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In this episode, Laura shares how to handle milestones after child loss, gently walking grieving parents through the moments that can feel the hardest to face. From birthdays and holidays to unexpected reminders that take your breath away, these “milestones” are not celebrations, but the tender and often painful markers of grief. With compassion and understanding, Laura reframes what milestones mean, reminding listeners that while we never get over them, we do get through them, and over time, they become part of how we learn to live again. Drawing from personal experience and the shared journey of other bereaved parents, this episode offers practical and heartfelt encouragement for coping with grief milestones after losing a child. With a faith-centered perspective, she reminds listeners that they are not alone, and that even in the most difficult moments, there is growth, grace, and the steady presence of God walking with them. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to get Footsteps of Hope by Sara Nelson. (Affiliate link: GPS Hope may earn a small commission from your purchase.) Click here for information on the GPS Hope & Healing Cruise. Click here to find out more about the word pareavor. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Leah Van Emmerik was born on May 13 and is forever 39. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.      

Mother’s Day can be one of the most painful and complicated days of the year for a grieving mom. In this episode, Laura speaks honestly about how to handle Mother’s Day after losing a child, acknowledging the mix of love, grief, pressure, and longing that so many bereaved mothers carry. With gentle encouragement and real-life understanding, she reminds you that there is no right or wrong way to walk through this day, and that your motherhood has not ended. If Mother’s Day feels heavy, this episode offers compassionate support and permission to do what your heart needs. Through personal reflection and a heartfelt letter to her child, Laura helps you find a way to navigate Mother’s Day after child loss with honesty, grace, and hope, acknowledging that your love continues and your child is always part of who you are.   Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to start Reflections of Hope – a full year of daily encouragement. Click here for information on the GPS Hope & Healing Cruise. Click here to sponsor an episode for your child. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Milo Kostrna bloomed on earth to blossom in heaven on May 3. Lisa Nana Yaa Aning (Monica) was born on May 4 and is forever 2. Adam Walker was born on May 6 and is forever 28. Kaz Mcclure was born on May 8 and is forever 30. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.      

As we continue exploring what it means to be trying to trust God after the death of your child, this episode shifts into what God is doing within us through our suffering. While the pain never feels “good,” Scripture shows us that God is still at work bringing maturity, strength, and a deeper foundation in Him. Based on 1 Peter 5:10–11, we talk about how God gently rebuilds us by perfecting, establishing, strengthening, and settling us, even when part of us feels forever missing. If you are wondering how to keep going or what healing can even look like now, this episode offers quiet hope and truth for the road ahead. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to see if the GPS Hope Grief Cruise will be sailing and join us on this journey of hope. Click here to support the podcast and join Laura on Patreon for extra content Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Michael Patnaude was born on April 27 and is forever 21. Christi Gayheart was born on April 29 and is forever 49. Eric Merciers was born on May 1 and is forever 38. Aaron Opoku was born on May 1 and is forever 27. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.  

When you are trying to trust God after the death of your child, it can feel like everything you believed has been shaken to the core. In this deeply personal episode, Laura shares part of her own story and the questions that rise when suffering doesn’t make sense. Together, we gently look at what Scripture says about pain and how God’s grace and glory are still present, even in the darkest places. This episode is rooted in 1 Peter 5:10–11, reminding us that even after we have suffered for a while, God’s heart toward us has not changed. If your faith feels fragile or uncertain right now, you are not alone, and this conversation is for you. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to get your copy of Reflections of Hope: May Edition. Click here to start Reflections of Hope – a full year of daily encouragement, one day at a time Click here to get the details for the Bereaved Mother’s Day Luncheon. Click here to register for the Bereaved Mother’s Day Luncheon. Click here to support the podcast and join Laura on Patreon for extra content The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.  

How to cope with your child’s birthday after child loss is something every grieving parent eventually faces, yet nothing can fully prepare your heart for that day. In this episode, Laura gently walks with you through the emotions that can rise as your child’s birthday approaches—the memories, the longing, and the questions about whether or how to acknowledge the day. With compassionate, faith-centered encouragement, she reminds you that your child’s life still matters and that remembering them is meaningful. As you consider how to cope with your child’s birthday after child loss, you’ll also hear simple, heartfelt ideas from other bereaved parents for honoring your child in ways that feel right for you. Whether the day is filled with tears, quiet reflection, or small acts of remembrance, you are not alone. This episode offers gentle reassurance that there is no “right” way, only your way of continuing to love your child. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to start Reflections of Hope – a full year of daily encouragement, one day at a time Click here to sponsor an episode for your child, such a meaningful way to share hope and encouragement with others. Click here to read about Becca’s journey as shared by Laura from childhood cancer to her heart issues leading to her passing. Click here to find out why Laura keeps using the word “pareavor? Click here to support the podcast and join Laura on Patreon for extra content Click here to listen to I Remember Well, since I will be playing the song If this episode spoke to you, please follow the podcast and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help others find hope   Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Colby Lewis was born on April 12 and is forever 20. Becca Diehl Howard was born13 on April  and is forever 29. Jodie Fuller was born on April 14 and is forever 37. Briana Martinez was born on April 17 and is forever 17. Sawyer Dirmeier was born on April 17 and is forever 18. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.  

After the death of a child, many grieving parents struggle with something they don’t expect, which is extreme brain fog. In this episode, Laura gently talks about foggy brain after child loss, including the forgetfulness, confusion, and mental exhaustion that can linger for years. If you’ve ever wondered why you can’t think clearly or feel like your mind just isn’t working the way it used to, you are not alone. With honesty, personal experience, and biblical encouragement, this episode explores why grief affects your mind and memory, while offering hope for the healing process. You’ll be reminded to give yourself grace, take one small step at a time, and speak truth over your thoughts as God slowly begins to lift the fog. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to start Reflections of Hope – a full year of daily encouragement, one day at a time Click here to explore Hope merchandise – including t-shirts, hoodies, and more Click here to support the podcast and join Laura on Patreon for extra content Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Amie Bichard was born on April 5 and is forever 45. Eric Scott was born on April 6 and is forever 30. David J Spinnanger was born on April 9 and is forever 19. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.  

