Circle Back: A Love Story, Cancer, and What Grief Teaches Us

Episode Description Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HASF2020 Camo Hat Club: https://halfasorrow.org/the-camo-hat-club-half-a-sorrow/ View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bNErYV30LksTim's 2025 Second of the Day Video: https://vimeo.com/1151306034?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci Tim's Wife Amy: https://vimeo.com/1089717149?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci In this special episode of It's a Tough Subject, Dennis is joined by an unexpected guest, our producer Tim Cicciarelli, who steps out from behind the curtain to share his raw, honest grief journey after losing his wife, Amy, on May 26, 2025. Tim and Dennis talk about love, loss, the "year of firsts," and what grief really looks like in real life: the fog, the triggers, the regrets, the rituals, and the moments of unexpected comfort. Tim shares the remarkable love story that brought him and Amy back together, how cancer reshaped their lives, and how he's learning to carry both grief and gratitude at the same time. This conversation is a reminder that while this podcast began with suicide loss, it's ultimately about grief, mental health, healing, and connection for anyone navigating heartbreak. Takeaways Grief is a universal experience that transcends specific circumstances. The journey of grief can be both brutal and beautiful. Shared stories of love and loss can foster connection and healing. Finding signs from lost loved ones can provide comfort. Music often serves as a powerful tool for processing grief. Creating memories through video can help preserve the essence of loved ones. Regret is a common part of the grieving process, but it can be managed. Community support is vital in navigating grief. Humor can coexist with grief, providing relief and connection. Gratitude for the time spent with loved ones can help in the healing process.