect, and their youngest son, Jesse, to a motor vehicle accident. Joe is the senior pastor of Tyler Christian Fellowship in Tyler, Texas, and together, they host a WWW support group in Tyler. Their faith has been tested by their losses, but they have found hope in the faithfulness of God.

This episode is the second half of our conversation together. To listen to the first half, click HERE.

For more information about the WWW support group in Tyler, Texas, please email Joe at brojocan@gmail.com or Becky at bcanal@hotmail.com.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

184 | A Faith That Has Been Tested with Joe and Becky Canal

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0600

My friends Joe and Becky Canal have experienced the loss of two of their five sons, and they share their story in today's episode with honesty and grace. Listen in and be encouraged, and be sure to come back next week for the second half of our discussion.

This conversation was recorded prior to my husband's accident last month. For those that don’t know, Brad was severely injured on December 22nd after striking a deer while riding on an ATV on a duck hunting trip, and we have been in the ICU ever since. Thankfully, we are seeing daily improvements, and we are so grateful for everyone’s prayers and kind words and gestures over the last ten days. It’s been quite a journey, and we are incredibly blessed to still have him with us. We are hopeful that we’ll be transferring into a acute rehab facility this week, and then home from there … maybe even by the time you’re listening to this episode.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

183 | While We're Waiting - A Year in Review with Brad Sullivan

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

My husband and partner in ministry, Brad Sullivan, joins me on the podcast today to discuss some of the highlights of the While We're Waiting ministry in 2023, including a couple of testimonials from parents who attended one of our retreats this past year.

PLEASE NOTE - This episode was recorded prior to Brad's accident on December 22, 2023. We are so grateful to everyone who has been carrying us before the Great Physician in your prayers over the past several days, and we are hopeful that Brad will be returning to serve in WWW in his full capacity before too long!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

182 | Trusting Him in All Things with Barbara Scorza

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Barbara Scorza is my guest again today, as we extend our conversation to address issues that all bereaved parents can relate to, including facing the holidays without our precious children. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of her family’s escape from Hurricane Katrina and the homegoing of her son Kevin in 2011. Barbara is a gifted storyteller and has a great deal of God-given wisdom to share ... I know you'll be blessed by listening in!

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with Barbara.

Click HERE to read Barbara's blog, Scorza Sanctuary.

Click HERE to listen to Barbara's daily podcast, My Morning Thought.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

181 | A Breaking Like No Other with Barbara Scorza

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Barbara Scorza is my guest on this week's episode, and I'm so excited to introduce you to her! She is a captivating storyteller, and she has a lot to share ... being a teenage mother, going through a difficult divorce, losing everything in Hurricane Katrina, and experiencing the loss of her son Kevin. In spite of all she's endured, she tells her story with grace, wisdom, and joy, and I believe you'll be encouraged as you listen in! Be sure to come back next week as we expand our discussion to include some practical tips for those walking the child-loss journey.

Click HERE to read Barbara's blog, Scorza Sanctuary.

Click HERE to listen to Barbara's daily podcast, My Morning Thought.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

180 | The Grieving Husband and the Grieving Wife

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Have you heard the oft-repeated statistic that 80 to 90% of marriages fail after the loss of a child? Did you know that that is actually a myth?

Today's episode features a webinar that my husband Brad and I recently presented along with our friends, Keith & Shawnda Freer, who are the founders of the GriefHope ministry. In this webinar, we discussed the impact of grief on marriage, including how men and women express grief differently, how we can respect those differences and support our spouses, and the importance of applying biblical principles of marriage when we’re grieving. We also debunk the myth about the high percentage of marriage failure following child loss and identify where that idea came from.

Next week, we’ll be back to our usual interview format, and I hope you’ll come back then to hear a powerful story of God’s provision amid unimaginable loss from my friend Barbara Scorza. For now, I hope you’ll find some help and hope in our discussion about marriage after child loss.

Click HERE to watch the webinar on YouTube.

Click HERE to learn more about the GriefHope ministry.

This webinar was sponsored by the Our Hearts Are Home ministry. Click HERE to learn more about this ministry.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

179 | Child Loss 101 - The Our Hearts Are Home Conference

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode features a recording of a panel discussion at the recent Our Hearts Are Home conference for bereaved parents in Indianapolis, Indiana. The panel includes Gary & Laura House, Keith & Shawnda Freer, Molly Huffman, Greg & Susan Albers, Carol Brown, and my husband Brad & me. We explore the difficult truths and realities of child loss including the following:

The realities of child loss
The individual nature of the grief journey
Moving forward while continuing to grieve
How relationships can change after child loss
Dealing with guilt and regrets
The difficulty of going back to church
How to help a grieving friend
Resources to help navigate grief

This panel of bereaved parents offers helpful insights and shares the hope we have found in Christ, while walking through the painful journey of losing a child. Our discussion can also be viewed on YouTube by clicking HERE.

Click HERE to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home ministry and get more information about their 2024 conferences in Lynchburg, Virginia, and Indianapolis, Indiana.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

178 | Her Present Absence

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

As I’m recording this episode, it’s the day before Thanksgiving, and the unofficial kickoff to the full-blown Christmas season hustle-bustle. But before we get into all that, I wanted to take a moment just to slow down, take a deep breath, and acknowledge the sorrow that underlies this time of year for most bereaved parents.

My friend Karen Harmening is a bereaved mom and gifted writer, and I want to share with you a post she recently published on her blog. She beautifully expresses how I feel, still, on this 15th Thanksgiving eve since my daughter Hannah went to Heaven. Karen very transparently describes the sorrow we all experience and includes Scripture throughout her post that points us back to Hope. I believe you’ll find her words both affirming and encouraging.

Click HERE to read and subscribe to Karen's blog, "Listening to Him".

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

177 | Heaven Working Backwards with Austin and Valerie DeArmond

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Will we know our children when we get to Heaven? Is my child an angel now that he or she has died? Does my child send me signs? Is it possible to "move forward" in our lives without fearing that we're leaving our children behind? Is the best really yet to come?

Austin and Valerie DeArmond enjoyed 366 days of blessing with their son Gabriel until the Lord took him to Heaven due to a sudden and unexpected illness. Austin is a gifted and articulate theologian, and Valerie is his equal in wisdom and compassion. In today's continuation of our conversation from last week, we discuss these questions and more. Lean in and listen ... and I believe you'll find hope and encouragement in our discussion today.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with the DeArmonds.

Austin's blog is full of wonderful articles, including some that we discuss in today's episode. Click HERE to check it out!

If you enjoy theologically-rich quotes related to grief and suffering, you'll love following Austin on Twitter/X. Click HERE to link to his profile.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

176 | Suffering Is Not Meaningless with Austin and Valerie DeArmond

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Austin and Valerie DeArmond are the parents of a daughter, Addie, and a son, Gabriel, a joy-filled little boy who was known for his enthusiastic and sloppy open-mouth kisses. Gabe was the life of every party, and he relished that role. Austin and Valerie enjoyed 366 days of blessing with Gabriel until the Lord took him Home following a sudden and unexpected illness. We have a wide-ranging discussion today, discussing sensitive issues such as infertility, adoption, medical mistakes, the vital importance of good theology in grief, marriage after child loss, and parenting a young child who’s grieving. The DeArmonds are less than a year into their loss, but God has gifted them with a great deal of wisdom … I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Austin's blog is full of wonderful articles. Click HERE to check it out!

If you enjoy theologically-rich quotes related to grief and suffering, you'll love following Austin on Twitter/X. Click HERE to link to his profile.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

175 | The Rainbow Covenant with Neal and Rhonda Harrington

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When Neal and Rhonda Harrington's 19-year-old son Adam was killed by a single bolt of lightning in the summer of 2006, their lives were profoundly altered. As we continue our conversation today, we talk about how grief has impacted their marriage and their relationships with others, and how it has changed each of them individually. We discuss some practical topics like dealing with the sometimes clumsy things people say, and how they handle special days like birthdays and holidays. Rainbows have become especially significant in their lives, and we chat about why that is, and close with a discussion of music that's been meaningful to them since Adam's homegoing.

This is the second half of a two-part episode ... To hear the first half of our conversation, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

174 | "Living Forward" After Child Loss with Neal and Rhonda Harrington

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

My friends Neal and Rhonda Harrington join me on the podcast today to share the story of their 19-year-old son Adam, who was killed by a lightning strike in August of 2006. Adam was jogging at the high school track with his granddaddy when the incident happened, and in that split second of time, the Harringtons’ lives were forever changed.

In today’s episode, they share who Adam was, the story of what happened and its immediate aftermath, the sovereignty of God in a situation like this, and some of what they’ve learned over the past 17 years since Adam’s homegoing.

They have a lot of wisdom to share about how we can "live forward" after child loss, and I believe you’ll be encouraged by our conversation. Then be sure and come back next week as we extend our discussion to include some very practical insight into living life as a bereaved parent.

You can follow Rhonda's blog by clicking HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

173 | Sunlight on the Ocean with Rhyl Venning (Bonus Episode)

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Today's special bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast features a conversation with bereaved mom and author of the new book "Sunlight on the Ocean", Rhyl Venning. A return guest to the podcast, Rhyl shares today about her journey to becoming an author, her objective in writing the book, and how writing Kari-Lee's story impacted her grief. She also shares some of the books who have been helpful to her in her own grief journey. I believe you'll be blessed by listening in!

Click HERE to listen to my previous episode with Rhyl, in which she shares Kari-Lee's complete story.

Click HERE to order Sunlight on the Ocean from Amazon.
Click HERE to order Sunlight on the Ocean from Barnes & Noble.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

172 | A Year of Jubilee (Part Two) with Cameron and Lyssah Fry

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to episode #172, which is a continuation of my conversation with Cameron and Lyssah Fry. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of their tiny and feisty daughter, Jubilee … born at 25 weeks, 6 days, and weighing just 18 ounces … who repeatedly astounded medical staff with her tenacity and fighting spirit. Her testimony, throughout her 393 days in the NICU, was “Watch What God Will Do”, and her earthly life, though short by some standards, continues to have a profound impact. Today, we discuss the marriage relationship after loss, the “before and after” of child loss, the beauty of the gospel, and following Jesus through pain and sorrow. We pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

Link to Part One of my conversation with the Frys: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1230350/13744468

Connect with Cameron and Lyssah:

Website: https://hisgirlfryday.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hisgirlfryday/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HisGirlFryday
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hisgirlfryday/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

171 | A Year of Jubilee (Part One) with Cameron and Lyssah Fry

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Jubilee Nileen Fry was born at 25 weeks, 6 days gestation, weighing in at just 18 ounces, and was not expected to live through her first night. However, she repeatedly astounded her medical team with her tenacity and fighting spirit. Her testimony throughout her 393 days in the NICU was “Watch What God Will Do”, and her earthly life, though short by some standards, continues to have a profound impact on those around her.

Jubilee's mom and dad, Cameron and Lyssah, join me on the podcast today to share her story. We also discuss the emotional toll of pregnancy after loss (you’ll even hear baby Aili in the background as we chat), and the Frys will share a little bit about their experience at a While We’re Waiting Weekend this past summer. Lean in and be encouraged today!

Connect with Cameron and Lyssah:

Website: https://hisgirlfryday.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hisgirlfryday/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HisGirlFryday
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hisgirlfryday/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

170 | Dance in the Rain with Joey and Donna Sorters

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When you're living with a child who's battling cancer, you learn to make the most out of every day. And that's what Joey and Donna Sorters did as they walked their son Jarren through his cancer journey ... They made a conscious decision to dance in the rain.

If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to listen to hear the story of their son Jarren’s courageous battle against cancer and what the Lord has taught them as they continue to walk out their journey. Click HERE to listen to the first half of our conversation.

Today, we cover a wide variety of issues faced by bereaved parents, including a discussion of the impact of child loss on marriage and on surviving siblings. We pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

Click HERE for more information or to register for the upcoming Our Hearts Are Home Conference for Bereaved Parents scheduled for October 13-14, 2023, in Indianapolis, Indiana. A virtual option is available!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

169 | The World Our Hearts Were Made For with Joey and Donna Sorters

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

I’m pleased today to introduce you to my friends Joey and Donna Sorters. Our paths crossed several years ago when we worked in the same school district together … but at the time, we never dreamed we would walk very similar journeys with our children seven years apart. In the first half of this two-part episode, Joey and Donna share the story of their remarkable son Jarren, who went to Heaven at the age of 15 after a ferocious battle with cancer. His motto was “If you get knocked down 7 times, you get up 8”, and he had plenty of opportunity to live that out throughout his journey. That determined spirit and competitive nature served him well, as he faced setback after setback with a positive attitude. Listen in and be inspired …

Click HERE to connect with the Play4Jarren Foundation.

Click HERE for more information or to register for the upcoming Our Hearts Are Home Conference for Bereaved Parents.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

168 | Be Still and Know (Part Two) with Jackie Carson

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to episode #168, which is a continuation of my conversation with my friend Jackie Carson. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of her son Jonathan’s battle with drugs and alcohol, including how God redeemed his story to help others caught in the snare of addiction. Today, we discuss a wide variety of issues faced by bereaved parents. At only 8 months into her own journey, Jackie has a passion for ministering to other grieving parents, and she shares some very practical things that have been helpful for her. We’ll pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to listen to the first half of my conversation with Jackie.

Click HERE to join Jackie's public Facebook Group, "Be Still and Know".

Click HERE to learn more or register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference in Indianapolis the weekend of October 13-14, 2023.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

167 | Be Still and Know (Part One) with Jackie Carson

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

I'm pleased today to introduce you to my new friend, Jackie Carson, who I met when she attended one of our While We're Waiting Weekends recently. In the first half of this two-part episode, Jackie shares the story of her smart and funny son Jonathan, who went to Heaven just before Christmas in 2022. Jonathan was introduced to marijuana at the age of 12, and it was a gateway drug for him, leading to years of alcohol and drug abuse, jail time, and declining health. After an 18-month stint in prison, he checked himself into a faith-based rehab, and God used that to turn things around and bring Jonathan to Himself. Ultimately, the Lord took him home, and that’s when Jackie’s journey as a bereaved mom began. Lean in and listen to hear an amazing story of both redemption and loss.

Click HERE to join Jackie's public Facebook Group, "Be Still and Know".

Click HERE to learn more or register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference in Indianapolis the weekend of October 13-14, 2023.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

166 | It Is Well (Part Two) with Donna Eller

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Donna Eller joins me on the podcast again this week. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of her daughter, Julie … some of it in Julie’s own words from the journals she kept during her fierce battle with cancer. Today we extend our conversation to cover a wide range of very practical issues faced by bereaved parents, including giving grace to a spouse who may be grieving very differently than we are … and we’ll also discuss Donna’s more recent experience with grief in the loss of her husband Tim. We pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with Donna.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

165 | It Is Well (Part One) with Donna Eller

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

My friend Donna Eller is my guest on the podcast today. In the first half of this two-part episode, she shares the story of her independent, funny, and faith-filled daughter Julie, who went to Heaven following a fierce battle with cancer in 2015. But there’s more to her story, as Donna has also experienced the loss of her 8-day-old grandbaby (Julie’s son Noah) as well as her husband Tim more recently. Though I’d heard Donna’s story when she attended our While We're Waiting Weekend in 2018, it wasn’t until this conversation that I realized the profound impact baby Noah had on their entire family, and how God used his life to prepare them for what was to come. I believe you’ll be inspired by Julie’s faith journey as read from her own journals by her mom. Lean in today and be encouraged.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

164 | While We're Qavah-ing

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When we first formed the While We're Waiting ministry back in 2011, we were advised by a ministry consultant to change the name. "While We're Waiting", he said, "It sounds like you're sitting kicked back in a recliner just waiting to go to Heaven." Of course that's not at all the concept we had in mind when we chose the name, but I really didn't have a word to clearly and concisely explain the correct concept until my conversation with Dr. Lee Warren a few weeks ago. He introduced me to the Hebrew word "Qavah", which perfectly expresses the meaning behind the name of our ministry. Listen in to hear the story of "While We're Waiting".