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Turning Pain into Peace, Laura sits down with Angela Alexander to share a story marked by unimaginable loss and remarkable faith. After enduring multiple tragedies, including the devastating loss of her two young sons in a car accident, Angela opens her heart to reveal how God met her in the depths of grief and began a journey of healing. Her story is not one of avoiding pain, but of walking through it and discovering that even in the darkest places, peace is possible. As they talk, the conversation gently unfolds into what it means to begin turning pain into peace; not through quick answers, but through surrender, forgiveness, and a deep, personal relationship with God. Angela shares practical and spiritual insights that helped her move from overwhelming grief into a place of purpose, offering hope to bereaved parents who may feel stuck in that suffocating darkness. This episode is a reminder that while the pain of child loss never fully disappears, God can meet us there and lead us into a life that holds both sorrow and peace. A sister, an Air Force Reserve retiree, a wife, a mother, an inspirational speaker, and now an author and executive producer of her own documentary film. She is the narrator of her autobiography, Miracles in Action: Turning Pain into Power and Grief into Peace. Rather than succumbing to darkness and despair after facing continuous hardship and loss, she chose to find strength and inspire others facing similar challenges, guided by God himself. Angela has been actively speaking at ceremonies in churches, retreats, and conferences to inspire and encourage people to stay hopeful and never give up. (Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.)  Links Mentioned in this episode: To connect with Angela Alexander: miraclesinaction.com Click here to get The Bible’s Grieving Parents Click here to get The Bible’s Grieving Parents and Companion Journal Click here to get My Grief Journey Coloring Book and Journal for Kids To support this podcast and, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content, visit us on Patreon. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Jonda Steinkamp was born on April 2 and is forever 4.5 months.  Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.  

For grieving parents, heaven is no longer just something we believe in—it becomes deeply personal. When your child is there, heaven feels closer in a way you never expected, yet the pain of missing them here remains just as real. In this episode, Laura gently shares five heartfelt truths about heaven that can bring comfort, even in the middle of deep sorrow. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about where your child is, longed more to see them than anything else, or wondered how to hold onto hope while living with their absence, this conversation will meet you right where you are. As we shift our focus from where our children are not to where they are, we begin to see that while our pain is deep, the glory they are experiencing is beyond comparison—and that can bring a quiet sense of peace to our hearts.   Links Mentioned in this episode: Reflections of Hope: Daily Readings for Bereaved Parents Click here to register for the Bereaved Mother’s Day Luncheon. Click here to get your copy of The Bible’s Grieving Parents and Companion Journal. Click here to get your copy of Reflections of Hope: Daily Readings for Bereaved Parents To support this podcast and, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content, visit us on Patreon.   Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Jeremy Capots was born on March 26 and is forever 47. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.  

After the death of a child, many grieving parents struggle to understand God’s ways. Questions about why tragedy happens and how a loving God could allow such deep loss can shake even a strong faith. In this episode, Laura gently speaks to bereaved parents who are wrestling with these difficult questions, sharing encouragement about trusting God even when His ways don’t make sense. Through Scripture and compassionate insight, this episode reminds listeners that faith does not require having all the answers. Many people in the Bible experienced profound suffering, yet discovered God’s presence and strength in the middle of it. If you are struggling to trust God after the death of your child, this conversation offers comfort and hope, reminding you that God sees your pain and walks with you through every step of your grief journey. Links Mentioned in this episode: Reflections of Hope: Daily Readings for Bereaved Parents Get your free copy of Rebuilding Your Life: A Gentle Guide Toward Hope and Healing After Child Loss The Bible’s Grieving Parents and Companion Journal To support this podcast and, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content, visit us on Patreon.   Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Matthew Branca was born on March 15 and is forever 23. Rohit Matthew was born on March 16 and is forever 23. Joey Miller was born on March 17 and is forever 48. Daniel Wilson was born on March 21 and is forever 30. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In this episode, Laura talks with bereaved mom Jody Hudson, whose daughter Alex died at the age of 22 after a long battle with undiagnosed Lyme disease. Jody shares the heartbreaking journey of watching her daughter suffer through years of unanswered medical questions and treatments, and the deep grief that followed Alex’s death. Yet in the midst of unimaginable loss, Jody made a conscious decision not to allow grief to define her identity, but instead to seek God’s direction for how to move forward.  Through faith, honest conversations with God, and a desire to honor Alex’s life, Jody found purpose in helping others, including starting a foundation to support Lyme disease patients. Her story offers encouragement for grieving parents who feel lost in the darkness, reminding them that while grief is real and lasting, it does not have to define their future. With God’s help, it is possible to carry our children with us while still finding meaning, hope, and purpose again.  Jody Hudson is a faith-filled mother, author, and speaker who shares hope from the depths of loss. After walking alongside her daughter Alex through years of medical uncertainty (which was correctly diagnosed as Lyme disease in 2017), Jody now speaks honestly about grief, identity, and choosing how we show up after life-altering loss. She is the author of My Promise to Alex, an award-winning memoir woven with themes of faith, resilience, and a mother’s enduring love. Jody encourages grieving parents to trust God, move forward with purpose, and remember that grief may shape us, but it does not define us.  (Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.) Links Mentioned in this episode: Jody’s website and book: My Promise to Alex: Through Pain Comes Purpose Reflections of Hope: Daily Readings for Bereaved Parents Get your free copy of Rebuilding Your Life: A Gentle Guide Toward Hope and Healing After Child Loss To support this podcast and, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content, visit us on Patreon.   Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Jeremiah Wofford was born on March 9 and is forever 44. Steven Kowalewski was born on March 11 and is forever 28. Quintin T. Flowers was born on March 12 and is forever 54. Kirsten Brown was born on March 12 and is forever 25. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In this tender episode, Laura welcomes Ashley to share the story of her daughter, Bridget, who was stillborn at 24 weeks after a complicated pregnancy.  Ashley speaks candidly about the trauma of delivering a baby who never cried, the sacred hours they were able to hold her, and the heartbreak of leaving the hospital without her. She also addresses the unexpected layers of grief that follow pregnancy loss—returning to an empty nursery, physical reminders like milk coming in, and the deep struggle with self-blame, offering reassurance that these painful realities are both common and valid. Out of that sorrow, Ashley describes how surrendering her pain to Jesus transformed her faith and eventually led to the ministry of Bridget’s Cradles and her book, Cradled in Hope. The conversation explores biblical lament, holding both joy and grief at the same time, resting in God’s sovereignty, and finding healing through Christ-centered support. With honesty and hope, Ashley reminds listeners that grieving with hope means trusting in eternity while allowing Jesus to walk closely with us in the present pain. Ashley Opliger is the USA Today bestselling author of Cradled in Hope and the founder and executive director of Bridget’s Cradles, a national nonprofit providing hope and healing to more than 30,000 bereaved families each year in over 1,600 hospitals across all 50 states. She hosts the award-winning Cradled in Hope podcast and is a sought-after speaker and writer. Ashley also leads in-person and online support groups and organizes Wave of Light, an annual remembrance event held on Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. She lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband and two sons.  (Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.)  Links Mentioned in this episode: Learn more about Ashley at AshleyOpliger.com and BridgetsCradles.com. Send email to laura@gpshope with Bridget in the subject line for book drawing The Bible’s Grieving Parents paperback and Companion Journal are now available; order now on Amazon or directly from GPS Hope. Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Click here to receive a Weekly Word of Hope from Laura. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Miesha Grimes was born on March 1 and is forever 24, Patrick Palazzo was born on March 2 and is forever 24. Aaron Wright was born on March 3 and is forever 32. Courtney Harris was born on March 4 and is forever 34. Jonathan Van Verdegem was born on March 6 and is forever 19. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

