People often ask why I share our story. Why I blog. Over the last year that reason has become crystal clear. My mission is defined. Though there are times I question it. Is it too sad? Will people think all I do is grieve? Will people still want to read?

My mission is to openly share as much of my grief journey as possible. The reason I do this is to help others in the same situation know they are not alone. It is a really lonely journey. One that no one can understand until it happens to them. My sharing is also to help educate. How to support someone going through a loss. Opening a door to what is typically hidden from the world. I want to help make people more comfortable with the idea of death. It is such a huge part of life. However, the moment a bereaved parent mentions their dead child people can’t get away fast enough. I hope that by sharing I can make people feel more at ease in those situations and be a better support.

I receive a constant flow of feedback from readers. This is my validation to keep going. That what I have to say is adding value and helping people. I am consistently blown away! So today I wanted to share some of that feedback with you. I love hearing from readers, especially when it reiterates the importance of the message I am sharing.

These are just a few of the recent emails and messages I have received:

1. I’m sorry but your grief has made me a better Mom.
2. The reason I signed up for your email list, if I am to be completely honest, was for selfish reasons. Because I get caught up too often in the mundane of the day to day and get annoyed sometimes by my kids “bad behavior”, I felt I could use the occasional reminder to be grateful for their presence. To not take it for granted. That I could have everything taken from me so quickly, just like you. I want to read what you write, in order to re prioritize what is actually important and let the stuff go that doesn’t really matter. Because of your experience, I “breathe him in” just a little bit longer during quiet times together, and squeeze a little tighter during hugs. I try to let go of the small stuff, and focus on the fact that he is here with me, and how lucky I am that he is.
3. I just lost my 10 month old baby to meningitis. I stumbled upon your blog and your story was amazing to read. I cannot tell you how much your blog has helped me in just the last day. Thank you for sharing.
4. I admire what you are doing to help others. My son Jeremy died at 16. I am trying to help people also. Your writing is beautiful. You should write a book. We need more books on living after loss.

I have a goal for 2017 to begin a new series. I want to give other bereaved mom’s a platform to share their stories. I hear them all the time and believe they need to be shared. Stories of loss and life after. Beautiful testaments to love. I hope to feature some of those stories here to continue my mission.

I want to inspire parents to be in the moment. To not get caught up in the day-to-day and keep focus on what is really important in life. Help them to connect with their kids and make memories. Put the focus back on family.

I want to thank you all for your support and love! I hope you will feel inspired to help spread these messages and continue reading. As this little blog grows, I want to reach more people. Increase awareness. Inspire others.