Click HERE and HERE to listen to the podcast episodes I've recorded with my daughter Bethany about sibling grief.

Click HERE for more information or to register for the Our Hearts Are Home conference scheduled for October 13-14, 2023, in Indianapolis.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

163 | The Best Is Yet To Come! with Terry and Joy Young (A Reprise)

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

On July 31, I received a text from my friend Terry Young, letting me know that his wife Joy had laid down for a nap that day & woke up in Heaven. At first I couldn’t believe it - my dear friend Joy was much too full of life to be gone - but she was. Joy was known for exclaiming at every opportunity, “The best is yet to come!" & for her the best had come.

When Terry found Joy that afternoon, she was lying on their bed with her Bible open to Psalm 46 and was in the middle of writing a note of encouragement to some fellow bereaved parents. She lived to serve others, and to remind everyone she knew about the hope we have in Jesus, and she did that right up until the moment she stepped into Heaven. She had no greater desire than for others to know Jesus personally and by re-releasing this episode, I’d like to give her one more opportunity to make that appeal. Joy didn’t know when she laid down that day that God was going to take her home, but she was ready to go. As you listen today, please make sure you’re ready too. Joy herself is going to tell you how you can have that assurance & know that the best is yet to come!

Plan of salvation:

Realize you are a sinner. No matter how good a life we try to live, we still fall miserably short of being a 'good person.' That's because we're all sinners. We fall short of God's desire for us to be holy. The Bible says, 'No one is righteous - not even one' (Rom. 3:10).

Recognize that Jesus died on the cross for you. 'But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners' (Rom. 5:8 ). This is the good news, that God loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die in our place when we least deserved it.

Repent of your sin. The Bible tells us to 'repent therefore and be converted' (Acts 3:19). The word 'repent' means 'to change our direction in life.' Instead of running away from God, run toward him.

Receive Jesus in your life. Being a Christian is not just believing some creed or going to church on Sunday. Being a Christian is allowing Christ himself to take residence in your life and heart. Jesus said, 'Behold, I stand at the door [of your life] and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in' (Rev. 3:20).

If you haven't invited Jesus into your life, pray a sincere prayer like this one: 'Jesus, I know I am a sinner. I believe you died for my sins. I

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

162 | Taking the Microphone with Lisa Thacker

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Lisa Thacker joins me once again on the podcast today. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back and listen to hear the story of her son Dalton, who took his own life at the age of 16 with absolutely no warning signs or indications of what he was about to do. Today we extend our conversation to cover a wide range of very practical issues faced by bereaved parents, particularly those who have experienced the loss of a child to suicide, and discuss how she now finds herself taking up Dalton's microphone to share the hope of Jesus with others.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my interview with Lisa

Click HERE to access Lisa's blog - "Surviving My Past Because Of My Future"

Click HERE to visit the Dalton's Difference Facebook page.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

161 | Walking A Tightrope with Lisa Thacker

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Dalton Thacker was a vibrant young man with an infectious smile and a passion for sports and history. He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh, and in 2020, he chose "grit" as his word for the year. He was a goal setter with a desire to score 1,000 points in basketball over his high school career, and to make it to state in track and field. On May 14, 2020, Dalton took his own life with absolutely no warning signs or indication of what he was about to do, leaving his family reeling in the aftermath. His mom, Lisa, joins me today to talk about their experience, likening it to walking on a tightrope. Over time, she came to accept that when there are no answers, Jesus is the answer. Listen in and be encouraged.

Click HERE to access Lisa's blog - "Surviving My Past Because Of My Future"

Click HERE to visit the Dalton's Difference Facebook page.

Lisa refers to an interview I did with Kim Erickson. Click HERE to listen to Part One of that interview, and HERE to listen to Part Two.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

160 | Hope Is the First Dose with W. Lee Warren, M.D.

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

"Trauma lies to you, and pain lies to you, and it makes you think: This is always how I'm going to feel, and this is always how it's going to be. And the truth is, if you're still alive, God has a plan for your life, and your life has purpose and meaning." Encouraging words from Dr. W. Lee Warren, neurosurgeon and author of the new book "Hope Is the First Dose: A Treatment Plan for Recovering from Trauma, Tragedy, and Other Massive Things".

When Dr. Warren's 19-year-old son Mitchell died of multiple stab wounds to his neck in August of 2013, he found himself "infinitely sad, hopeless, tormented, lost, and faithless for a while". In our conversation today, Dr. Warren takes us down that dark mental staircase to the furnace of suffering, then leads us back up out of the pit. He shares the path he took to find once again the abundant life promised by Jesus in John 10:10. It involves a treatment plan that requires what he refers to as "self brain surgery" ... and the first dose is hope!

Click HERE to visit Dr. Warren's website, where you can order his books and sign up for his weekly newsletter, "Self Brain Surgery".

Click HERE to subscribe to Dr. Warren's daily podcast, "The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast".

Click HERE to connect with Dr. Warren on Substack.

Dr. Warren's books are also available on Amazon. Click HERE to connect with his author page.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

159 | Moving Past the Why with Tommy & Susan Cartwright

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

"You have to do what you know to do, even when you don't feel like doing it. Persevere, pray, read the Bible, and surround yourself with a supportive community" ... Good advice from Tommy and Susan Cartwright, whose son Chad died following an accidental heroin overdose in 2011. Today we extend our conversation from last week and discuss the sometimes unhelpful things people say, dealing with the holidays, moving past the "why" to the "what now", and finding the path from pain to purpose. I believe you'll be encouraged by our discussion.

Click HERE to access the "How the Non-Bereaved Can Help" document that was referenced in this episode.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

158 | A Period, Not a Question Mark with Tommy & Susan Cartwright

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

We had the incredible privilege of hosting two While We're Waiting events in Botswana, Africa, a couple weeks ago, and today's episode opens with a brief summary of our time there. The bereaved parents we met there were gracious and kind, and we are so grateful that we were able to play a small role in assisting them to find community with others who truly understand the journey of child loss, and are leaning on Jesus to get them through. It was an experience I'll never forget.

Today I also have the pleasure of introducing you to my friends, Tommy and Susan Cartwright, from Pineville, Louisiana. They are the parents of Chad, a personable young man with a magnetic personality and a tender heart, who served honorably in the United States Army, completing a 13-month-tour of Iraq. He fought another battle as well, and that was a battle against addiction, and ultimately God received him into Heaven in May of 2011 due to an accidental heroin overdose. Today, the Cartwrights share his story, and discuss the impact his passing had on their marriage relationship. Come back next week as we extend our conversation to include some very practical issues faced by parents after the loss of a child.

Click HERE to access the "How the Non-Bereaved Can Help" document that was referenced in this episode.

Click HERE to listen to my interview with Scott and Karen Harmening.

Click HERE to listen to my interview with Lisa Armstrong.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

157 | "Discerning Biblical Truth" Conference Panel Discussion - Discerning Truth in the Battle: Lies of the Enemy

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In last week’s episode I shared a panel discussion from the Discerning Biblical Truth for Bereaved Parents Conference on “Ten Truths About Child Loss” … and if you missed it, I hope you’ll go back and listen … especially if you find yourself wondering if what you’ve been experiencing after the loss of your child is “normal”.

Today, I’d like to share another panel discussion from that conference … This one is titled, “Discerning Truth in the Battle: Lies of the Enemy and Putting on the Armor of God”. We all know that we as grieving parents are especially vulnerable to the attacks of Satan, and this discussion will give you some tools to fight back. Again, the panel includes Brad and I, Don and Patsy Akin, blogger Melanie DeSimone, and Gary & Laura House, who founded the Our Hearts Are Home Ministry. A video of this discussion is available on YouTube and you'll find the link below in the show notes.

And be sure to come back next week, as I’ll be sharing with you some of our experiences from the While We’re Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents we hosted in Botswana, Africa! I can’t wait to tell you all about it!

Click HERE to view this discussion on YouTube.

Click HERE to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home ministry and read about their many offerings for bereaved parents.

Click HERE to follow Melanie DeSimone's blog, "The Life I Didn't Choose",

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

156 | "Discerning Biblical Truth" Conference Panel Discussion - Ten Truths About Child Loss

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

As you listen to this episode today, our WWW team is getting on an airplane heading home from our first-ever While We’re Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents in Botswana, Africa. So instead of my typical interview format, I’m will be presenting panel discussions from the recent “Discerning Biblical Truth for Bereaved Parents” conference hosted by the Our Hearts Are Home ministry over the next two episodes.

The panel members include my husband Brad and I, Don and Patsy Akin, blogger Melanie DeSimone, and Gary & Laura House, who founded the Our Hearts Are Home Ministry. The topic of today’s panel discussion is “Ten Truths About Child Loss” and I believe you’ll find some very practical and helpful information here … and maybe help you realize what you’re experiencing is normal. For now, just lean in and listen …and be sure to come back next week to hear another great panel discussion.

Click HERE to view this discussion on YouTube.

Click HERE to learn more about the Our Hearts Are Home ministry and read about their many offerings for bereaved parents.

Click HERE to follow Melanie DeSimone's blog, "The Life I Didn't Choose",

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

155 | The Fruit of Sorrow with Joyce Toups

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

"Eat the fruit of sorrow, even if it's bitter, because this fruit that you can only eat now at this time has nutrients in it that you can't get any other way. " ~John Piper

This quote is just part of my discussion with Joyce Toups today, as we talk about some very practical aspects of life after child loss. Many of her insights are related to the loss of a child to suicide, but no matter what your particular circumstances, I believe you will resonate with what she has to share. Lean in, listen, and be encouraged.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

154 | "Do You Trust Me?" with Joyce Toups

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Cody Rainwater was described by his kindergarten teacher as “the kind of child you remember.” He grew into a young man with a big heart, a quiet disposition, and someone who always rooted for the underdog. His mom, Joyce Toups, was in her church parking lot in November of 2010, when she received word that Cody had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, launching her on a journey she really didn’t think was survivable. Today she shares how God has gently brought her to a place of trust. Lean in and be encouraged …

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

153 | Writing a Symphony with Linda Brown

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

"Through all of this chaos, you are writing a symphony" ... these song lyrics from Switch are an apt description of Linda Brown's life. In last week’s episode, Linda shared about the abuse she endured as a child, some of the poor life choices that led to, the loss of her adult daughter Jessica two years ago, and how God has taken the chaos in her life and is writing a symphony with it. Today we extend our conversation to cover a wide range of very practical issues faced by bereaved parents. I believe you'll be encouraged by what she has to share and I hope you'll listen in!

Click HERE to listen to "Symphony" by Switch.

Click HERE to find the "While We're Waiting - Christian Grief and Hope" playlist, curated by Scott Harmening.

Click HERE to connect with Linda Brown on Facebook.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

152 | "Jesus, Help Me!" with Linda Brown

Wed, 31 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes "Jesus, Help Me!" is the deepest cry of your heart. That's where Linda Brown found herself after the sudden loss of her adult daughter Jessica a little over two years ago. Linda has dealt with some very difficult circumstances in her life, beginning with sexual abuse as a child, a series of failed marriages as a result of that, and then the tragic death of Jessica. But hers is also a story of redemption, and I believe you'll be blessed and encouraged as you hear how Jesus flung open the door of her dungeon and let in the sunlight. Then be sure to come back next week as we extend our conversation to include issues we face every day as bereaved parents.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

151 | Preaching to Myself (Part Two) with Chuck and Lou-Ann Fowler

Wed, 24 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

"We may not always be on the same page, but we are on the same team ... We are on Team Fowler." These wise words from Lou-Ann Fowler are a great description of how we can face the grief of child loss as husbands and wives. We discuss the marriage relationship in today's episode, along with the “things people say”, dealing with the holidays and other special days, the “before” and “after” of child loss, and, as always, we close with the titles of some favorite songs from the Fowler's playlist. I believe you'll be blessed by listening in!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

150 | Preaching to Myself (Part One) with Chuck and Lou-Ann Fowler

Wed, 17 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Chuck and Lou-Ann Fowler describe their son Aaron as "unflappable, methodical, and competent" and someone who loved a challenge ... exactly the character traits needed to work in explosive ordnance disposal with the Navy! Aaron was also a young man of strong faith, which became sight when he died in a training accident on Easter Sunday in 2022. They join me today to share the story of his remarkable life.

The Fowlers reference their friends Don and Patsy Akin, who have lost all three of their sons. I interviewed them in Episode #42 of this podcast on April 28, 2021 and you can listen to that episode at the following link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1230350/8415488

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

149 | Ten Thoughts On Mother's Day

Wed, 10 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Fifteen years ago I faced my first Mother's Day just three months after my 17-year-old daughter Hannah went to Heaven ... and I honestly did not know if I would survive it. Over the years, this holiday has softened quite a bit, and I'm so grateful for that. In today's episode, I share ten thoughts that I hope will encourage another hurting mom facing this incredibly difficult day.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

148 | Anchored in Always (Part Two) with Katie Thornhill

Wed, 03 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Katie Thornhill and I continue the conversation we began last week about the aftermath of her son Marcus's diagnosis with DIPG brain cancer and his homegoing just shy of his eighth birthday. We address issues related to lack of control, surrender, finding peace, and the importance of vulnerability in our journeys. Katie also shares about her own podcast and how we can truly be "anchored in always." Our discussion is uplifting and encouraging, and I believe you'll be blessed by listening in!

Click HERE to visit Katie's website, where you can find a link to the "Anchored in Always" podcast and her Christian Life Coaching information.

Click HERE to connect with the Marcus Strong Foundation on Facebook.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

147 | Anchored in Always (Part One) with Katie Thornhill

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Katie Thornhill is a bereaved mom, fellow podcaster, and professional Christian Life coach, and she joins me today to share the story of her son Marcus, a rowdy and resilient boy who once described himself as “the luckiest kid in the world”. In 2018, he was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor, and fought as a fierce warrior for almost two years before he went to Heaven. I believe you'll be encouraged by our conversation today!

Click HERE to visit Katie's website, where you can find a link to her podcast and her Christian Life Coaching information.

Click HERE to connect with the Marcus Strong Foundation on Facebook.

Click HERE to see the "It's Gonna Be A Fun Day" book on Amazon.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

145 | "Am I Gonna Make It?" with Shirley Thiessen

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Author, speaker, and grief coach Shirley Thiessen joins me on the podcast again today. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to click HERE to hear the story of her 23-year-old son Jordan, who was killed in a workplace accident in 2012. Today we extend our conversation to talk about how, after the loss of a child, we can find ourselves completely frozen in grief and unable to move forward. We also discuss how God can use us to become Hope Heroes to others who are grieving and how that can help bring about healing in our own lives. Finally, we’ll address the question many grieving parents find themselves asking … “Am I Gonna Make it?”