After the death of a child, the darkness can feel suffocating. In this deeply personal episode, Laura shares from her own journey of losing her daughter, Becca. The panic attacks, the desperate prayers and the overwhelming thoughts told her that she would never survive this kind of pain.  When everything inside us says life will never be worth living again, how do we begin to move forward? Rooted in Romans 12:2, this conversation gently explores how transformation begins in the mind, even when the heart feels completely shattered. With both biblical truth and insights from neuroscience, this episode addresses how repeated thoughts can shape beliefs and identity, and how intentional, faith-filled shifts in thinking can begin creating space for light. Renewing your mind after child loss is not about denying grief or minimizing love; it is about challenging the lies that keep grieving parents trapped in despair and learning that it is our love, not the pain, that keeps us connected to our child. With deeply heart-felt compassion and clarity, Laura offers encouragement that, with God’s help, it is possible to move forward without leaving our child behind. Links Mentioned in this episode: The paperback and Companion Journal are now available for orders on the GPS Hope webstore, along with the free gift of My Grief Journey when ordered in February. Click here to order. (They are both also available on Amazon.) Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Click here to receive a Weekly Word of Hope from Laura. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Mark Patrick King II was born on February 22 and is forever 29. Dharahan Walker was born on February 23 and is forever 31. Nolan Sanders was born on February 24 and is forever 28. Paul Huprich was born on February 24 and is forever 19. Ian Rodriguez was born on February 26 and is forever 33. Dylan Paul Yancey Clarke was born on February 26 and is forever 17. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

What does it look like to cling to God after the death of a child, when the pain feels suffocating, forgiveness feels impossible, and trust feels fragile? In this powerful continuation of Laura’s conversation with Linda Dillow, they explore the remaining heart skills that help grieving parents hold on to God and not give up. They talk honestly about lament as worship in a minor key, choosing trust over fear, the ongoing act of forgiveness (even when it must be repeated again and again), finding encouragement in God’s presence, and allowing praise to slowly become the language of a surrendered heart. If you are walking through child loss and wondering how to keep going, this episode will gently remind you that you are not expected to “get over” your grief. This is a journey taken one step, one breath at a time. God meets you in the mess, in the anger, in the questions, and invites you to experience His love in a deeper way than head knowledge alone. You may not know what tomorrow holds. But you can learn, even in grief, to trust the One who holds tomorrow. Linda’s new book is Hope for my Hurting Heart. She is also the author of several bestselling books, including Calm My Anxious Heart, Satisfy My Thirsty Soul and Intimate Issues. Linda and her husband, Jody, ministered in the former East European Communist countries and in Asia for eighteen years, training the leadership of the church. They have four grown children (one in heaven) and ten amazing grandchildren. Linda loves to encourage women to hope in God and trust in His faithfulness! (Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.)  Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to preorder The Bible’s Grieving Parents paperback and Companion Journal on the GPS Hope webstore. Order in February and receive a free My Grief Journey. Also available on Amazon starting February 19th. Click here to order Linda’s book Hope for My Hurting Heart.  (Note: This is an affiliate link, which means a small portion of your purchase price will go to GPS Hope.) Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Click here to receive a Weekly Word of Hope from Laura. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Sean Kraus was born on February 19 and is forever 24. Jason Zimdars was born on February 20 and is forever 35. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

In this first of a two-part conversation, Laura sits down with Linda Dillow to explore the heart behind her book “Hope for My Hurting Heart” and the personal losses that shaped it, including the death of her daughter, Joy. Together they begin unpacking the first three of eight “heart skills” designed to help hurting hearts cling to God and not give up.  As they discuss loss, Linda shares how grief must be faced rather than resisted, drawing from her own experiences of multiple life-altering losses. She offers gentle wisdom on endurance, perspective, and allowing pain to become a transforming work in God’s hands, setting the stage for part two of this rich and hope-filled discussion. Linda’s new book is Hope for my Hurting Heart. She is also the author of several bestselling books, including Calm My Anxious Heart, Satisfy My Thirsty Soul and Intimate Issues. Linda and her husband, Jody, ministered in the former East European Communist countries and in Asia for eighteen years, training the leadership of the church. They have four grown children (one in heaven) and ten amazing grandchildren. Linda loves to encourage women to hope in God and trust in His faithfulness! (Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.)  Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to order Linda’s book Hope for My Hurting Heart.  (Note: This is an affiliate link, which means a small portion of your purchase price will go to GPS Hope.)\ Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Click here to receive a Weekly Word of Hope from Laura. Coming soon: The Bible’s Grieving Parents paperback and Companion Journal. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Brenton Smith was born on February 10 and is forever 24. Gage Purcell was born on February 10 and is forever 11. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.      

