Episode 4: Liz Wolczko, Grieving After Losing a Child

Please note that today’s episode is of a sensitive nature. If you have recently suffered the loss of a loved one and aren’t ready for this conversation, consider listening to this episode at a later date. Liz Wolczko is a bereaved mom, sibling and daughter. Her journey with grief began in 1974 with the death of her oldest brother John. Liz’s 26-year-old daughter and only child, Joana, died in 2008, the same year she lost her sister-in-law and Mother. Liz and her mother Sally Ketchum, were pioneers in the Hospice movement, creating the first Hospice in Maryland in 1979, that was also the third in the US. Liz didn’t stop there – she was part of creating one of the first Hospices in Southern New Hampshire. As a Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, she recruited and trained volunteers to sit with dying patients. Shortly after her daughter Joana’s death, Liz became a member of Compassionate Friends, a National non-profit support group for bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents. After benefiting as a member, she became a Facilitator for both the Nashua and Manchester, NH Chapters and Treasurer for the Manadnock Chapter in Peterborough, NH. In 2023, Compassionate Friends afforded Liz the opportunity become a Grief Educator, certified by world-renowned Grief Expert, David Kessler. Liz went on to study with Emmy-nominated, Public Speaking Coach Rachel Hanfling in her signature program, “Own the Power of Your Story”. Next up for Liz – turning our grief-denying society into a grief-accepting society by creating a program for high school and college students. To collaborate with Liz, book her for speaking engagements or to become a client in her private Grief Educator practice, contact her at [email protected]. Follow @LizKetchumWolczko on Facebook and Instagram.