Click HERE to purchase Shirley's book, "The Little Black Funeral Dress".

Click HERE to visit Shirley's grief-coaching website.

Click HERE to visit the website of CornerBend Ministries.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

145 | Recycling Our Pain with Shirley Thiessen

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Jordan Thiessen was a disciplined, introverted young man who enjoyed reading his Bible, the encyclopedia, and National Geographic every evening. He also kept a prayer journal where he recorded some of his deepest conversations with the Lord. On October 6, 2012, he married the love of his life, and less than two weeks later, he was killed in a workplace accident. His mom, Shirley, joins me today to share his story, and to talk about the the crisis of faith she experienced after he left for Heaven. We’ll spend some time going through the “Five Things I Wish I Had Known About Grief” from her book "The Little Black Funeral Dress". I believe you will be blessed and encouraged by our conversation ... and I hope you'll come back next week to hear the second half!

Click HERE to purchase Shirley's book, "The Little Black Funeral Dress".

Click HERE to visit Shirley's grief-coaching website.

Click HERE to visit the website of CornerBend Ministries.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

144 | Eagerly Waiting

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Easter, like all holidays, can be a painful time after the loss of a child. Memories of carefully-posed Easter photos, colorful baskets overflowing with candy-filled eggs, and worship services shared as a family, can make the "missing" seem even more intense. Today I share some reflections from the blog of Karen Harmening, the mother of Sarah, who died in a church bus accident just a few weeks after Easter in 2017. I hope these thoughts are an encouragement to you today.

Click HERE to read more from Karen's blog, Listening To Him.

Click HERE to listen to my interview with Scott and Karen Harmening, recorded in September of 2020.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

143 | Not the Elephant in the Room with Chris and Tina Howton

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In last week's episode, Chris and Tina Howton shared the story of their 19-year-old son, Garrett, who was killed in a tragic boating accident in 2014. Today we extend our discussion to include issues often faced by bereaved parents, including the sometimes inappropriate things people say, dealing with the holidays and other special days, anger with God, the profound life changes that result from child loss, and how, as a bereaved parent, we sometimes feel like we're the elephant in the room. We’ll also talk about a special event they sponsor in Garrett’s memory, and the WWW support group they lead in southeast Illinois. We’ll pick up our conversation right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to listen to last week's episode with the Howtons.

Click HERE to learn more about the Smokin' for Garrett event scheduled for October 6-7, 2023, in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

For more information about the While We're Waiting Support Group for Bereaved Parents hosted by the Howtons, you may email Tina at howtontina216@yahoo.com.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

142 | Under His Wings with Chris and Tina Howton

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Garrett Ward was a country boy who loved to hunt and fish and always had a smile for everyone he met. He was 19 years old and boating with friends on the Ohio River when he lost his life in a tragic incident. His mom and stepdad join me today to share his story, and to talk about the impact his death has had on their relationship with God and with each other.

Click HERE for more information about "Discerning Biblical Truth - A Conference for Bereaved Parents" coming up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the weekend of April 21-22, 2023.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

141 | Worthy with Shannan Petrocelli

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Shannan Petrocelli joins me again today to discuss life in the aftermath of child loss, exploring sensitive issues like blaming yourself, believing that you’re being punished, and wondering if you’re worthy of healing. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back to hear the story of Shannan's beautiful 10-year-old daughter Maci, whose life was taken by a drunk driver and the judicial process that followed. Shannan speaks with authenticity and grace, and I’m excited you’ll get to hear more of her story today. We are picking up the interview right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to listen to last week's episode with Shannan!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

140 | More to My Story with Shannan Petrocelli

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Maci Harris was a ten-year-old girl with an affinity for horses, a heartfelt love for Jesus, and a courageous spirit. Her earthly life ended on January 1, 2013, due to the poor choices of an intoxicated driver. Shannan Petrocelli joins me today to share Maci's story, including the details of what happened that day and the legal process that followed. She also talks about the abuse and trauma she herself endured as a child and young adult and the impact it has had on her grief journey. Shannan shares her story with authenticity and grace, and it is a tale you don't want to miss.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

139 | A Sacrifice of Praise with Grace Whitnah

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

After losing two of her sons to suicide, Grace found herself in a state of rage, and realized she liked it there. In today's episode, we discuss how she worked through that by taking her thoughts captive and focusing on the sovereignty of God. We also talk about issues related to spiritual warfare, dealing with PTSD, coming to a place of submission, and the new battle Grace is facing with her cancer diagnosis. We wrap up our conversation by talking about the While We're Waiting support group for bereaved parents that she and her husband Reed host in Oklahoma City, and how she has reached a place of gratitude in her grief.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting support group Grace and her husband Reed host in Oklahoma City, you may call or text her at 405-229-6686, or you can email her at whitnah7@gmail.com.

In our conversation today, Grace refers to a YouTube video with Randy Alcorn. If you'd like to view that, you can link to it HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

138 | Collateral Beauty with Grace Whitnah

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Levi Whitnah was a talented artist, musician, and athlete, who loved bringing his friends to church. At the age of 14, with no warning signs or indications of what he was considering, he took his life. Thirteen years later, his brother Kole, who was also artistic, athletic, compassionate to the downtrodden, and known for giving the most amazing hugs, also took his life. Today I talk with their mom, Grace, about her remarkable sons, the journey she has walked out with God following each of these devastating events, and the collateral beauty she has found along the way.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting support group Grace and her husband Reed host in Oklahoma City, you may call or text her at 405-229-6686, or you can email her at whitnah7@gmail.com.

In the second half of this episode to be published next week, Grace refers to a YouTube video with Randy Alcorn. If you'd like to view that, you can link to it HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

137 | The Quitclaim Deed (Part Two) with Joe and Carolyn Bunker

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

My friends Joe and Carolyn Bunker join me on the podcast again today. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to go back to hear the story of their son Matthew, who died during a backcountry skiing incident on Mount Rainier in June of 2020 … and to hear about the quitclaim deed the Bunkers had signed two decades earlier committing all they owned to the Lord, including their precious son. We share a wide-ranging discussion today of issues faced by bereaved parents, including some very practical advice for those moms and dads who find themselves at the very beginning of their grief journey, and grieving together as husband and wife. We pick up the interview right where we left off last week.

Click HERE to listen to Part One of my conversation with Joe and Carolyn Bunker.

Click HERE to visit Matthew's photography website.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

136 | The Quitclaim Deed (Part One) with Joe and Carolyn Bunker

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Matthew Bunker was a deep thinker with an affinity for C.S. Lewis, a graduate of West Point, a talented photographer, and a man who loved God and enjoyed His creation. In the first half of this two-part episode, his parents Joe and Carolyn share the story of their remarkable son, who went missing 2 ½ years ago doing something he loved, descending Mount Rainier on a backcountry hike and ski descent. Three days later, his body was spotted by search and rescue air patrol, where it remains interred to this day in a glacial crevasse. As the family prepared for Matthew’s memorial service, Joe remembered a document they had signed years before, acknowledging God’s ownership of all they had, including their precious son. I believe your heart will be touched and your faith will be renewed by the story of a very special quitclaim deed.

Click HERE to visit Matthew's photography website.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

135 | Unimaginable with Laura Granger

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is a continuation of my chat with Laura Granger, mom of Luke, who went to Heaven with rhabdomyosarcoma cancer at the age of 17 a little over five years ago. We pick up where we left off last week with a discussion of the things people say, the holidays, the "before" and "after" of child loss, anger towards God, and how complicated prayer can be when your child does not receive earthly healing. You'll also hear about Luke's request that his money be used to help other kids go to YoungLife camp after he went to Heaven. I believe you'll be encouraged by our thought-provoking and honest conversation.

Click HERE to learn more about YoungLife ministry and its mission.

Click HERE to learn more about the Luke Legacy Fund, to make a donation so more kids have the opportunity to attend YoungLife camps, or to apply for a scholarship for your child! Scholarship applications open on February 1, 2023.

Click HERE to learn more about GriefShare or to find a group in your area.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

134 | You Are My Sunshine with Laura Granger

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

I’m so pleased today to introduce you to my friend Laura Granger. We first met two years ago when she attended our first While We're Waiting Weekend in Illinois, and I was so touched by the story of her son Luke. I suppose that’s because it’s somewhat similar to my own, but also because of the incredible attitude her “sunshine boy” had throughout his cancer journey. Luke was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma cancer in August 2015 at the age of 15, and he walked his journey faithfully until God called him home in September of 2017. I believe you’ll be inspired too, as Laura shares Luke’s story and the impact it has had on her own faith.

Click HERE to learn more about the YoungLife ministry and its mission.

Click HERE to learn more about the Luke Legacy Fund or to make a donation so more kids have the opportunity to attend YoungLife camps.

Click HERE to learn more about GriefShare or to find a group in your area.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

133 | Praise Him Anyway with Randy and Katrina Stevens

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Eight years ago this week, Randy and Katrina Stevens received the devastating news that their healthy, vibrant, 21-year-old daughter Rachel had suddenly and inexplicably died in her sleep while away at college. In last week's episode, they shared Rachel's story and discussed the impact her homegoing has had on their family and their faith and offered some advice for moms and dads who find themselves at the very beginning of their grief journey. Today we share a wide-ranging discussion of issues faced by bereaved parents, including husbands & wives who grieve very differently, dealing with our child’s grave, and handling disappointment with God. We'll also talk about the Rachel Kay Stevens Therapy Center, which provides no-cost occupational therapy services to uninsured and underinsured children from birth to age 18 in the Memphis area.

Click HERE for more information about the the Rachel Kay Stevens Therapy Center or to make a donation.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

132 | The Chipped Cup with Randy and Katrina Stevens

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

In the first half of this two-part episode, my friends Randy and Katrina Stevens share the story of their 21-year-old daughter Rachel, who went to sleep one night and woke up in Heaven. They honestly and candidly discuss the impact her unexpected death eight years ago has had on their family and their faith and share some advice for moms and dads who find themselves at the very beginning of their grief journey. I believe Katrina's story about a special gift she received from Rachel on the day she went to Heaven will be an encouragement to your heart today!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

131 | Our Hearts are Home with Gary and Laura House

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Gary and Laura House join me today to share the story of their son Nathan, a remarkable young man with a gift for fixing things, a zest for adventure, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Nathan began to struggle with depression after puberty, and ultimately took his own life at the age of 25. The Houses are the founders of a nonprofit organization called “Our Hearts are Home”, which offers several avenues of support for bereaved parents. They are also the editors of a new book called “Until Then: Stories of Loss and Hope”, that you’ll hear more about in our chat today. I believe you’ll be encouraged by our conversation.

Click HERE to connect with the Our Hearts are Home ministry.

Click HERE to view and subscribe to the Our Hearts are Home YouTube channel.

Click HERE to purchase the book "Until Then: Stories of Loss and Hope", edited by Gary and Laura

Click HERE for more information or to register for the "Discerning Biblical Truth: A Conference for Bereaved Parents" scheduled for April 21-22, 2023. This event will be held live in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but it will also be available online from anywhere in the world.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

130 | Long and New Sorrow

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

I remember breathing a huge sigh of relief after getting through our first Christmas after Hannah went to Heaven in 2009. I figured that other than the one-year mark which would be that next February, I had at least survived all the really hard “first year” stuff. I had no idea how difficult stepping into the new year without her was going to be. How could I start a new year without Hannah in it? How could I close the calendar on the last year she had been a part of our family? If you have not lost a child, this probably doesn’t make much sense to you … but if you have, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

As time has gone by, there’s still a bittersweetness in starting a new year that Hannah will not be a part of … a year in which fewer and fewer people will remember her, talk about her, or even say her name. It’s part of what my friend Karen Harmening calls “Long Sorrow”. Karen and her husband Scott shared their daughter Sarah’s story in Episode 8 … way back when this podcast first began, and she maintains a wonderful blog titled “Listening to Him”. I’d like to share with you her most recent entry, titled “Long and New Sorrow”. Wherever you find yourself on this journey of child loss, I believe it will be an encouragement to you.

To read "Long and New Sorrow" on Karen's blog, click HERE.

To listen to my interview with Scott and Karen Harmening recorded in September of 2020, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

129 | Grief is Not the Enemy with Hal and Elizabeth Barge

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

"Death is stronger than John and it's stronger than me, but it's not stronger than Jesus, who's the champion of heaven, who rose from the dead and defeated death" ... these are powerful words from Hal Barge, father of John, who battled mental illness for nine years, ultimately culminating in his death by suicide. Today's episode picks up where we left off last week, with an honest discussion of mental illness and its impacts on a family, dealing with grief after the loss of a child to suicide, and a reminder of the hope we have in Jesus Christ, even after the unimaginable has happened.

To learn more about our While We're Waiting Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

128 | Living with Unanswered Questions with Hal and Elizabeth Barge

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Hal and Elizabeth Barge's son John was a remarkable young man with a great sense of humor ... an Eagle Scout, a natural percussionist, and an enthusiastic backpacker. But after high school, they began to see a change in him, which led to a 9-year battle with mental illness, and ultimately to his death by suicide. Today we discuss navigating the difficult journey of mental illness, dealing with specific issues faced by parents who experience the loss of a child to suicide, and making peace with unanswered questions.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

127 | Joy in the Mourning (Part Two) with Leslie Harder

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is a continuation of my conversation with Leslie Harder, who joined me for this interview on what would have been her son William's 39th birthday. I hope you'll listen in for a rich discussion of issues faced by bereaved parents ... Including how the loss of her son has changed her, how we can choose to build a wall or a road in our grief, and the fact that she has confidence she'll see William again one day because of his "re-birthday".

Click HERE to get Leslie's book "Joy in the Mourning - Viewing the Rainbow from the Vale of Tears"

Click HERE to get Leslie's book "Mourning Devotions - Grieving God's Way"

Click HERE to get Leslie's book "Selah - 60 Moments with the Master"

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

126 | Joy in the Mourning (Part One) with Leslie Harder

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

I’m pleased today to introduce you to my friend Leslie Harder. Leslie joined me to record this episode on what would have been her son William’s 39th birthday. William went to Heaven suddenly and unexpectedly in August of 2016, just five days after the death of Leslie’s mother. In our conversation today, she shares about that experience and how God walked with her through those early days of grieving both her son and her mother. We also discuss her memoir “Joy in the Mourning – Viewing the Rainbow from the Vale of Tears,” in which she shares her story in a series of dated entries. I believe you’ll be encouraged by what she has to share today.

Click HERE to get Leslie's book "Joy in the Mourning - Viewing the Rainbow from the Vale of Tears"

Click HERE to get Leslie's book "Mourning Devotions - Grieving God's Way"

Click HERE to get Leslie's book "Selah - 60 Moments with the Master"

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

125 | Recapturing Gratitude

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

On this, our fourteenth Thanksgiving season since Hannah left us for Heaven, I wanted to share some thoughts about the early years of my grief and how God has brought healing over time. Sometimes offering thanksgiving is a sacrifice ... Actually, I believe it's always a sacrifice for a grieving parent. When you've been deeply, deeply hurt and disappointed with life, it costs something to be grateful. Yet when we recognize God for who He is, when we truly see His grace, we can recapture gratitude even in the midst of grief.