When God feels silent after the death of a child, many grieving parents wonder if their faith has failed, or if God has stepped away. In this tender and honest episode, Laura speaks to pareavors (parents bereaved of their child) who love God yet feel disconnected, angry, or unable to sense His presence in the depths of grief. Through real words from grieving parents and gentle spiritual reflection, this conversation offers space for honesty, lament, and the possibility of encountering God again; not through answers, but through His quiet presence within. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to grab a copy of The Bible’s Grieving Parents eBook and find comfort in God’s Word for your grieving heart. Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Click here to receive a Weekly Word of Hope from Laura. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Josh Peterson was born on February 2 and is forever 35. Ava Shaw was born on February 4 and is forever 20. Rose Elizabeth Charlton was born on February 5 and is forever 27. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.      

After the death of a child, grief can feel suffocating and impossible to escape. Many bereaved parents find themselves overwhelmed by painful thoughts that deepen the darkness and make it hard to imagine ever breathing freely again. In this episode, Laura explores how your thoughts affect grief after the death of a child, and why what happens in our minds matters so much in the healing journey. With honesty, compassion, and faith-centered encouragement, Laura shares how anger, bitterness, and false beliefs can quietly take root—and how, with God’s help, those thought patterns can begin to change. While we cannot control every thought that enters our mind, we can learn how to recognize which thoughts are pulling us deeper into despair and which ones can gently guide us toward hope. This episode offers reassurance, understanding, and a reminder that even in the darkest places of grief, you are not alone—and that healing can begin one thought at a time. Links Mentioned in this episode: Click here to get your copy of Reflections of Hope Click here to grab a copy of The Bible’s Grieving Parents eBook and find comfort in God’s Word for your grieving heart. Sorry, When Tragedy Strikes Kindle version is no longer 50 cents. But the paperback version is on sale for only $11.99  (as of 1/27/26). Click here to order from Amazon. (Note: using this link may give GPS Hope a small commission from your purchase.) If When Tragedy Strikes has encouraged you, I’d be grateful if you’d click here to leave a rating or review. Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Lucas Wildgoose was born on January 25 and is forever 17. Celeste France was born on January 29 and is forever 17. Lion Kingsbury was born on January 29 and is forever 20. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.      

Sibling loss runs far deeper than many people realize. When a child loses a sibling, they lose not only shared memories of the past, but also the future they imagined growing up together. For bereaved parents, this grief can be especially painful to witness—because sibling loss is rarely talked about and often misunderstood. Siblings who lose a brother or sister are often called the forgotten grievers. While much of the support and acknowledgment rightly centers on parents, surviving children may feel overlooked, unsure where their grief belongs, or hesitant to express their pain. Many parents are left wondering how to best support their children while navigating their own overwhelming loss. In this episode, Laura is joined by two guests who have each experienced the profound loss of two siblings. They also share a unique family connection as father and daughter-in-law. Together, they offer honest insight into what sibling loss truly feels like, what grieving children often carry silently, and how parents can gently and intentionally support their surviving children through the loss of a brother or sister. Whether you are a parent seeking to better understand your child’s grief, or someone wanting to acknowledge the often unseen pain of sibling loss, this conversation offers compassion, clarity, and hope for walking this road together. Bobby is married to his wife, Amy, and together they have four adult children. He serves in the Air Force and lives in the country near Wichita, Kansas and is the Founder of Sibling Lifeline. Bobby is deeply committed to service both in uniform and in the community. He volunteers with Make-A-Wish, the Wichita Children’s Home, and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). He is also actively involved in leading fellow Airmen into the local community through various youth outreach events. In his personal time, Bobby enjoys spending time with family and friends, walking trails, and playing sports. He carries the memory of his two brothers, Robert and Carl Bisterfeldt, both in Heaven, which continues to shape his compassion for others and his dedication to serving those navigating grief and loss. Gabby is married to her husband, Caleb, and together they share life with their two amazing cats, Miles and Willow, along with their dog Murphy. She works in business management and lives in Edmond, Oklahoma. Gabby is the Co-Founder of Sibling Lifeline. Gabby enjoys spending time with family and friends, running, and traveling. She has a deep passion for serving others and volunteers with several nonprofit organizations. Having both a brother and a sister in Heaven, Caleb Lillis and Jessicca Haveman, Gabby brings compassion, empathy, and lived understanding alongside those navigating grief and loss. Links Mentioned in this episode: Find comfort in The Bible’s Grieving Parents now on Kindle or PDF while the paperback edition is on its way. If you would like to receive a weekly word of hope alongside thousands of other bereaved parents, click here. To learn more about Sibling Lifeline and connect with Bobby and Gabby, click here Bereaved siblings can join the Facebook community here Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Ryan Hines was born on January 7 and is forever 27. Luke Joseph Raymond was born on January 18 and is forever 30. Joshua David Raymond was born on January 18 and is forever 34. Jeanette Marie was born on January 19 and is forever 36. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

After the loss of a child, joy can feel impossible, like a door that has been permanently locked shut. In this episode, Laura gently shares three biblical, grace-filled keys that can help unlock your heart again after child loss.  Drawing from her own journey as a bereaved parent and from her book When Tragedy Strikes, Laura explores how thankfulness, the Word of God, and extending care to others can slowly allow joy to take root, not as surface happiness, but as a deep, steady undercurrent.  This episode offers encouragement for grieving parents who long to believe that joy is still possible, even when life will never look the same. Links Mentioned in this episode: This episode includes a session from the Rebuilding Your Life After Child Loss online workshops, created specifically for grieving parents navigating life after child loss. The workshops are based on the award-winning book When Tragedy Strikes and comes with a free eBook copy. Learn more at gpshope.org/wtscourse Click here to share your thoughts on the GPS Hope Facebook page (under the post of this podcast episode) or click here to share directly on the GPS Hope website in the comment section under the episode. Click here to support the podcast, keep it ad-free, and get exclusive content. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Joshua Caldwell was born on January 16 and is forever 28. Adrian Augustine was born on January 17 and is forever 18. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

After the death of a child, the idea of joy can feel unreachable, or inappropriate. In this tender episode, we explore a deeper understanding of joy that does not cancel grief or require happiness. Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness depends on circumstances, but joy is a quiet, steady work of God within us. It is something that can exist even while sorrow still weighs heavily on the soul. Drawing from Scripture and lived experience, this episode offers hope to grieving parents who wonder if joy can ever return, and reassurance that joy may look different now, and that’s okay. This conversation offers hope for grieving parents who are asking hard questions, holding onto faith, and wondering what healing might look like now. If you are searching for hope after loss and reassurance that joy may return, even if it looks a bit different, this episode meets you where you are. Links Mentioned in this episode: This episode includes a session from the Rebuilding Your Life After Child Loss online workshops, created specifically for grieving parents navigating life after child loss. The workshops are based on the award-winning book When Tragedy Strikes. Learn more at gpshope.org/wtscourse Click here to post your picture on the GPS Hope Facebook page, under the post of this podcast episode.  Support the podcast and keep it ad-free: patreon.com/gpshope   Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Ryan Hines was born on January 7 and is forever 27. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

Entering a new year without our child bring heavy emotions for bereaved parents. The turning of the calendar can feel like we are leaving our child behind, especially if this is the first new year since their death. Even years later, the weight of time passing can still take our breath away. In this episode, Laura pulls up a recording from the archives, inviting listeners to hear from several experienced bereaved parents (pareavors) who have walked through anywhere from six to over thirty new years, without their child. Each guest shares their thoughts and suggestions about how to soften the pain of this difficult transition of entering a new year without our child.   You may find that one or more of these voices speaks directly to your heart as you step into this new year. Featured Guests Linda Findlay – International Grief Institute & The Grief Cruises www.internationalgriefinstitute.com Michele Paul – Umbrella Ministries www.umbrellaministries.com Mitch Carmody – Heartlight Studios www.heartlightstudios.net Sara Nelson – Footsteps of Hope www.hopefootsteps.com BJ Jensen – Love in Motion Signing Choir www.healinghallelujah.org Glen Lord – The Grief Toolbox www.thegrieftoolbox.com Links Mentioned in this episode: Reflections of Hope: A Daily Reading for Bereaved ParentsA full year of encouragement written specifically for parents who have lost a child. It doesn’t have to be read daily. Just pick it up on the days you need extra hope and encouragement. Click here to learn more. Please take a few seconds to leave a rating and review, so other parents can find the same hope you are receiving from this podcast. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Aria Arrona was born on December 31 and is forever 15. Trenton Plummer was born on December 31 and is forever  22. Madison Clark was born on January 2 and is forever 20.  Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

As Christmas draws near and a new year approaches, this episode is a gentle pause; a sacred moment set aside to pray over grieving parents who are carrying love and loss side by side. The heart of the episode is a heartfelt Christmas prayer, spoken just two days before Christmas, acknowledging the unique pain this season holds for parents who are missing a child. Rather than forced cheer, this prayer invites God’s presence, Emmanuel, God with us, into the quiet, heavy and complicated moments of grief. Listeners are reminded that: God sees every tear, every memory, and every ache Love does not end with death Our children are known, seen, and held by God Peace is not the absence of pain, but the presence of Christ This episode closes with reflections on love, hope, and purpose; how the love we have for our child, when wrapped in God’s love for us, can become a powerful force in this world, even after profound loss. Links Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon community as a way to help keep the podcast ad-free, along with getting special access to things Laura only shares in the Patreon community. Click here. As the new year approaches, many grieving parents feel the weight of moving forward without their child. Reflections of Hope: A Daily Reading for Bereaved Parents, written specifically with that reality in mind. Learn more: gpshope.org/reflections Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Carissa Perkins was born on December 21 and is forever 29. Megan Tryphaena Petkau was born on December 23 and is forever 8. John Ferreira Jr. was born on December 24 and is forever 32. Diane Holt (Laura’s sister) was born on December 25 and is forever 62. Isaiah Key was born on December 25 and is forever 13. Ryan Durkin was born on December 27 and is forever 19. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Subscribe, share, and listen wherever you get your podcasts. Support the podcast and keep it ad-free: patreon.com/gpshope Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.    

The holiday season can feel unbearably painful after the death of a child. While the world around us glitters with lights, gatherings, and celebrations, we grieving parents feel the weight of loss more intensely during this time of year. In this episode, Laura offers heartfelt guidance, practical support, and spiritual encouragement to help pareavors gently navigate the holidays with compassion for themselves. Drawing from lived experience, this conversation explores meaningful “gifts” you can give your mind, body, and soul as you move through the weeks ahead, whether this is your first holiday season without your child or your twentieth. Links Mentioned in this episode: Join Laura live on YouTube at 8:00 PM Central as she shares Sunday’s reading and lights the red candle of love. Find out more and get your copy of Hope for the Future: An Advent Journey for Bereaved Parents here. Reflections of Hope: Daily Readings for Bereaved Parents — a hardback devotional offering comfort throughout the year. Click here to learn more. Click here to be sent a PDF of Ten Ways to Honor Your Child. Special December Offer — a free Pareavor bracelet included with every paperback book order (excluding Reflections of Hope, which ships directly from the printer). Click here to claim yours in the GPS Hope webstore, where you will also find wearable hope on clothing merchandise. Help us keep this podcast ad-free while receiving special encouragement and bonus content. Join the GPS Hope Community on Patreon Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Jeff-Free Hoke was born on December 17 and is forever 33. Adelaide Rowell was born on December 20 and is forever 19. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

Christmas can stir up a deep ache for any parent who has lost a child. The lights, the music, and the memories bring both beauty and pain, often side by side. In this week’s episode, Laura shares a tender and meaningful offering for this difficult season: she reads several comforting and encouraging daily entries (Tuesday through Saturday) from her book Hope for the Future: An Advent Journey for Bereaved Parents. These readings are meant to gently guide you toward finding God’s peace after child loss at Christmastime, whether you listen all at once or pause after each day’s reflection. This episode provides calm, hope-filled moments to breathe, reflect, and feel less alone during the holidays. Laura’s hope and prayer for each listener, is that as you move through this sacred and tender season, you experience God’s peace after child loss at Christmastime in ways that meet you gently right where you are. May His love wrap around you like a warm blanket, bringing moments of comfort, hope, and light.   Links Mentioned in this episode: One powerful way to experience and share God’s peace after child loss at Christmastime is to honor your child in a meaningful, lasting way. To Sponsor a podcast episode, click here . Find out more and get your copy of Hope for the Future: An Advent Journey for Bereaved Parents here. GPS Hope YouTube Channel for weekly Advent candle lighting Take advantage of purchasing a book and getting a free pareavor/hope bracelet. Click here. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Ashton Boldt was born on December 8 and is forever 22. Aaron Fitzgerald was born on December 10 and is forever 24. Tyler Sitter was born on December 12 and is forever 32. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