Click HERE to link to The Sullivan Four blog.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

124 | Mother of Wilde with Moria Rooney

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

I’m pleased today to introduce you to my new friend, Moria Rooney, also known as Mother of Wilde. Moria has a beautiful testimony of “praising Him anyway” even in the midst of loss. Settle in and listen as she shares the stories of her precious babies … two in Heaven and one with her here … and how she has grappled with deep questions of faith on her journey. We also discuss pregnancy after loss and the beautiful ministry she and her husband have established to honor the lives of infants and children who are now in the arms of Jesus. I know you’ll be blessed by what she has to share.

Click HERE to visit the Mother of Wilde website and see the beautiful child loss memorial prints she creates. Podcast listeners can use the coupon code "WAITING20" to receive 20% off any purchase.

Click HERE to access the free download page on the Mother of Wilde website.

Click HERE to connect with Moria on Instagram
Click HERE to connect with Moria on Facebook

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

123 | Indestructible with Kim Allison

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

"Wherever you are, be all there." This was the motto of Kim's son Timothy, and he truly lived it out ... traveling to countries all over the world, parachuting, scuba diving, and flying his airplane. All these things could have combined to make his mom nervous, but she rested in the knowledge that Timothy was indestructible until his purpose was finished. When she got the news that his plane had gone down in a rural area of Arkansas in April of 2021, she fully believed he would walk away. When the news came that there were no survivors, she and her family were launched on a journey of grief. One year later, a second blow came with the sudden passing of her husband by suicide. In today's episode, she shares how God is carrying her sorrow and anger for her, enabling her to continue walking in His peace.

Click HERE for Kim's book: Desperate Trust - Clinging to God When Your World Falls Apart. This book shares the stories of her babies in Heaven.

Click HERE to visit Kim's website: A Life Well Lived - Timothy Christian Allison
This website shares the story of her 28-year-old son Timothy, who went to Heaven in 2021.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

122 | Treasures in Heaven with Kim Allison

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0500

My friend Kim Allison is the mother of nine children ... five "on the ground", as she likes to say, and four in Heaven. She joins me on the podcast today to share the stories of her three babies, Benjamin, Jeremiah, and Jordan. We discuss the struggles she experienced as she endured these multiple losses, including guilt, bargaining, anger, and the desperate trust in God that developed as she laid up these treasures in Heaven, one after another. Be sure to come back next week as Kim will be sharing the story of her 28-year-old son Timothy, who went to Heaven in 2021 as a result of a plane crash. I believe you will be so encouraged by what she has to share.

Click HERE for Kim's book: Desperate Trust - Clinging to God When Your World Falls Apart. This book shares the stories of her babies in Heaven.

Click HERE for Kim's website: A Life Well Lived - Timothy Christian Allison
This website shares the story of her 28-year-old son Timothy, who went to Heaven in 2021.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

121 | One Day Closer (Part Two) with Becky Carpenter

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Becky Carpenter joins me again today for a rich discussion of issues faced by bereaved parents, including parenting surviving children, navigating grief as husband and wife, dealing with the dreaded "things people say", and how to face the holidays, as well as our children's birthdays and Heaven Days. She also shares how God called her to start One Day Closer ministries and how He is using it to bring a message of hope to people around the world. Settle in for some very practical words of wisdom ... You may even want to take notes!

Connect with Becky:
Click HERE for her Becky's personal website
Click HERE for the One Day Closer Ministries website
Click HERE for the One Day Closer Ministries Facebook page
Click HERE to connect with Becky on Instagram
Click HERE to connect with Becky on Twitter

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

120 | One Day Closer (Part One) with Becky Carpenter

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

My friend Becky Carpenter likes to introduce herself as a "dysfunctional servant for Jesus". She joins me on the podcast today to share how the sudden loss of her 15-year-old daughter Skylar jarred her from a place of complacency in her faith to a Christian who seeks God's face. She describes how He met her at the scene of Skylar's accident and assured her of His presence, and how He has carried her since that terrible day. Becky is the founder and president of One Day Closer Ministries, a nonprofit organization committed to sharing the powerful message of love, truth, grace, and hope found through a relationship with Jesus Christ. I believe you'll be encouraged by our conversation today!

Connect with Becky:
Click HERE for her personal website
Click HERE for the One Day Closer Ministries website
Click HERE for the One Day Closer Ministries Facebook page
Click HERE to connect with Becky on Instagram
Click HERE to connect with Becky on Twitter

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

119 | A Foundation of Hope (Part Two) with Steve and Heather Colvin

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Steve and Heather Colvin are my guests again today as we continue our discussion of infant loss and its impacts on a family. When their daughter AnnaJoy was born at 27 weeks gestation and went to Heaven one short week later, they found themselves on a journey they never would have chosen. Today they share some thoughts for other moms and dads who have recently experienced infant or womb loss, including a discussion of the immense value of every life, no matter how brief. They also discuss AJ's Place, a nonprofit ministry they've founded that seeks to come alongside infant-loss parents in some very unique and meaningful ways .

Connect with AJ's Place - A Foundation of Hope
Website: https://ajsplace.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajsplaceafoundationofhope/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ajsplaceafoundationofhope
Email: hello@ajsplace.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

118 | A Foundation of Hope (Part One) with Steve and Heather Colvin

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

October is pregnancy and infant loss awareness month, and I’m joined on the podcast today by my new friends Steve and Heather Colvin, the founders of AJ’s Place, a nonprofit organization that works to bring healing and hope to families who have been struck by the tragedy of infant and womb loss. In the first half of this two-part episode, they share the story of their precious daughter AnnaJoy, who was born at 27 weeks gestation and went to Heaven one short week later. They honestly and candidly discuss the impact of AJ’s homegoing on their faith and on their marriage, and I’m grateful to have them as my guests today.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

117 | The Marriage Relationship after Child Loss with Ron and Nan Deal (Part Two)

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Today’s episode is a continuation of my conversation with Ron and Nan Deal. Ron is a Director with FamilyLife, the author of more than a dozen resources, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. Nan is a teacher with over 25 years of experience in public and private schools and she also volunteers in a recovery ministry. Ron and Nan travel and speak all over the country on marriage and the loss of a child, and I am grateful to have them join me again today. We had a great discussion about the marriage relationship after child loss in last week’s episode, so if you didn’t catch that one, you’ll want to go back and listen. Today we extend our conversation to include issues faced by blended families and parenting surviving children. I believe you’ll find our discussion both helpful and uplifting.

Links related to Ron Deal:

Click HERE for Ron Deal's author page on Amazon
"As for Me and My House" ministry website: https://rondeal.org/
"Smart Stepfamilies" website: https://smartstepfamilies.com/about/about-ron-deal
"FamilyLife Blended" website: http://familylifeblended.com/

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhileWeRWaiting

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

116 | The Marriage Relationship after Child Loss with Ron and Nan Deal (Part One)

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

One of the topics that frequently arises at our While We’re Waiting Weekends is the impact that child loss can have on the marriage relationship … so we’ve brought some folks who are very knowledgeable about that subject onto the podcast today! My friends Ron and Nan Deal have been married since 1986 and have three sons. Ron is a Director with FamilyLife, the author of more than a dozen resources, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. Nan is a teacher with over 25 years of experience in public and private schools and she also volunteers in a recovery ministry. Their 12-year-old son Connor went to Heaven in 2009, so they are “waiting” parents as well. Ron and Nan travel and speak all over the country on marriage and the loss of a child, and I am grateful to have them join me on the podcast today.

Links related to Ron Deal:

Click HERE for Ron Deal's author page on Amazon
"As for Me and My House" ministry website: https://rondeal.org/
"Smart Stepfamilies" website: https://smartstepfamilies.com/about/about-ron-deal
"FamilyLife Blended" website: http://familylifeblended.com/

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhileWeRWaiting

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry:

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

115 | A Story of Handprints and Daffodils with Celeste Helcel

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

I’m excited today to introduce you to my friend Celeste Helcel, who has so much wisdom to share after three decades of missing her son Klint. When Klint went to Heaven in 1991, support systems for bereaved parents really did not exist. There were no cell phones, no internet, no Facebook groups for grieving parents, and certainly no podcasts. The handwritten notes and cards she received during those early years were a lifeline to her and helped her realize she was not alone. In time, she learned that God comforted her, not to make her comfortable, but to make her a comforter, and she certainly is that. Sit back and listen in for some words of wisdom and encouragement today.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhileWeRWaiting

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

114 | A Story of Weepyseeds (Part Two) with Becky Russell

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to episode #114, which is a continuation of my conversation with my friend Becky Russell as we discuss a wide range of issues faced by parents who have experienced the loss of a child. If you missed last week’s episode, you’ll want to be sure to back and listen to hear the story of her daughter Jae Lynn, who went to Heaven in 2004 due to a car accident. God has gifted Becky with a unique ability to share wisdom mixed with humor, which she does in her blog called Weepyseeds, and I know you’ll be blessed by listening in to our conversation.

Click HERE to connect with Becky's Weepyseeds Facebook page (her current writings)
Click HERE to link to Becky's Weepyseeds blog (her writings from 2007-2018)

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhileWeRWaiting

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

113 | A Story of Weepyseeds (Part One) with Becky Russell

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

I’m so excited today to introduce you to my friend Becky Russell, who has been a personal mentor to me ever since my own daughter Hannah went to Heaven thirteen years ago. Becky’s blog "Weepyseeds" was a lifeline to me in the early days of my grief and gave me hope that I could survive my loss. In the first half of this two-part episode, Becky shares the story of her beautiful 16-year-old daughter Jae Lynn who died along with two other girls in a car accident in 2004. She talks about how she dealt with the “What Now?” in the aftermath of that terrible day and shares words of encouragement to others who find themselves reeling after the sudden loss of a child. I believe you’ll be blessed by listening in.

Click HERE to connect with Becky's Weepyseeds Facebook page (her current writings)
Click HERE to link to Becky's Weepyseeds blog (her writings from 2007-2018)

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhileWeRWaiting

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

112 | A Story of Beauty from Ashes (Part Two) with Chrisy Slate

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome back for the second half of my conversation with Chrisy Slate, whose son Caleb took his own life with absolutely no warning just as he was beginning his senior year of high school in 2019. Today we expand our discussion to include some very practical issues faced by bereaved parents, particularly those who have lost children to suicide. Chrisy shares some encouraging words from her blog and talks about the Caleb Cares Project she and her husband Joe have begun in honor of their son.

To access a transcript of our conversation, please click HERE.

Links related to The Caleb Cares Project:

Click HERE for The Caleb Cares Project Facebook page.
Click HERE for The Caleb Cares Project website.

Click HERE to read Chrisy's blog, "A Journey for Caleb"

For more information about the While We're Waiting support group the Slates facilitate in the Clarksville, Tennessee, area, contact them at joechrisys@gmail.com.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

111 | A Story of Beauty from Ashes (Part One) with Chrisy Slate

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Chrisy Slate joins me today to share the story of her remarkable son Caleb, who died by suicide just as he was beginning his senior year of high school with absolutely no signs or indications of what he was about to do. Chrisy is still in the thick of her grief, but she is beginning to see glimmers of beauty coming from the ashes of her loss. I hope you'll listen in for a very honest and open discussion of teen suicide and its impacts on a family.

To access a transcript of our conversation, please click HERE.

Links related to The Caleb Cares Project:

Click HERE for The Caleb Cares Project Facebook page.
Click HERE for The Caleb Cares Project website.

Click HERE to read Chrisy's blog

For more information about the While We're Waiting support group the Slates facilitate in the Clarksville, Tennessee, area, contact them at joechrisys@gmail.com.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

110 | A Story of Oaks and Ruins (Part Two) with Jason and Amy Carter

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Jason and Amy Carter are my guests again today as we continue our discussion of their book "Oaks and Ruins - Letting God Redeem Your Loss", which they wrote after the death of their daughter Katie Beth in the fall of 2016. This book is based on Isaiah 61:3-4 and includes eight chapters brimming with wisdom and encouragement for grieving moms and dads. Last week we talked about the first four chapters (Loss, Listen, Look, and Learn), and today we discuss the last four - Live, Love, Laugh, and Legacy.

Click HERE to purchase your own copy of "Oaks and Ruins - Letting God Redeem Your Loss" by Jason and Amy Carter on Amazon.

Click HERE to learn more about Live & Love Ministries.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

109 | A Story of Oaks and Ruins (Part One) with Jason and Amy Carter

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Jason and Amy Carter join me today to share the story of their spunky ballerina Katie Beth and the book they have written about their experience as grieving parents, "Oaks and Ruins - Letting God Redeem Your Loss". The book is based on Isaiah 61:3-4 and includes eight chapters brimming with wisdom and encouragement for hurting moms and dads. Today we discuss the first four chapters: Loss, Listen, Look, and Learn.

Click HERE to purchase your own copy of "Oaks and Ruins - Letting God Redeem Your Loss" by Jason and Amy Carter on Amazon.

Click HERE to learn more about Live & Love Ministries.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

108 | A While We're Waiting Ministry Update with Brad Sullivan

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

My husband Brad joins me on the podcast today to discuss what his role with the While We're Waiting ministry will look like now that he has retired after 31 years in public education. We discuss the expansion of the While We're Waiting ministry across the nation and our gratitude that God continues to open up opportunities for us to meet more and more bereaved parents and hear the stories of their beautiful children. We stand amazed at what God has done with the WWW ministry over the last eleven years and look forward with great anticipation to what He may have ahead of us.

Want to know more about what goes on at a While We're Waiting weekend? Listen here to Episode #53: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about a While We're Waiting Weekend But were Afraid to Ask

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

107 | A Story of Helping Hurting Hearts (Part Two) with Charlotte Miller

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of my conversation with Charlotte Miller, we expand our chat to include a wide range of issues faced by bereaved parents, such as dealing with the dreaded “things people say”, saying "Yes" to the Lord (when we really want to say "No"), and how we can view all of our pain through the rosy-colored glasses of the cross. You’ll also learn about the Helping Hurting Hearts Ministry and find out how it can serve you as a bereaved parent. I believe you’ll be greatly encouraged by what Charlotte has to share.

Link to the Helping Hurting Hearts ministry: https://helpinghurtinghearts.org/

You can reach Charlotte by email at: hhh45@att.net

Click HERE to find "Experiencing Grief" by H. Norman Wright

Click HERE to find "Recovering from Losses in Life" by H. Norman Wright

Click HERE to find "A Decembered Grief" by Harold Ivan Smith

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting mini

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

106 | A Story of Helping Hurting Hearts (Part One) with Charlotte Miller

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

My conversation over the next two episodes is with Charlotte Miller, the founder of the Helping Hurting Hearts ministry, which provides support and encouragement to hundreds of bereaved parents around the nation. I believe you'll be encouraged today as she shares the story of her 17-year-old son Calvin who went to Heaven in May of 2001, and discusses issues of bitterness, secondary losses, embracing grief, and the freedom to "not do it perfectly". She reminds us that, "If you grieve a lot, it's because you loved a lot."