When we lose a child, part of us dies too. One of the deepest questions a grieving parent asks in those early months and even years is, “Who am I now?” The identity we had as a parent suddenly shifts, and our role looks nothing like what we thought it would. Today’s episode looks at […]

Today’s guest has lived life after losing a child for nearly thirty years, which means he brings decades of hard-won wisdom and the honesty of someone who still remembers the darkness well. Like most pareavors, Tracy Brinkmann never imagined he could climb out of that crushing place of grief. But his story is a powerful […]

In recognition of National Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (Nov. 22), today’s episode features a deeply heartfelt conversation with a remarkable pareavor, Carol Krawiec. Carol has endured the unimaginable, losing three of her five sons, with her most recent loss being to suicide. She opens her heart and shares the stories of her boys, the […]

The holidays can highlight our grief in painful ways when our child is no longer here with us. This week, Laura talks about how gratitude and grief can coexist — especially during the holiday season — and how God gently meets us in both. You’ll hear Laura share a deeply personal story about Becca’s last Thanksgiving — how supporting her desire to host created a bittersweet memory that has become precious. It’s a beautiful reminder that the smallest gifts and moments can be sacred, even in the ache of loss. She also shares that God truly can be Emmanuel – God with us – through the Christmas season. This episode offers gentle encouragement to recognize the goodness still present, without denying or minimizing the pain. Links Mentioned in this episode: Join the community who are making sure this podcast continues, giving hope to others the way you have received hope. Choose your level here on Patreon. Hope for the Future: An Advent Book for Bereaved Parents — Click here If this episode encouraged your heart, would you share it with another grieving parent who may need to know they aren’t alone this holiday season? You can also connect with Laura and other pareavors through: Website | Facebook | YouTube Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Jake Hammaker was born on November 4 and is forever 26.  Everett Molino was born on November 9 and is forever 15. Beau-Dean Gordon was born on November 10 and is forever 23. Nathan Theriault was born on November 11 and is forever 2. Solange Pantoja was born on November 13 and is forever 33. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

When our child leaves this earth before we do, it can feel like everything inside of us has died too. But God has already planted a small seed of hope deep within our hearts, because Jesus, the giver of Hope lives in us (through the Holy Spirit). However, we need to water that seed of hope after child loss. It is a seed that needs care, connection, and time to grow. In this heartfelt episode, Laura shares how healing begins to take root when we stay connected with God and with others who understand our pain. You will also hear from other pareavors what they have done to water that seed of hope. As we water the seed of hope in our own hearts, we will find that sharing our hope with others actually multiplies it. In this episode, Laura also shares how you can do that through GPS Hope, the ministry behind the Grieving Parents Sharing Hope podcast, and how together, we can build a community where no grieving parent walks alone. Links Mentioned in this episode: Join the community who are making sure this podcast continues, giving hope to others the way you have received hope. Choose your level here on Patreon. Order your signed copy of My Grief Journey here. Click here to write a review for My Grief Journey. Ask to join the My Grief Journey Facebook group here. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Chione Beverly McNeil was born on October 31 and is forever 15. Chaney Patrich was born on November 4 and is forever 20. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In this powerful conversation, Laura talks with award-winning novelist and journalist John DeDakis, who shares how writing became a source of healing after the death of his son, Stephen. Even if you’ve never thought of yourself as a writer, this episode offers hope and encouragement to help you process your grief in a deeply personal […]

When a baby is born after a pregnancy loss, it is often called a “rainbow baby”. We all know one child can never replace another, and it certainly does not remove the grief of the child who was conceived but is not here with us. However, most will agree that there is an ache that […]

In this episode, One Step at a Time Through Our Grief, Laura shares how God used the beauty of His creation — mountains, rivers, the ocean, and even the warmth of the sun — to remind her that He is always present, even in the hardest moments of deep loss. As grieving parents, we often […]

The one-year anniversary of your child’s death is a day no parent ever wants to face. It can feel unbearably heavy, filled with painful “last time” memories and overwhelming emotions. In this episode of Grieving Parents Sharing Hope, Laura gently shares her heart on this topic, based on her own experience after the death of her daughter, Becca, and after walking along side others for over a decade.   You will also get to hear what others have done to get through that first year, and through the one-year anniversary of their child’s death. This episode both acknowledges the intense pain leading up to that day, as well as giving hope that you can get past it, doing it your own way as needed.  Whether you find yourself in tears, in silence, in stories, or even in laughter, there is no “right” or “wrong” way to move through this painful milestone. You are not alone. And as Laura reminds us, even in the darkest moments, there is still hope. Links Mentioned in this episode: If you’d like more encouragement, Laura’s new book The Bible’s Grieving Parents is now available. You can find the Kindle version on Amazon, Link Here or get a PDF copy directly from gpshope.org. GIVE AN AMAZON REVIEW HERE. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR7KM44G Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Jeffrey Dunkleman was born on October 10 and left us at age 53. James Fielding was born on October 10 and left us at age 28.. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

When our child dies, life as we know it comes to a sudden stop. There is now a before and after. Today’s guest, Mick Wienholt, shares his story of losing his firstborn son, Luke, and how that loss changed not only his life, but his eternity.  Mick admits that before Luke’s death, he and his […]

Have you ever taken the time to look at parents in the Bible who have lost a child as a powerful resource that speaks directly to the heart of  grieving parents walking through child loss today? In this episode, Laura takes us on a short journey of just a few parents in the Bible who experienced the death of a child. From Adam and Eve’s loss of Abel, to King David’s grief over his infant son, to Job’s unimaginable pain of losing all his children, these ancient stories have deep truths for those of us who have lost a child, as well as reminding us that we are not alone in our grief. Laura also takes a deeper look at God’s goodness and mercy, even within the intense pain of child loss, and why our faith must rest on who God is rather than what we think He should (or shouldn’t) do. This conversation will reassure you that you’re not alone, and that there is no pressure or timetable when it comes to what you keep or release. Your child’s life is worth remembering in the way that brings you comfort and peace.  Links Mentioned in this episode: The insights Laura shares in this episode were taken from her newly released book The Bible’s Grieving Parents: Finding Comfort, Hope and Faith from Their Stories. If you’ve been struggling with questions like “Where is God in this pain?” or “How do I keep living with a broken heart?” I wrote this book for you. My prayer is that these biblical stories will remind you that you are not alone, and that God’s goodness and mercy are still at work in your life, just as He was in the lives of those we read about in the Bible. – Laura Available now through September 26 at a special price: Kindle edition on Amazon: only $2.99 Click here (Affiliate link – GPS Hope will receive a small portion of the purchase price) PDF download from GPS Hope: only $4.99 Click here Grief Cruise & Renew and Remember Retreat – February in FloridaSpecial discounted cabin prices coming to an end soon! Click here Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Nicole Zanoni Romualdo was born on September 21 and left us at 16 months. Cassandra Noel Persichetti  was born on September 24 and left us at age 17. Jennifer Howell was born on September 27 and left us at age 50. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

As grieving parents, we often find ourselves, understandably, holding tightly to the belongings of our child who has died. A favorite shirt, a treasured toy, a blanket, even something as simple as a toothbrush. These are not just objects. They are sacred reminders of the bond we still have with our child. In this episode […]

Ever find yourself standing in your kitchen, forgetting how to peel an orange? Or panic in a parking lot because you don’t remember driving to the store, much less remember where you parked? You are not alone. In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Laura shares what it’s like to experience a “mental breakdown” in grief; the fogginess, the forgetfulness, the moments of overwhelming disorientation that can feel both terrifying and isolating. This is part of the journey of Rebuilding Your Life After Child Loss. What you’ll hear in this episode: Raw and relatable stories about the mental chaos of grieving—like driving away from a grocery store without your groceries, or feeling lost in your own car. A compassionate reminder that these experiences are more common than we realize and they aren’t a sign of failure. Gentle truths to hold when you feel alone in the fog, and permission to believe that mental clarity and peace are possible again. Practical encouragement on how to begin transforming thoughts and faulty beliefs, moving from “I’ll never function again” to “this is hard, but it doesn’t define me.” This episode also introduces a hopeful next step, as Laura invites you to stay connected as she unveils a series of workshops that are gentle, faith-based paths designed to guide grieving parents toward healing and purpose. Think of them as nourishing steps, not flashy fixes, crafted to help you move forward because of your love, not despite your loss. Grief is disorienting, but you are not disqualified. Even foggy moments aren’t failures, but invitations to remember: clarity does return, and one small step can help you walk toward a life of meaning again. Whether you stay just to listen, or one day feel ready to walk forward with community, you are always welcome here. Links Mentioned in this episode: Explore gentle, self-paced workshops that walk alongside you as you reclaim your mind, your identity, and your future: Rebuilding Your Life After Child Loss Workshops Join the GPS Hope community—where grief is seen, your doubts are understood, and hope is real: About GPS Hope   GPS Hope Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Brady Keith Herbert was born on September 7 and left us at age 30. Jacob Sorouri was born on September 8 and left us at age 32. Emma Ho was born on September 9 and left us at age 10. Petrina Charlean Bostic was born on September 12 and left us at age 23. Visit gpshope.org/birthdays to submit your child’s name and date so we can honor them, too. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In this episode of Grieving Parents Sharing Hope: Can God Really Heal My Hurting Heart?, I sit down with Rachel “Wojo” Wojnarowski, who knows the deep pain of child loss firsthand. After miscarriages and saying goodbye to her precious daughter Taylor, who lived 22 years with courage and faith, Rachel learned to cling to prayer […]

In this episode of Grieving Parents Sharing Hope: Bringing Our Pain to God After Child Loss, I talk with Carol Renfro, a mom just two years into this journey of child loss. Carol’s only child, Jeff-Free (known as Free), died by suicide at the age of 33. Though her grief is still very fresh, she […]

After the death of our child, one of the first—and most desperate—questions we ask God is “Why?” Why my child? Why didn’t You stop it? Why couldn’t it have been different? But what if “why” isn’t the question that will bring us to a place of healing? What if there’s another question that opens our […]

This episode is not just for parents losing a disabled child or who have lost a child, but for anyone who questions how a severely disabled child can have a life worth living.  What you are about to listen to is raw and real. Two moms who had children with severe disabilities from premature births […]

In this heartfelt episode, we continue the conversation on how the death of our child impacts our relationship with God—specifically shifting from a transactional relationship to an intimate one built on trust, even when we don’t understand Him. Laura gently challenges us to examine the ways our fast-paced, internet-driven culture may be shaping our spiritual […]

This is one of the most honest and difficult topics we’ve ever addressed on the podcast—being angry at God after the death of your child. If you’ve felt intense anger toward Him, or even found yourself hating God for “taking” your child, know that you’re not alone. You’ll also hear Laura share a deeply personal moment she had with the Lord, and reflect on how God may have chosen to bless our children in ways we don’t understand yet—but one day will. “I know we wanted to live out our lives here with them, but God, in His wisdom, His love, and His all-knowing power, decided to bless our child with a life of perfection before we get to experience it.” Links Mentioned in this episode: August’s “Reflections of Hope” Devotional If August is a difficult month for you, this devotional offers a short daily reading to help carry you through. Visit gpshope.org/reflections to learn more. You can also check out the full-year hardback edition. New Merchandise: Pareavor with Hope Shirts & Hats Wearing one of these items is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a symbol of your identity as a pareavor, someone choosing to walk with grief and hope. Shop the collection here: gpshope.org/store If you would like to start receiving the Weekly Word of Hope email that Laura referred to, click here. Your email address is safe with GPS Hope, you will not get spammed, and you can unsubscribe any time. Birthdays: We lovingly remember and celebrate the lives of: Daniel Krawiec was born on July 28 and left us at age 32. Easton Holden was born on July 28 and left us at age 39. Joey Ray was born on July 28 and left us at age 26. Dayne Sturm was born on July 29 and left us at age 21. Lauren Miller Dobbins was born on July 30 and left us at age 33. If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In this raw and heartfelt episode, Laura Diehl shares what it’s like when the death of your child causes your life to come to a complete standstill—while the rest of the world just keeps going. She opens up about deeply personal moments from her own grief journey, including the recent reminder of that paralyzing feeling when her father-in-law suddenly passed away and caregiving responsibilities took over her life once again. Laura gently reminds grieving parents that even though life may feel stuck right now, healing is possible. She shares hope through Scripture, personal experience, and the powerful truth that “this too shall pass.” With compassion and authenticity, Laura speaks directly to pareavors who feel like they’re frozen in time while everything around them keeps moving. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: What it feels like when life stops after child loss Laura’s vivid story of sitting at a stoplight, frozen in grief How a sudden family death brought those feelings back years later The difficult season of caregiving and halted plans Encouragement from 2 Corinthians on finding comfort and strength A hopeful reminder: if others have made it through, you can too A heartfelt invitation to be someone others will look to, for hope Links Mentioned in this episode: Pareavor with Hope Apparel Line Wear your grief and hope with courage. Browse the new GPS Hope merchandise featuring a shattered heart pieced back together with the words Pareavor with Hope. Shop now: gpshope.org/store Reflections of Hope: August Edition Need daily encouragement? The August volume of Reflections of Hope for Bereaved Parents is available, or you can get the full-year edition. Learn more: gpshope.org/reflections Birthdays: Tony Crane was born on July 23 and left us at age 20. If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