Link to the Helping Hurting Hearts ministry: https://helpinghurtinghearts.org/

Click HERE to find "Experiencing Grief" by H. Norman Wright

Click HERE to find "Recovering from Losses in Life" by H. Norman Wright

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

105 | A Story of Living Fearlessly (Part Two) with Melissa Crone

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of our conversation, Melissa shares three specific pieces of advice for newly grieving parents and talks about how we can stop striving and be still before the Lord. We also discuss some ideas for dealing with holidays and birthdays and talk about how Melissa's relationship with God has changed since the homegoing of her daughter Kristen due to laced heroin in the fall of 2019. I believe our conversation will be an encouragement to you on your journey!

You can find some of the devotionals Melissa has written here: https://christiandevotions.us/viewauthor/3651

You can connect with Melissa on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/melissa.crone.948

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

104 | A Story of Living Fearlessly (Part One) with Melissa Crone

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Melissa Crone joins me today to share the story of her beautiful daughter Kristen, who was gentle and kind with an innate gift for music and an affinity for sharks … and someone who lived her life fearlessly. In the fall of 2019, laced heroin took Kristen to Heaven. I hope you’ll listen in to the first half of this two-part episode as we discuss specific issues faced by parents who lose children to drug-related causes, dealing with forgiveness, and the evolving of grief over time.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

103 | A Story of Listening to His Voice with David and Tracie Freeman

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of our two-part conversation, David and Tracie Freeman discuss specific issues faced by a parent whose child died due to fentanyl poisoning, including forgiveness for the decisions that child made. They also share some very practical advice for parents who are in the early months and years of grief, discuss how the loss of their son Nic has impacted their faith, and talk about the importance of listening to God's voice.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

102 | A Story of Grabbing for Hope with David and Tracie Freeman

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

David and Tracie Freeman join me today on what would have been their son Nic’s 34th birthday … a perfect time to share his story! In the first half of this two-part episode, they talk about Nic’s growing up years, the smart and talented young man he was, and some of the struggles he encountered, eventually culminating in his death due to fentanyl poisoning the day after Christmas in 2020. Their story is one of "grabbing for hope" while they’re waiting to see him again one day.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

101 | Preparing Rooms

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

The Bible tells us in the 14th chapter of John that in our Father's house are many rooms and Jesus is preparing a place for us there. Today I share the experience of preparing the rooms at the While We're Waiting Refuge in eager anticipation of the grieving parents who would one day come and stay in them ... and compare that with how Jesus may be preparing our rooms in Heaven. It's fun to think about, and hopefully it will be an encouragement to you today!

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents at The Refuge and other venues around the United States: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

100 | A Story of a Certain Hope (Part Two) with Wende Gaikema

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

As bereaved parents, I believe each of us has a very distinct dividing line in our lives, separating everything into the "before" and the "after". In this second half of my conversation with Wende Gaikema, we discuss the "before" Wende and the "after" Wende over the last four years since the suicide of her son Matt. Our conversation also includes advice for surviving the very early days of grief and dealing with those who may say things that are unhelpful. I believe you'll be encouraged by our chat.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

99 | A Story of a Certain Hope (Part One) with Wende Gaikema

Wed, 25 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Today Wende shares the story of her son, Matt, who died by suicide at the age of 22. Matt was an honor student at Texas A&M University ... a remarkable young with a keen mind, a quick wit, and a love for others and his dog Apple. As if often the case, there was no indication that Matt was planning to take his own life, and Wende describes suicide like a bomb going off in her family, leaving emotional shrapnel everywhere. Yet her story is one of a certain hope, anchored in faith in Jesus Christ. Settle in for a story of grief with hope.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

98 | A Story of Surrender with Mike and Connie Washburn

Wed, 18 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

In this second half of a two-part series, Connie describes her intense struggle with self-pity after the loss of her 11-year-old son Paul Michael and shares the moment when things began to turn around for her in her grief journey. She and Mike also give some very practical tips about survival after child loss, particularly in the early months and years, and Mike shares what he's learned about the sovereignty and character of God. We conclude this two-part series by discussing the ministry that has been born out of their shared grief.

To learn more about the Eternal Surrender ministry, click the following link: https://www.eternalsurrender.org/

To learn more about the Monkey Run or to register, click the following link: https://www.monkeyrun.org/

Additional links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

97 | A Story of "Pure Joy" with Mike and Connie Washburn

Wed, 11 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

"Pure Joy" ... that's how Connie Washburn describes her blond-haired, hazel-eyed 11-year-old son Paul Michael. In fact, she never had a "bummer day" with him. In the first half of this two-part episode, Connie shares Paul Michael's story and how the Lord took him home the day before Mother's Day in 2008. You will also meet Connie's husband, Mike, who shares his own personal journey with grief and how through their common losses, God brought them together to form a remarkable team. I hope you’ll settle in for a beautiful story of both sorrow and joy.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

96 | A Story of Forgiveness with Martha Warmuth

Wed, 04 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When her daughter Allison was killed in a preventable accident involving a tourist duck boat, Martha Warmuth found herself grappling with how to forgive the unforgiveable. In this second half of our two-part conversation, we discuss issues of forgiveness for others and for yourself, dealing with the sometimes awkward things people say, finding healing through serving others, and the “mighty movement” with which she’s become involved.

For information about the Families For Safe Streets movement, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtinM0DZSxA

Additional links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

95 | A Story of Being Thankful with Martha Warmuth

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Allison Warmuth was a beautiful and talented young woman who had a knack for accomplishing anything she set her mind to. When Allie was tragically killed in an avoidable accident in April of 2016, her mother Martha was launched on a journey she never could have anticipated. In today's episode (the first in a series of two), Martha joins me for a wide-ranging discussion which includes Allison's story and a number of very practical tips for survival on the child loss journey. You may want to grab a pen and take some notes!

GriefShare has been very helpful for Martha. Here is a link to find a GriefShare group near you: https://www.griefshare.org/

Martha's description of climbing the mountains of grief:

"When we started this journey it was like I was hiking one of our favorite mountain trails in the Adirondacks, or perhaps the White Mountains in New Hampshire. The base of the mountain is interesting but you can not really perceive the vast shape and size of the mountain. As I begin to climb the mountain I face fatigue and my heart aches. I'm not sure my heart can make it, but know I can with help and taking it slowly. I am afraid at times that I may fall and twist or break a leg and need carried out. Sometimes I stop to rest on a rock or go to the edge and peek out at the lovely views. It takes a long time to climb this mountain of grief, this mountain that I did very little training on how to climb before hand. The trail is steeper and longer than I realized. I've brought along a few provisions...my faith and some friends and family members who are understanding. We encourage each other along the way. But I am the one who must climb this mountain of grief to acceptance of my loss and joy again.

So when I post pictures or stories of Allie it is just my way of stopping along this difficult and grueling trail to peek out and appreciate the beautiful view... to not forget one of my girls. It is medicine for my aching heart and weak knees.

The beautiful view helps me to not think of giving up ever. I will, we will, make it. I know I may never come to the end of this mountain trail or if I do, like my husband hiking all 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks, I may climb them again even after I achieve my badge. But I hope each trip up and then down will make me stronger and better able, with God's help to handle any mountain I find myself on and perha

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

94 | A Story of Sibling Grief with Bethany Sullivan

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

"How can I help my surviving children?" is one of the most common questions that comes up at our While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parents. Today I host a return guest, my daughter Bethany, and we expand on our last discussion by addressing a series of questions submitted by bereaved parents. Our conversation is very open and honest regarding these difficult issues. I believe this is an episode that both grieving parents and grieving children will glean something from ... and that hopefully will open doors of communication between them.

If you'd like to listen to the previous episode Bethany and I recorded together in April of 2021, please click here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1230350/8282823

Here is the link to our private While We're Waiting Facebook group for bereaved siblings: https://www.facebook.com/groups/268079066696898

Additional links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public WWW Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private WWW Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

93 | A Story of "Just Today" with Judy Hostetler

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

"Just today" ... Two simple words that can have a profound impact in the life of a bereaved parent. As I continue my conversation today with Judy Hostetler, mom of Joshua and Kayli, she shares how she has adopted that phrase as a way of life, reminding us that we don't have to carry a whole lifetime's worth of grief at once ... but "just today." I hope you'll listen in for a wide-ranging and encouraging discussion of issues faced by bereaved parents.

To view Kayli's videos and to read her (and Judy's) blog, click here: www.finishwell.weebly.com

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

92 | A Story of a New Doorway with Judy Hostetler

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

As a young wife expecting her first baby, Judy had a certain picture of how the path of her life would go. When her son Joshua went to Heaven just minutes after he was born, she realized that God was calling her and her husband Michael to walk through a new doorway. I know you will be blessed by listening in on the first half of our conversation today, as we hear the story of Joshua and the impact that his life has made in the world. You will also be moved and inspired as Judy shares the story of her daughter Kayli, her courageous and faith-filled battle with cancer, and her ultimate healing in Heaven.

To view Kayli's videos and to read her (and Judy's) blog, click here: www.finishwell.weebly.com

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website with information about our free retreats for bereaved parents: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

91 | A Story of Doing Everything in Love with Doug and Raquel Lawrence

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Today's conversation with Doug and Raquel Lawrence picks up right where we left off last week and covers a wide range of issues bereaved parents encounter in their daily lives ... sadness over the things our kids missed out on, the marriage relationship after child loss, going back to church, forgiving God, and parenting surviving siblings. We even discuss some of the darker thoughts that bereaved parents sometimes have. You may find yourself saying, "I thought I was the only one!" as you listen in, and hopefully that will help you feel a little less alone on the journey.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

90 | A Story of Giving Even "This" To God with Doug and Raquel Lawrence

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Doug and Raquel Lawrence affectionately describe their daughter Parker as "a lot of sass with a little bit of class". In fact, her nickname was "Sassy", given to her by her big brother before she was even born. Parker was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes when she was in fifth grade, but never let it slow her down, playing a variety of sports and maintaining a very active social life. Two days after her 21st birthday, a car accident caused by another driver's negligence took her home to Heaven. In this first half of my conversation with her parents we discuss how this incident put them in a position of having to consider forgiveness and led them to give even "this" to God. Be sure to come back next week to hear the rest of our chat.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.org/donation/

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

89 | A Story of Being Bold (Part Two) with Deborah Ervin

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When Deborah's daughter Katelyn was murdered in 2018, she found herself in the middle of a challenging legal process filled with delays and frustrations. (You'll want to listen to last week's episode to hear more about Katelyn and her story.) Today, Debbie shares what God taught her as she moved through that process, and discusses issues of forgiveness in regard to the man who took Katelyn's life. We also talk about handling with grace the inappropriate things people sometimes say, and how what's happened in her life has impacted her relationship with God. She believes the Lord has called her to "be bold" as she shares her story, including how He is faithfully restoring her joy.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

88 | A Story of Being Still (Part One) with Deborah Ervin

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

In February of 2018, Deborah Ervin's life was forever changed when her 26-year-old daughter Katelyn's life was taken by an intruder in their home. In the first half of this two-part episode, Deborah shares the story of Katelyn's remarkable life and how God called her to “be still” throughout the ensuing legal process.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

87 | Ten Things That (Still) Make Me Smile

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Shortly after my 17-year-old daughter Hannah died, I began blogging, and I kept it up for several years. In the winter of 2011, about 2 ½ years after Hannah’s death, I wrote two blog posts … one titled Ten Things That (Still) Make Me Sad (last week's podcast episode), and one titled Ten Things That (Still) Make Me Smile, which I’ll be sharing in today's episode.

I remember literally smiling as I compiled this list of Ten Things, something that didn’t always come easily in those early years after Hannah’s death. My hope is that by sharing these things today, someone listening to this podcast may realize that even though we miss our kids desperately, it’s okay to smile … and even to laugh! In fact, I truly believe that my smiles honor my daughter’s life just as much, if not more than, my tears.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

86 | Ten Things That (Still) Make Me Sad

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

This coming Saturday will mark 13 years since my 17-year-old daughter Hannah went to Heaven, and I hope you won’t mind indulging me with some memories over the next couple of episodes.

Shortly after Hannah died, I began blogging, and I kept it up for several years. It was always so helpful to me write out my thoughts, struggles, and victories. I seem to be one of those people who doesn’t really know what they’re thinking until they put it in writing!

In November of 2011, about 2 ½ years after Hannah’s death, I wrote two blog posts … one titled Ten Things That Still Make Me Sad, and one titled Ten Things That Still Make Me Smile, and over the next two episodes, I’d like to share those.

I remember as I compiled the Ten Things That Still Make Me Sad, I was trying to clarify for myself what things were triggering my sadness. My thought was that by specifically identifying them, I could be better prepared for their onslaught. And maybe there's someone listening to this podcast who can relate ... who might hear this list and realize that they are not the only one who struggles with this kinds of things.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

85 | A Story of a Race Well Lived with Michelle Moore

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Have you been looking for a fresh, new Bible study as we move toward springtime? Maybe one that's not necessarily about child loss ... but one that was written by a bereaved parent so a "child loss perspective" is woven seamlessly throughout the study? Then you'll want to listen in to today's episode to hear about "A Race Well Lived", a 13-week Bible study written by Michelle Moore, in which she incorporates the lessons God has been teaching her since her son Joshua's death in 2013. She shares some of those lessons in our conversation today, and I know you'll be blessed and encouraged by listening in.

To purchase Michelle's book, "A Race Well-Lived", click HERE.

You can find Michelle's blog, "With Eyes on the Cross" by clicking HERE.

If you'd like to hear Michelle and her husband Michael share Joshua's story more fully, you can listen to that episode at this link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1230350/5556703

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

84 | A Story of Moving F.O.R.W.A.R.D. with Michelle Moore

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Grieving parents are often encouraged, explicitly or implicitly, to "move on" with their lives. In today's conversation with Joshua's mom, Michelle Moore, we discuss how hurtful that idea can be, and propose a much better alternative ... Moving F.O.R.W.A.R.D.

If you'd like to hear Michelle and her husband Michael share Joshua's story more fully, you can listen to that episode at this link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1230350/5556703

To purchase Michelle's book, "A Race Well-Lived", click HERE.

You can find Michelle's blog, "With Eyes on the Cross" by clicking HERE.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

83 | The Tyranny of Dates

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

I remember how I felt about the passing of time in the early days after Hannah went to Heaven. How at first I counted every day that she had been gone. How I eventually started counting in larger units of time ... a week, two weeks, a month, three months, six months, nine months, a year, five years, a decade. How I dreaded those anniversary dates to the point where it made me physically ill. I found myself living under the tyranny of those dates. But thankfully, over time, the weight of those dates has lightened. I hope it's a comfort to you to know that, as time passes, and as you daily lean on the Lord for strength, the dread of those special dates will loosen its grip on you, too.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

82 | A Story of Walking Out of Darkness (Part Two) with Nan Deal

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

When Nan's 12-year-old son Connor died suddenly and unexpectedly after a brief illness, she descended into a very dark place, and remained there for over a decade. She was adept at hiding her darkness, so her friends and family weren't aware of the battle she was fighting. But at her deepest level brokenness, God met her and drew her out of that pit. Today's episode is a continuation of her story from last week ... Be sure and listen to last week's episode as well to get her full story. If you find yourself in the darkness today, we pray that Nan's story will give you hope!