Have you found yourself stuck in the endless questions of why after your child died? Why did this happen? Why my child? Why didn’t God stop it? In this raw and tender episode, Laura gently explores what it means to live in that painful space between loss and healing—where answers often never come, and “closure” feels like a betrayal. Drawing from a powerful quote, “You can get closure, or you can move on, but you can’t have both”, Laura speaks directly to grieving hearts. She reassures us that moving forward does not mean letting go of our child, but instead carrying their love with us into a life that can still have purpose, even without answers. Through honest reflection and Scripture, you’ll be reminded that: It’s okay to not have closure. It’s okay to not be okay. And it’s okay to begin hoping again. Laura also prays a heartfelt prayer of comfort, peace, and a gentle nudge toward hope, even if it’s just a flicker. Whether you’re barely breathing or beginning to take tiny steps, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that you are not alone—and you can be a pareavor with hope. Links Mentioned in this episode: New “Pareavor with Hope” Merchandise Line Every item in this new collection is designed for grieving parents—featuring a shattered heart lovingly pieced back together, with the words “Pareavor with Hope” across the front. It’s not just apparel—it’s a sacred statement of who we are.  Click here to see the full line of “Pareavor with HOPE” shirts, hoodies, ball caps and stocking hats. Birthdays: Join us as we honor the precious children being remembered this week. Jack Crean was born on July 16 and left us at age 18. Hayden Beck was born on July 17 and left us at age 16. Jimmy LaPlante was born on July 19 and left us at age 39. If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Laura welcomes Lisa Espinoza to share the deeply personal story of losing her 25-year-old son, Chandler, after he was struck by a car and spent 18 days in the ICU before passing away on January 1st. Lisa opens up about the unique challenges of grieving during the holiday season, […]

As the United States celebrates Independence Day with fireworks and festivities, grieving parents often feel out of place — bound by pain instead of celebrating freedom. In this gentle and honest episode, Laura speaks to the heart of what “freedom” can look like after the loss of a child. It’s not about moving on… but about slowly learning how to live again. Whether you’re skipping the celebrations, silently remembering your child, or simply trying to breathe today, this episode reminds you that your journey matters — and you are not alone. What You’ll Hear: Why holidays like the 4th of July can feel especially painful A new perspective on freedom in the midst of grief The quiet strength of your personal “declaration” Permission to grieve differently than the world expects Gentle hope that healing and freedom can still be possible Links Mentioned in this episode: Be sure to click here to find out more about the Reflections of Hope book – both for a full year and the individual months (especially July and August). Don’t forget to give the podcast a rating and review to help other pareavors find the same hope you have found. Find more support and resources at GPSHope.org   If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org   To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In today’s episode, Laura talks with Kim Harms, who has lost both a mom and a son to suicide and also found herself widowed.  Even with all these losses, Kim has been able to learn how to live a life of meaning and purpose, and loves to encourage others that they can do the same.  […]

In this compassionate episode of Grieving Parents Sharing Hope, Laura Diehl speaks directly to grieving parents who are silently battling guilt after the loss of their child—especially when they wonder, “Was this my fault?” or even, “Is God punishing me?” Drawing from personal emails, Scripture, and real-life stories, Laura offers insight into: Why suffering is not a sign of God’s punishment How guilt can wrongly silence your right to grieve A powerful reminder that Jesus has already taken all our guilt and shame Practical ways to begin releasing guilt and walking in freedom Whether you’re struggling with what your child did—or didn’t do—or simply feeling crushed by the weight of “what ifs,” this episode is a lifeline of truth and grace.   Links Mentioned in this episode: Find out more about the 2026 Grief Cruise and/or the Renew and Remember Retreat here. Click here  to request 10 Tips to Overcome Guilt. Listen to the episode The Difference Between Regret and Guilt with guest Nancy Weil. Birthdays: Kari-Lee Venning (Birrell) was born on June 19 and left us at age 25. Cassie Martinez was born on June 20 and left us at age 19.   If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org   To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.

In today’s episode you will be hearing from Laura’s husband, Dave, along with a long-time friend, Matt Poelman, who lost his son, Eric, while serving in the military in Iraq.  Some of the things discussed were: The emotions Matt felt  How he and his wife, Sally, dealt with the death of their son differently How […]

Can we still trust God when we feel like He led us into such a dark place, allowing our child to be taken from us? In today’s episode, Laura takes a look at this question through the familiar verse of Psalm 23:2. (Laura shared her thoughts on Psalm 23:1 in the previous two episodes 297 and 298.) Note: Today’s podcast episode, along with the other June episodes, are being sponsored by Ho Teck Min from Singapore, in memory of his daughter, Emma. Links Mentioned in this episode: To find out more about the next GPS Hope retreat in New York this October click here.           Click here to look at both the monthly and the yearly Reflections of Hope books.   Birthdays: Ocean Yohannes Emru Campbell was born on June 7 and left us at age 23.   If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information. The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here. Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE! www.gpshope.org   To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at [email protected]. Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose. It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.