Click the following link to see Connor's legacy project in Ghana with the Touch A Life ministry: https://touchalifekids.org/story/art/connorcreative/

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

81 | A Story of Walking Out of Darkness (Part One) with Nan Deal

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Connor Deal was a 12-year-old boy with big plans for his life; in fact, he had dreams of being the next George Lucas. He loved his brothers and his mom and dad, and he also loved the Lord. A sudden illness that began with a simple headache rapidly became critical, and he went to Heaven in February of 2009. Today, I talk with his mom, Nan. Nan describes herself as a messy griever, an angry griever, and an offended griever … all things that most of us bereaved parents can relate to! In today’s episode, she very honestly and openly shares how deep into the darkness she went after Connor’s death. I hope you’ll settle in and listen as she shares her heart with us today … and be sure and come back next week to hear the rest of her story.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

80 | Dropping Our Nets

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

The story of Jesus calling the disciples to drop their nets and follow Him made me think about some ways we might relate to that story as bereaved parents. I share those thoughts in today's episode.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

79 | A Story of Sorrow and Joy with Erica Mapp

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Anthony Villaflor was a sensitive and thoughtful young man who loved others well. The murder of his father when he was a young teen caused him to seek God, which ultimately led his mom, Erica, to a relationship with the Lord as well. In the spring of 2014, Anthony went to sleep and didn't wake up due to an accidental drug overdose. In today's episode I chat with Erica about Anthony's death, how it impacted her faith, and where she finds herself now. I believe you’ll be encouraged as you hear both sorrow and joy in her voice as she shares her story. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself crying … and laughing … along as you listen in to our conversation.

Links from our conversation:

You can learn more about the Village United Ministry which provides school clothes and supplies to children who need them by clicking HERE. You can make a donation to the Village United Ministry by clicking HERE and choosing that ministry from the dropdown menu.

You can visit Erica's screen printing shop "Blood Bought" by clicking HERE, or you can find her shop on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Links related to the While We're Waiting ministry:

Our website: www.whilewerewaiting.org

Our public Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whilewearewaiting/

Our private Facebook group just for bereaved parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/while.were.waiting/

Make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry: https://whilewerewaiting.givingfuel.com/donate

You can reach Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

78 | New Year's Resolutions for Bereaved Parents

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0600

As bereaved parents, we know that some dates will be difficult -- Christmas, our child's birthday or Heaven Day, Mother's Day and Father's Day -- but we are often completely caught off guard by how difficult it is to turn the calendar to a new year for the first time after our child goes to Heaven. Today, Jill reprises a previous episode and shares some resolutions that may be helpful as we step into the new year.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

77 | Hope Is Not Cheap

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Today's bonus episode offers just a brief word of encouragement as we step into Christmas this weekend. Hope may not be cheap ... But, thank God, it is free!

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible year-end donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

76 | A Story of Praying for a Testimony (Part Two) with Lisa Crook

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

When her daughter Lauren went to Heaven in 2011 after bravely battling an aggressive cancer, Lisa Crook found herself on a journey she never would chosen. As we pick up our conversation today from where we left off last week, we discuss a wide range of issues faced by bereaved parents and share some very practical advice for life after child loss. I believe you'll be encouraged by our conversation, and maybe find some fresh hope for your own journey!

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible year-end donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

75 | A Story of Praying for a Testimony (Part One) with Lisa Crook

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Lauren Crook was a remarkable young woman with dreams of graduating from Ouachita Baptist University and becoming a speech-language pathologist. She was well on her way to accomplishing her goals when a simple runny nose led to a devastating diagnosis. Growing up in a Christian home and never experiencing much adversity in her life, Lauren had prayed that God would give her a testimony so she could be used by Him. Lauren's mom, Lisa, talks with me today about Lauren and how her testimony has touched the hearts of many.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible year-end donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

74 | A Story of Barely Breathing (Part Two) with Daphne Greer

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

After the death of her 5-year-old daughter Lydia in a car accident, there was a period of time when Daphne Greer felt so much guilt she could not even look at herself in the mirror. In this second part of our interview, she talks about working through that guilt with God's help, dealing with the holidays, and developing a habit of gratitude.

Click HERE to visit Daphne's website, "Grieving Gumdrops". You can also connect with her on Facebook by clicking HERE, and you can purchase her book "Barely Breathing - 10 Secrets to Surviving the Loss of Your Child" by clicking HERE.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

73 | A Story of Barely Breathing (Part One) with Daphne Greer

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

"Spunky and vibrant" are the words Lydia's mom, Daphne Greer, uses to describe her. She loved shopping, going to concerts, and creating art. Life changed in the blink of an eye in the summer of 2008 when a car accident took 5-year-old Lydia to Heaven, leaving Daphne riddled with guilt and feeling as though her life was over. Over time, as God began to mend her broken heart, she wrote a book titled "Barely Breathing - 10 Secrets to Surviving the Loss of Your Child", and we discuss that in our conversation today. Today's episode includes Lydia's story and the first four "secrets" in her book. Be sure to come back next week for the conclusion of our conversation.

Click HERE to visit Daphne's website, "Grieving Gumdrops". You can also connect with her on Facebook by clicking HERE, and you can purchase her book "Barely Breathing - 10 Secrets to Surviving the Loss of Your Child" by clicking HERE.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

72 | A Bouquet of Thorns

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

As we step into the official start of the difficult holiday season with Thanksgiving this week, Jill shares a story that illustrates how a simple bouquet of thorns can remind us that even in the midst of grief, there are still things for which we can be thankful.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

71 | A Story of Pointing to Another Son's Death with Greg and Paula Roberts

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Greg and Paula Roberts have two children in Heaven ... their daughter, Kaitlyn, who was stillborn in 1992, and their son, Matt, who drowned in 2009. I hope you’ll listen in as they share their stories and talk about the impact these losses have had on their lives and the lives of others. Then we’ll dig a little deeper into some advice for newly-bereaved parents, dealing with anger, what happens when spouses grieve differently, handling the holidays, and even some good things that can come from our loss. I think you’ll be encouraged by our conversation.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

70 | The Walk

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

In today's episode, Jill takes a fresh look at Isaiah 40:31 through the eyes of a bereaved parent ... and why it makes sense that we go from flying, to running, to walking.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

69 | A Story of a Deeper Faith with Carol Mathus

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, Jill talks with Carol Mathus, the stepmom of Danny, a young man with a passion for cycling and a contagious laugh. With great honesty and transparency, Carol shares about her crisis of faith after Danny's death, dealing with grief as a stepparent, surviving the holidays, and the ministry that has come from her experience with child loss.

For more information about the Hope Dawning ministry to bereaved moms in the Dallas, Texas, area, please click HERE.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, our support groups around the country, and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

68 | Absent, But Not Lost

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

It's hard to celebrate a birthday when the guest of honor is absent. This past week, my daughter Hannah would have turned 30 years old. Today's episode is my reflection on that milestone, and a reminder that though she was absent for this special day, I can praise God that she is not lost.

For information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents around the country, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

67 | A Story of a Life of Meaning and Purpose with Bryan and Brandy Davis (Part Two)

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Continuing our recognition of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, today's episode includes the second half of my conversation with Hattie Grace's mom and dad, Bryan and Brandy Davis. Today's chat builds upon last week's episode, as we discuss some very practical issues faced by those who have lost infants, dealing with triggers, and some of the ways that Hattie's life, though brief, has had an impact on the world.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and to learn about the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

If you'd like to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

66 | A Story of a Life of Meaning and Purpose with Bryan and Brandy Davis (Part One)

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

October has been designated as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. One in four families will lose a baby during pregnancy, delivery, or infancy. Bryan and Brandy Davis became one of those families in January of 2018. Their sweet Hattie Grace was diagnosed with Trisomy 18 while in the womb, and the Davises had ten precious hours with her before she went to be with Jesus. Though it was brief, Hattie's life had meaning and purpose and continues to have an impact today. In the first half of our conversation, Bryan and Brandy share Hattie's story, talk about grieving as a couple, and discuss how God has worked in their lives since that time. Be sure and come back next week to hear some practical advice from the Davises about life after the loss of a baby.

For information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free bereaved parent retreats we offer, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

65 | A Story of Sunshine and Shadow with Todd and Melissa Shaffer (Part Two)

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, Jill goes a little deeper with Tristan's parents, Todd & Melissa Shaffer, as they discuss issues specifically related to suicide loss and spend some time talking about some of Melissa's most popular blog posts. Be sure and listen to Part One of our conversation to hear more about their remarkable son Tristan.

You can find Melissa's website by clicking here: https://christiansuicideloss.com/

You can find our private While We're Waiting Facebook group by clicking here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhileWereWaiting.SupportForBereavedParents

You can find out more about our free, faith-based While We're Waiting Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide by clicking here: https://whilewerewaiting.org/services/retreats/parents-touched-by-suicide-weekend/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

64 | A Story of Sunshine and Shadow with Todd and Melissa Shaffer (Part One)

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0500

My conversation today is with Tristan’s mom and dad, Todd and Melissa Shaffer. In this first half of our discussion, they share the story of their "Sunshine Boy", and the shadow that gradually began to move across his face … ultimately leading to him taking his own life in their garage. They describe their efforts to seek help for him and the peace they’ve found as they’ve learned to rest in God’s sovereignty over Tristan’s life. They also share about issues specific to suicide that can complicate the grief journey. I hope you’ll come back next week for the second half of our discussion, when you’ll hear more about the website Melissa has developed specifically for Christian parents whose children have died by suicide, and some practical tips for this journey that no one would ever choose.

Melissa's website: www.ChristianSuicideLoss.com

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

63 | Miss Havisham

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Miss Havisham, a character in the book "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens, was jilted on her wedding day at precisely 9:20 am, and for her, everything stopped at that moment. She spent the rest of her life sitting at her dressing table in her wedding dress, one shoe on and one shoe off, with her wedding cake moldering beside her. In today's episode, Jill talks about how we, as bereaved parents, can find ourselves feeling just like Miss Havisham, and reminds us that we have a Bridegroom who is just waiting for us to take His hand.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we host for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE. Thank you!!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

62 | The Story of Millie's Miracle with Courtney Mount (Part Two)

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Today I’m pleased to bring you the second half of my conversation with Millie’s mom, Courtney Mount. If you missed last week’s episode, I encourage you to go back and listen to it to hear the story of sweet and sassy Amelia Joy who was carried home to Heaven by neuroblastoma cancer in July of 2020 … You really don’t want to miss that! Today’s episode builds on her story as we discuss some very practical issues commonly faced by bereaved parents – grief brain, the one-year mark, parenting our surviving children, dealing with awkward comments by well-meaning people, the importance of gratitude, and finding your smile again.

To follow Courtney's blog about Millie's Miracle and see pictures of sweet Millie, please click HERE. To find Courtney on Instagram, click HERE.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation or to become a monthly supporter of the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

61 | The Story of Millie's Miracle with Courtney Mount (Part One)

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Over 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer every year in the United States. In June of 2019, Courtney Mount's 2-year-old daughter Millie was one of those kids. As Millie battled her cancer with simple faith and sass, her mom and dad prayed, "Lord, please heal her and allow her to tell Your goodness with her own lips, but if You don't, we will tell her story for her." In the first half of our conversation, Courtney shares Millie's story for her.

To follow Courtney's blog and see pictures of their beautiful Millie, please click HERE.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation or to become a monthly supporter of the While We're Waiting ministry, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

60 | Brick by Brick

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0500

When a parent has lost a child, the thought of shouldering that burden of grief for a lifetime can be completely overwhelming ... even debilitating. In today's episode, Jill shares an article written by Tim Challies that reminds us we don't have to carry the entire weight of grief all at once, but rather we can carry it brick by brick until the Lord calls us home.

"I Miss My Son Today" by Tim Challies, originally published on challies.com on July 26, 2021: https://www.challies.com/articles/i-miss-my-son-today/ Quoted with permission from the author.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

59 | A Story of 37 Chapters of Lament (Part Two) with Teresa Davis

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Listen in for the second half of Jill's conversation with Teresa Davis about her son Andrew and the incident that took him home to Heaven in the fall of 2018. Make sure you go back and listen to the first half of our chat in which we discuss how God allowed her to lament through the first 37 chapters of Job ... and then met her there in her darkness. In today's episode, we enjoy a hope-filled discussion of several topics addressed in her new book “Finding Hope & Healing in the Midst of Grief - A Devotional for the Broken Hearted".

Click HERE to visit Teresa Davis's website and to get a copy of her book. Also available on Amazon by clicking HERE.

Click HERE to follow Teresa on Instagram, HERE to find her on Facebook, and HERE to check out her YouTube channel.

Click HERE to learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based bereaved parent retreats we offer.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

58 | A Story of 37 Chapters of Lament (Part One) with Teresa Davis

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0500

This is the first half of Jill's conversation with Teresa Davis about her son Andrew and the incident that took him home to Heaven in the fall of 2018. After his death, Teresa, who has known and loved the Lord for many years, went to a very dark place from which she thought might never recover. Listen in to hear how God led her to lament through the first 37 chapters of Job and then met her there in the darkness. Then come back next week as we discuss her new devotional book “Finding Hope & Healing in the Midst of Grief.”

Click HERE to visit Teresa Davis's website and to learn more about her book.

Click HERE to follow Teresa on Instagram, HERE to find her on Facebook, and HERE to check out her YouTube channel.

Click HERE to learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based bereaved parent retreats we offer.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

57 | Stealing My Stuff Again

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0500

So much of the battle in grief is spiritual in nature. As the years have passed, I've found that the times I really find myself in a deep, dark place about Hannah's death, it's because I've allowed Satan to get a foothold in my head and in my heart, and he's "stealing my stuff" again. It's at times like this that I have to remember what I know ...

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

56 | A Story of a Living Hope (Part Two) with Corrie Andrews

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Today's episode is the second half of Jill's conversation with Corrie Andrews, mom of Sadie Grace, who stepped into the arms of Jesus as a result of a tragic incident at a local ice cream shop in 2017. Listen in for a discussion of some very practical issues faced by grieving parents, including coping with "grief brain", dealing with the grief of young siblings, nurturing the marriage relationship, facing the holidays, handling the dreaded "how many kids do you have" question, and filling the empty chair.

To get connected with Corrie Andrews, email Jill at jill@whilewerewaiting.org.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free bereaved parent retreats we offer, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

55 | A Story of A Living Hope (Part One) with Corrie Andrews

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Three-year-old Sadie was a precious little girl who spread sunshine and cheer everywhere she went. When she stepped into the arms of Jesus as a result of a tragic incident at a local ice cream shop, her parents and five young siblings were suddenly launched into a journey of grief. Today's episode includes the first half of Jill's conversation with Sadie's mom Corrie about forgiveness, dealing with fear, grieving in public, and finding purpose in the pain.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we offer for bereaved parents, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

54 | A Story of a Different Kind of Miracle with Jim and Carol Smitherman

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0500

When the 19-year-old daughter of Jim and Carol Smitherman fell critically ill with a pulmonary embolism days before Christmas in 2011, they began to pray for a miracle. After that earthly miracle didn't happen and Sarah went to Heaven, they realized they had actually received a different kind of miracle, an even more powerful one.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we offer for bereaved parents, including the ones in the Lake Tahoe area, please click HERE.

For more information about our While We're Waiting support groups, including the one led by the Smithermans in Sparks, Nevada, please click HERE.

For more information about how you can make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry to allow us to continue to offer our retreats at no cost to the attendees, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

53 | Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About a While We're Waiting Weekend but Were Afraid to Ask

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0500

If you've ever wondered what our While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents are all about but were a little hesitant to look into them, this is your episode! Jill takes a few minutes today to share what a WWW Weekend is, who can come, where they are held, who leads them, and what our guests do while they're there. Ultimately, she reminds the listeners what our WWW Weekends are all about: 1) to assure parents that although life is different than we ever thought it would be it can still be good, 2) to remind parents that we are not alone on this journey, 3) to encourage parents to live well while they're waiting to see their children again, and most importantly, 4) to point hurting moms and dads to the hope we have in Jesus.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry or to register for a retreat, visit our website by clicking HERE.

To read about our different types of retreats, click HERE.

To see a list of all of our locations, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry so we can continue to offer these retreats at no cost to the attendees, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

52 | A Story of Surviving Sorrow (Part Two) with Kim Erickson

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0500

When her 3-year-old son Austin was diagnosed with strep throat on a Tuesday morning in the spring of 2008, Kim Erickson had no idea how her life was about to change. Austin's unexpected Homegoing just a few days later launched her on a journey of deep sorrow, but also led her to new life in Christ. Kim has compiled her experiences as a grieving mom into a book called "Surviving Sorrow: A Mother's Guide to Living with Loss", which includes very practical tips for life after the loss of a child. Today's episode is the second half of Jill's conversation with Kim, in which they have a wide-ranging discussion of issues faced on a daily basis by grieving parents.

Click HERE to visit Kim Erickson's website and access the many resources available there for grieving parents.

Click HERE to find resources on Heaven by Randy Alcorn.

Click HERE to learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

51 | A Story of Surviving Sorrow (Part One) with Kim Erickson

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0500

When her 3-year-old son Austin was diagnosed with strep throat on a Tuesday morning in the spring of 2008, Kim Erickson had no idea how her life was about to change. Austin's unexpected Homegoing just a few days later launched her on a journey of deep sorrow, but also led her to new life in Christ. Kim has compiled her experiences as a grieving mom into a book called "Surviving Sorrow: A Mother's Guide to Living with Loss", which includes very practical tips for life after the loss of a child. Today's episode is the first half of Jill's conversation with Kim, in which Kim shares Austin's story, how she came to know Jesus as her Lord and Savior, and the beginning of their discussion of some of the topics in her book.

Click HERE to visit Kim Erickson's website and access the many resources available there for grieving parents.

Click HERE to learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

50 | Don't Be a Knothead

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, Jill introduces her listeners to a goat named Knothead who spends his days lying around a barnyard ruminating, shares what God's Word has to say about ruminating, and discusses what all this has to do with us as bereaved parents.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the faith-based services we offer for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

49 | Father's Day After Child Loss with Brad Sullivan

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Today Jill is joined by her husband Brad to talk specifically about issues faced by bereaved dads. Brad shares some encouraging words about the gift of earthly fatherhood, the fact that we are still our kids' parents even after they go to Heaven, and that the future glory of fatherhood remains ahead of us.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Bereaved Dads' Days, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

48 | A Story of "Giving Up the Whys" with Terry and Joy Young

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Matt Young was a young man who loved the Lord and was mature beyond his years. He wanted to be a firefighter from the time he was a little boy, and he accomplished that dream and served his community faithfully for eight years. He married the love of his life and maintained a close and loving relationship with his parents and sisters. When he suddenly and inexplicably took his own life in May of 2013, his parents, Terry and Joy Young, were left with a lot of questions. Listen in to hear how God led them to "give up the whys" and trust Him.

The book Joy referred to is "Heaven" by Randy Alcorn. You can purchase books and materials through Randy's website by clicking HERE.

For information about the While We're Waiting support group led by Terry & Joy Young, as well as our other support group locations, click HERE.

Plan of salvation:

Realize that you are a sinner. No matter how good a life we try to live, we still fall miserably short of being a 'good person.' That's because we're all sinners. We all fall short of God's desire for us to be holy. The Bible says, 'No one is righteous - not even one' (Rom. 3:10 NLT). This is because we cannot become who we are supposed to be without Jesus Christ.

Recognize that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you. The Bible tells us, 'But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners' (Rom. 5:8 NLT). This is the good news, that God loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die in our place when we least deserved it.

Repent of your sin. The Bible tells us to 'repent therefore and be converted' (Acts 3:19). The word 'repent' means 'to change our direction in life.' Instead of running away from God, we can run toward him.

Receive Jesus into your life. Becoming a Christian is not merely believing some creed or going to church on Sundays. Becoming a Christian is allowing Christ himself to take residence in your life and heart. Jesus said, 'Behold, I stand at the door [of your life] and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in' (Rev. 3:20).

If you haven't ever invited Jesus into your life, pray a sincere prayer like this one:

'Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner. I believe you died for my sins. Righ

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

47 | Do You Want to be Healed?

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0500

The fifth chapter of John tells of an encounter between Jesus and a man who had been unable to walk for 38 years. Jesus asked the man a strange question: "Do you want to be healed?" Of course he did ... but he was unable to attain healing on his own. Jesus asked the man to take an action he was clearly incapable of ... and in that moment, He gave the man the ability to take that first trembling step toward healing. In today's episode, Jill discusses how we as grieving parents often seek to hold on to our pain, as it's a link to our child. She reminds us that though we will always have a very tender and painful place deep inside, we needn't live in misery for the rest of our lives. Abundant life is possible after child loss ... though it's certainly different from what we once thought an abundant life would represent. Because of Jesus ... and as He gives us the ability ... we too can pick up our beds and walk.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free faith-based retreats we provide for bereaved parents, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

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46 | A Story of Living "All In" with Sean and Heather Ellis

Wed, 26 May 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Michael Ellis was a compassionate, tenderhearted young man who lived "all in" for Jesus. In today's episode Jill talks with Michael's mom and dad, Sean and Heather Ellis, about their son's ATV accident that broke them to the core and the faithfulness and presence of God in the aftermath. They remind us that the more we're broken, the more we can experience the Lord in his fullness.

To find out more about our While We're Waiting Support Groups for Bereaved Parents, including the group facilitated by Sean & Heather Ellis and Jason & Robin Hargrove in the Memphis area, click HERE.

For more information about our free While We're Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents at The Country Place in Moscow, Tennessee, click HERE.

To see all of the locations of our While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents, click HERE.

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45 | My Joy Will Be Complete

Wed, 19 May 2021 02:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, Jill shares what she imagines it might be like when she gets to Heaven and sees her daughter Hannah again.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats for bereaved parents we offer around the country, click HERE.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

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44 | A Story of the Peace that Passes Understanding with Bob and Justine King

Wed, 12 May 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Josh King was the kind of friend everyone wants to have. He loved kids, he loved playing the guitar, and he loved singing, even though his mom affectionately describes him as "tone deaf". He battled anxiety and depression due to some challenging circumstances which ultimately culminated in him taking his own life in April of 2017. Join Jill for a conversation with his mom and dad, Justine and Bob, about their sons, life after suicide loss, and the peace that passes all understanding.

The While We're Waiting ministry hosts free faith-based weekend retreats specifically for parents whose children have died by suicide. For more information or to register, click HERE.

The While We're Waiting ministry is a 501(c)3 ministry and all donations are tax deductible. To make a donation, click HERE.

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43 | The Highest Form of Love

Wed, 05 May 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Mother's Day can be one of the hardest days of the year for a bereaved mom. What used to be a quiet holiday set aside to recognize and honor the mothers in our lives has become an overly commercialized nearly month-long event. It's inescapable! And the cheerful cries of "Happy Mother's Day!" can be brutal to a hurting mom's heart. In today's episode, Jill talks about her own experience with this holiday and shares a statement that changed her perspective to one of gratitude and hope.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

While We're Waiting is a 501(c)3 nonprofit ministry that is completely funded by donations. If you'd like to make a tax-deductible donation, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

42 | A Story of Living With An Open Palm with Don and Patsy Akin

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Today's conversation is surprisingly encouraging, even though Don and Patsy Akin have experienced the loss of all three of their sons ... one to murder, one to illness, and one to an accident. Our discussion ranges from issues of Don's alcoholism, to anger, to forgiveness, to the restoration of joy, to learning to live life with an open palm.

For more information about the GriefShare ministry, click HERE.

For more information about the Our Hearts Are Home ministry to bereaved parents, click HERE.

For more information about While We're Waiting and the free retreats we offer around the country for bereaved parents, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

41 | A Story of a Greater Purpose with Arlo and Capri Weiskopf

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Arlo and Capri Weiskopf are the parents of four children, including Amoss, who went to Heaven nearly fifteen years ago as a result of a tragic accident in the driveway of their home. Their story will speak to any parent who has felt they bear some responsibility for the death of their child. In our conversation, you will hear deep desperation, grace-filled forgiveness, unanswerable questions, deep faith, anchored hope, and renewed joy.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Support Groups, including the one led by the Weiskopfs in Maryland, click HERE.

For more information or to register for a free While We're Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents in Maryland, click HERE.

For additional information about ALL of our While We're Waiting Weekend locations, click HERE.

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40 | The Lord is Our Keeper

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Bereaved parents tend to be "keepers" ... keepers of time, keepers of lists, and keepers of our child's legacy. But all that keeping can sometimes make us grow weary. Thankfully, God also takes on the role of "keeper", and in today's episode, Jill shares some ways He keeps those who grieve close to His heart.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

39 | A Story of Sisters with Bethany Sullivan

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500

One of the most common topics that arises during our While We’re Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents is how we as bereaved parents can help our surviving children. When we are grieving so deeply ourselves, we can feel very ill-equipped to parent our children through their grief. Surviving siblings deal with a whole host of issues that we as their parents generally know nothing about. So today Jill welcomes a very special guest to talk about these things just in time for National Siblings Day … her daughter, Bethany. We pray that our conversation will be helpful to you whether you’re a grieving parent or a grieving sibling, and hopefully open up some avenues for communication.

Bethany is one of the moderators on our private Facebook group just for bereaved siblings. You can find that Facebook group HERE. Please do not request to join unless you are a bereaved sibling yourself ... Parents cannot join the group.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry for bereaved parents, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

38 | A Living Redeemer

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

For those of us who have experienced child loss, life hasn't turned out like we planned. We face great disappointment and overwhelming sorrow. Like Job, we may feel abandoned and alone. But we have hope because we have a living Redeemer!

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats we host for bereaved parents, click HERE.

If you'd like to know more about the decision Hannah made to "ask Jesus into her heart", please contact Jill by email at jill@whilewerewaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

37 | Feeling Abandoned?

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

The loss of a child can leave us feeling very alone ... like time has marched on and left us behind, like we've grown old before our time, like we'll never have joy again, like our opportunity to make good memories is gone forever, like the sun has set on our lives ... like even God has abandoned us. Today Jill shares some encouragement for those times when we're feeling a bit forsaken.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the free retreats for bereaved parents we offer, visit our website by clicking HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

36 | A Story of Abby and an Olive Branch with Dan and Kristin Naylor

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

When Kristin Naylor walked into her OB appointment three days before her scheduled C-section, she did not know that her precious daughter Abby was already in the arms of Jesus. In today's episode, Jill talks with Kristin and her husband Dan about life after stillbirth, pregnancy after loss, the immense value of a life no matter how brief, and holding on to hope and joy.

To visit the Naylor's Etsy shop, click HERE.

To learn more about the Star Legacy Foundation, click HERE.

To learn more about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents, click HERE.

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35 | What Am I Missing?

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0600

In today's episode, Jill considers the things we may be missing because we miss our children and concludes that she does not want to miss the life God has given her because she misses her daughter.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, please visit our website by clicking HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

34 | A Story of Rescue with Lisa Armstrong

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Jacob Laney was a young man with lots of interests -- cooking, traveling, athletics -- who was a self-described "Mama's Boy". He and his mom Lisa enjoyed an exceptionally close relationship and when his stepdad Miles came into his life at age seven, Jacob quickly accepted him as "Dad". When he died by suicide at the age of 19, it was completely unexpected, and left Lisa wondering how she could ever survive without him. Listen to our conversation to hear how God has brought healing in her life and brought their marriage relationship closer than ever before.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents, click HERE.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Support Groups for Bereaved Parents, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

33 | Eight Truths About Heaven

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0600

When a parent experiences the loss of a child, they usually develop a thirst for learning about Heaven. In today's episode, Jill shares eight truths about Heaven from Scripture. She also shares a portion of a blog post from Tim Challies, whose 21-year-old son recently went to Heaven, titled "The Only Tears in Heaven". The full article is available HERE.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

32 | A Story of an Earthquake with Carol Brown

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Every bereaved parent has experienced that moment when life split in two, as if a massive earthquake has permanently separated "before" from "after". Carol Brown's earthquake occurred in September of 1996, when her daughter Jackie suddenly went home to Heaven. Join Jill and Carol for a conversation filled with the wisdom that over two decades of grieving well can bring. Newly-bereaved parents in particular will find our conversation helpful as Carol shares very practical tips that she has learned in the dark.

For more information about While We're Waiting and the free retreats we offer for bereaved parents, click HERE.

For more information about GriefShare or to find a group in your area, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

31 | Ten Gifts in a Year of Cancer

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Jill recounts some special "gifts" her family received during the year that her 16-year-old daughter battled cancer as a reminder of what God can do with the loaves and fish we have to offer others.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the retreats we offer for bereaved parents, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

30 | A Story of "Another Amazing Day" with Lee and Heather Fox

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Trevor was a remarkable and gifted young man who knew Jesus but battled drug addiction, which ultimately took his life. In today's episode, Jill talks with his mom and dad, Lee and Heather Fox, about Trevor's unique personality, his passion for music, and his struggles with addiction. They share their own story of coming to faith in Christ and their assurance that Trevor is enjoying yet "another amazing day" in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Support Groups for Bereaved Parents around the country, including the one facilitated by the Foxes in Belleview, Florida, click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

29 | Church Is Hard

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0600

29. For many bereaved parents, going back to church after their child's death is very difficult. In today's episode, Jill discusses a few of the things that made church hard for her and concludes with some encouragement to "push through the hard" and return to fellowship with a group of believers.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and our bereaved parent retreats, visit our website by clicking HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

28 | Story of "Sterkte" with Mark and Margaret Franklin

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Ryan Franklin was a guy who enjoyed getting up every morning and being himself ... from his aviator sunglasses to his shoestring belts. A faithful husband and loving dad, he was committed to his family and his Lord. Today, Jill talks with his parents, Mark and Margaret, about their son's remarkable life, his sudden death, God's faithfulness in their journey, and "sterkte" ... God's strength.

If you are a bereaved parent, we invite you to join our closed Facebook group ("While We're Waiting - Support for Bereaved Parents") which you can find by clicking HERE.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Weekends like the one Mark and Margaret attended, please visit our website HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

27 | Why Am I Still Here?

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0600

The loss of a child can leave us feeling lost, empty, and broken ... wondering why we are still here when our precious child is gone. In today's episode, Jill shares some thoughts about the great value God places on our lives and how we can still have purpose, even in the wake of child loss.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the retreats for bereaved parents we offer, please visit our website HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

26 | A Story of God's Grace in a Ditch with Mike and Kim Canania

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0600

When Mike and Kim Canania were raising their children, they did not know the Lord, and were caught up in lifestyles of drug and alcohol addiction. Then their teenage son "Bubba" was involved in a fatal car accident and everything changed. Listen in as they share with Jill the story of Bubba's decision for Christ in his final moments and the eternal impact that decision has had on their family.

Kim is a representative for JBloom jewelry, which can be personalized with a loved one's fingerprint or handwriting. For more information about these special products, click HERE.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, including our retreats and support groups for bereaved parents, please click HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

25 | New Year's Resolutions for Bereaved Parents

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0600

As bereaved parents, we know that some dates will be difficult -- Christmas, our child's birthday or Heaven Day, Mother's Day and Father's Day -- but we are often completely caught off guard by how difficult it is to turn the calendar to a new year for the first time after our child goes to Heaven. In this episode, Jill shares some resolutions that may be helpful as we step into the new year.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, click here.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

24 | It's Not MY Birthday Anyway

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0600

After the loss of a child, a holiday like Christmas that once brought so much joy can become deeply painful. The family gatherings, brightly-lit decorations, and the gift giving make the absence of our child's presence all the more real. In today's episode, Jill encourages bereaved parents to view the holiday with a slightly different perspective.

"A Brokenhearted Night Before Christmas" was written by Karen Harmening in 2017 and can be found on her blog by following this link: https://listeningtohim.com/2017/12/16/brokenhearted-night-before-christmas/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

23 | A Story of Peace from Chaos with Bob and Susan Wathen

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0600

Hannah Wathen was a high school senior with a bright future ahead of her. She was a natural introvert with a brilliant sense of humor and an innate ability to identify and befriend those on the fringes. Her life's goal was to become a doctor, and she was just days away from graduation and heading off to college when she made an impulse decision to take her own life. Jill talks with her parents, Bob and Susan Wathen, about Hannah's life, her suicide, the sovereignty of God, and how He brought peace from unimaginable chaos.

The pamphlet the Wathens refer to in the interview is called "SOS: A Handbook for Survivors of Suicide" by Jeffrey Jackson, and is published by the American Association of Suicidology.

Information about the While We're Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents at Kinderhook Lodge in Barry, Illinois, is available HERE.

Information about our While We're Waiting support groups, including the one the Wathens lead in Hannibal, Missouri, is available HERE.

The Wathens refer to our closed While We're Waiting -- Support for Bereaved Parents Facebook group during our conversation. That group can be found by clicking HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

22 | Five Gifts to Unwrap at Christmas Time

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0600

The Christmas season is typically one of the most difficult times of the year for parents who have experienced the loss of a child ... and this year, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is compounding it even further. In today's episode, Jill helps us unwrap five gifts that were given when Jesus was born in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. Hopefully it will bring some encouragement during this hard season.

To learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents, visit our website by clicking HERE.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

21 | A Story of "The Life I Didn't Choose" with Melanie DeSimone

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0600

Dominic DeSimone was a young man with a smile that could light up a room. He was an active, athletic child who grew into a talented musician with the ability to play any stringed instrument and had a special gift for percussion. He was nearing the end of his second year of law school when he ran ahead to Heaven as a result of a motorcycle accident. In today's episode, Jill talks with his mom Melanie, who encourages thousands of bereaved parents daily through her blog, "The Life I Didn't Choose." Join us for a conversation about Dom, the blog, the upcoming holidays, and how we can live this life we didn't choose.

Melanie's blog can be found by clicking here.

Melanie refers to our closed While We're Waiting -- Support for Bereaved Parents Facebook group during our conversation. That group can be found by clicking here.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

20 | Ten Tips for Surviving the Holidays After Child Loss

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0600

After the loss of a child, the holiday season is incredibly difficult. Family gatherings magnify the absence of the child, holiday traditions that once brought joy are now fraught with pain and loss, tensions may arise among extended family members as everyone's emotions are raw, and Christmas shopping with one less person on the list is unspeakably painful. There is a certain expectation of how we are supposed to feel and behave during the holiday season, and when you've lost a child, it can be difficult (if not impossible) to muster up the emotional stamina to play that role. In today's episode, Jill shares a list of ten things that have been helpful to her family as they've maneuvered the last twelve holiday seasons since her daughter went to Heaven. Maybe you'll find something on the list that will be helpful to you.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

19 | A Story of Doing It Well with Jana Solhjem

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0600

Jeremiah Solhjem was a sweet and imaginative little boy who loved his family, his Action Bible, and his Legos. He was a kid who was content to stay in the background and let others take center stage. He had a lot of wisdom for a nine year old -- Just a week before he went to Heaven in an ATV accident, he told his sister, "Ya know, life is better when you do it well." In today's episode, Jill talks to JP's mom, Jana, about life after child loss, maneuvering the upcoming holidays, and what it means to trust in a God who keeps His promises.

Do It Well website: https://www.doitwell.org
Do It Well Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lifedoitwell

Website link for the While We're Waiting Weekend for Bereaved Parents in Minnesota: https://www.whilewerewaiting.org/locations/minnesota

Fargo, North Dakota, While We're Waiting Support Group for Bereaved Parents Information:
Typically meets the third Thursday of every month at
Valley Christian Counseling, 1112 Nodak Drive, Fargo, ND
For more information, contact Jana at jsolhjem@rrt.net.

Here's a link to the type of "chair picture frame" Jana refers to in this episode ❤️: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Q3ZEIOK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_PpsTFb7G8E75G

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

18 | A Story of a Happy Heart with Rhyl Venning

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0600

Kari-Lee Venning was a young woman who loved Jesus, dancing, swimming, and spending time at the beach. She traveled the world seeking adventure, visiting 38 countries in six years after she completed high school. Many of those who saw her living life to the full were not even aware of her daily battle with cystic fibrosis. In today's episode, Jill talks with Kari's mum, Rhyl, about her remarkable daughter and her experience with grief since Kari's homegoing six years ago.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

17 | You Might Be A Bereaved Parent

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0600

Jeff Foxworthy rose to fame by performing a comedy routine titled, "You Might Be a Redneck." In today's solo episode, Jill expands on that theme with a list of things that indicate "You Might Be a Bereaved Parent." The list starts out with negatives, but ends on a hopeful note.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry and the retreats and services we offer for bereaved parents, visit our website at www.whilewerewaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

16 | A Story of Jesus Weeping with Zac and Shelby Snow

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Zac and Shelby Snow were thrilled to discover that they were expecting their son Landon just a few months after their wedding. They prepared a nursery, purchased a car seat, and even bought a larger vehicle to accommodate their growing family. But a prenatal test revealed some issues with Landon's development, and rather than bring him home to that new nursery, they had to release him to Heaven. Landon's now 4-year-old little brother Drew was born within that same year and Maci Jae came along a few years later, and these two little ones fill their lives with joy. Between Drew and Maci, Zac and Shelby lost two more babies in early gestation. Their faith was tested through these experiences, but they have been comforted by the knowledge that Jesus weeps with them.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

15 | Living in the Temporary

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

In today's solo episode, Jill compares life as a grieving parent to a ride on a roller coaster. She reminds her listeners that roller coaster rides are temporary and points us to "the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God." (Hebrews 11:10)

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, please visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

14 | A Story of Two Roads with Stephen and Linda Quinn

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Samantha Quinn was a smart and funny child with an infectious smile and a remarkable memory for song lyrics. She loved horses and successfully participated in hunter jumper competitions. She was a joy to her parents and older siblings. But in her early adolescence, she began to struggle with mental health issues which seemed to intensify as she grew older. Her parents Stephen and Linda walked this difficult journey with her and sought out the best treatment options available. At the age of 20, Samantha's earthly life ended when she died by suicide, and her new life in Heaven began. In this episode, Jill talks with Sam's mom and dad about the chaotic nature of mental illness, issues related to suicide, how their faith in God has been impacted by this experience, and their choice between two roads set before them.

For more information about our While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents, please visit our website at https://www.whilewerewaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

13 | Oh, The Things People Say

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Parents who have experienced the loss of a child are often hurt by the things well-meaning people say in an earnest attempt to comfort them. This is always one of our most popular topics of discussion at our While We're Waiting Weekends, as it seems every bereaved parent has a story of a particularly hurtful or inappropriate thing that has been said to them. Even Job had "miserable comforters"! In this episode, Jill discusses some of those comments, and shares how we as bereaved parents might handle them. She closes by reminding us that God can also use people to bless and encourage us with their words.

To learn more about our While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents in Arkansas, Oregon, Maryland, Alabama, Nevada, or Arizona, visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

12 | A Story of A Race Not Chosen with Michael and Michelle Moore

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Joshua Moore was a young man with a bold faith, who was affectionately known as "The Chaplain" by his high school band director. He never missed an opportunity to share Jesus with those around him. One evening he went out for a run and never came back home. In this episode, Jill talks with his parents, Michael and Michelle, about the events of that night and the days that followed, the grief they've experienced in his loss, and how God has redeemed this race they would never have chosen for His glory.

Michelle hosts While We're Waiting Mini-Retreats for Bereaved Moms at her home in Springdale, Arkansas, from time to time throughout the year. You can read more about these events which are specifically for moms who have lost children (in both Springdale and Hot Springs, Arkansas) by clicking the following link: https://whilewerewaiting.org/services/retreats/mini-retreat-for-bereaved-moms/

Michael and Michelle host a monthly support group meeting for bereaved moms and dads at their home in Springdale, Arkansas. More information about those meetings is available here: https://whilewerewaiting.org/services/support-groups/

Michelle is a gifted writer who blogs on grief-related topics. You can find her blog here: https://witheyesonthecross.home.blog/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

11 | Fourteen Things I Wish I'd Known Sooner

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

In today's solo episode, Jill shares a list of 14 things she wishes she had known early on after the loss of her 17-year-old daughter to brain cancer. Whether you've just begun your own grief journey or are many years down the road, hopefully you can find some encouragement from this episode.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

10 | A Story of "IGBOK" with Rex and Mary Jones

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Zach Jones was a young man with a promising military career whose life was cut short by an accidental drug overdose. In today's episode, Jill talks with his mom and dad, Rex and Mary, about Zach's distinguished military service, his struggles with an addiction to prescription drugs, how his life was not defined by his death, and how, because of Jesus, they have the assurance that "IGBOK" -- It's Gonna Be OK.

While We're Waiting has a private Facebook group just for bereaved siblings. You must be a bereaved sibling to join! It can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WWW.BereavedSiblings

Click the following link to learn more about our newest retreat location at the Jones's home in Arizona: https://whilewerewaiting.org/state/arizona/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

9 | Ten Things Bereaved Parents Wish You Knew

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, Jill shares ten things that bereaved parents wish you knew. This is a podcast for those who love bereaved parents and want to "be there" for them, but just don't know how. Of course, everyone grieves differently, and someone else's top ten list may be different ... but these items have been compiled from personal experience and conversations with hundreds of bereaved parents over the past decade. Hopefully you will find it helpful as you minister to hurting hearts.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

8 | A Story of a Life Redeemed with Scott and Karen Harmening

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Sarah Harmening was a shy, quiet, 17-year-old girl with a maturity beyond her years. She had a strong faith in God and felt called by him to serve on a short-term mission trip to Botswana. On the way to the airport, her life was taken in a tragic bus crash. In this episode, Jill talks with her parents, Scott and Karen, about the events of that day, what Sarah had been journaling as she rode the bus, dealing with the publicity surrounding the incident, and what they've learned about God, grief, hope, and joy since that time.

Scott and Karen Harmening host While We're Waiting Weekends for Bereaved Parents at their home in Huntsville, Alabama. You can read more about these events on our website by following this link: https://whilewerewaiting.org/locations/the-harmening-home-in-huntsville-alabama/

The Harmenings also host monthly While We're Waiting Support Group meetings in Huntsville. You can read find out more about these meetings (and the locations of our other WWW support groups) by clicking here: https://whilewerewaiting.org/services/support-groups/

Karen is a gifted writer and blogs about her family's testimony and other grief-related topics at https://listeningtohim.com/

The Harmenings have remained involved in ministry to Botswana. You can read more about this at the following links:

https://www.imb.org/2017/10/26/serve-like-sarah/

https://www.imb.org/2020/03/17/daughters-legacy-continues/

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

7 | Joy in the Midst of Sorrow

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jill talks about how joy can exist even in the midst of great sorrow. After the loss of a child, we may feel that joy is something we will never experience again ... and it can certainly be elusive. But when we understand what true joy is ... that it's not based in our circumstances but rather in the person of Jesus Christ ... that makes all the difference. And when we see that its actually biblical for joy and sorrow to co-exist, it frees us to experience both.

Sources quoted in this podcast:

"A Grief Observed" by C.S. Lewis
"Holding On to Hope" by Nancy Guthrie
"Prayers of Hope for the Brokenhearted" by Jill Kelly

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

6 | A Story of Batman and Robin with Bobby and Amy Smith

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Joel Smith was just three years old when he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. His parents Bobby and Amy join me on the podcast today to share the story of his courageous battle, including his Make-A-Wish adventure as the Caped Crusader. They share what they've learned about grief, faith, and joy over the past nine years. I believe you'll be encouraged by our conversation.

Visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org to learn more about the While We're Waiting ministry and our retreats for bereaved parents.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

5 | Faith That Has Been Shaken

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jill addresses a common question asked by bereaved parents ... "How do you keep from losing your faith?" She discusses how easy it is to trust our feelings and emotions rather than the truth of God's Word.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

4 | A Story of a LifeSong with Landen and Missy Holmes

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 15:00:00 -0500

Ten years have passed since five-year-old Leightyn Nan Holmes went to sing and play in Heaven with Jesus. She dreamed of being a princess and was eager to begin Kindergarten at the time of her homegoing. Today I talk with Leightyn's mom and dad, Landen and Missy, about their experience as bereaved parents from the perspective that a decade brings. Join us to hear how Leightyn's Lifesong (and their own) still sings!

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

3 | A Story of Redemption - Navy SEAL Adam Brown

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 14:00:00 -0500

By God's grace, Adam Brown overcame drug addiction to become a member of Navy SEAL Team SIX. In this episode, Jill talks to Adam's parents, Larry and Janice Brown, about Adam's growing up years, his struggles with drugs as a young man, his quest to become a member of the elite Navy SEALs, and his death in the Hindu Kush mountains of Afghanistan in March of 2010. They share how his life and death have impacted their faith and their family, and discuss how God has carried them through the last ten years.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

2 | A Story of a Storm - Hannah Sullivan

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 13:00:00 -0500

When Hannah Sullivan was diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer at the age of 16, she accepted it as "her storm" and faced her battle with grace and without fear. Today I talk with Hannah's dad, my husband, about his experience with child loss from a dad's perspective.

For more information about the While We're Waiting ministry, visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)

1 | While We're Waiting - An Introduction

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0500

In this introductory episode, I share my personal story of the loss of my 17-year-old daughter Hannah to cancer, the ministry born out of that experience, and a preview of future episodes. To learn more about our faith-based ministry to bereaved parents, click the link below:

http://www.whilewerewaiting.org

I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message! (Though I read every message, I am unable to respond through this format.)