A Gift For Grief

In this powerful and deeply important episode, we open up a conversation that many still find difficult to have about suicide, and bereavement by suicide.I’m joined by representatives from the incredible charity SOS Silence of Suicide, whose mission is to challenge stigma, encourage open dialogue, and ensure that no one feels they have to suffer in silence.Their message is simple yet profound: Stop the Silence, Start the Conversation.Together, we explore:The importance of speaking openly about mental health and suicidal thoughtsHow silence can be more dangerous than the struggle itselfSupport for those bereaved by suicideHow SOS is working to create safe, non-judgmental spaces for anyone in crisisThe transformative power of compassion, listening, and shared humanityWe all open up about our own personal experiences and this episode may be sensitive for some listeners, so please take care while listening.If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that support is available — you are not alone.Learn more about SOS Silence of Suicide:Website: silenceofsuicidesos.org.ukFacebook: SOS Silence of Suicide  Instagram: @sossilenceofsuicideTwitter: @SOS_Initiatives If this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief.Connect with your host Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of A Gift For Grief, Narinder Moore reflects on the very different ways grief has touched her life.Her Father was bedridden for five years and died in 2008. Narinder explained how she experienced a mixture of sadness and relief - comforted by knowing he was no longer suffering.Years later, her grief took on a new shape. The sudden loss of her eldest brother Gurjit in 2021, followed by the death of her younger brother Jagdip in 2023.This brought pain of a different kind - sharper, more unexpected, and deeply disorienting.Narinder opens up about how the Sikh community stepped forward during these times of loss and she shares the important role of Sikh customs and traditions in mourning.Members of the Sikh community came together to surround her family with prayer and support.Those who were able to read from the scriptures brought the sacred words into the house, filling the home with comfort and reverence. The presence of the scriptures offered both spiritual strength and a reminder that she was not alone in her grief.This heartfelt conversation explores how grief is never the same twice, and how faith, culture, and community can both comfort and challenge us in times of loss.Connect with Narinder through her Facebook group or Facebook page, both called - The Live Well Learning Hub. Narinder's book 'Reflections' A Guided Journal: is available from Amazon.Recommended reading:Anita Moorjani Dying to Be MeBill Kirkpatrick: Going ForthThe Miracle Morning: Hal ElrodA Gift For Grief: Louise BatesDonna Ashworth: Growing BraveConnect With Your Host Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebatesIf this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of A Gift For Grief, I talk about the words we use around loss.So often, people mean well but don’t know what to say - and sometimes the phrases we’ve all heard, like “they’re in a better place” or “everything happens for a reason”, can sting more than they soothe.I share some reflections on the language of grief: what feels supportive, what can feel blunt, and how even simple, honest words can make a big difference.I also explore how grief can shift the way we speak and listen to each other.If you’ve ever struggled to find the right thing to say - or wished someone had said something different, this conversation is for you.Connect with your host Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebatesIf this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this gentle and heartfelt solo episode, I reflect on the first year of grief and the many emotional “firsts” that come with loss: The first birthday, Christmas, holiday, anniversary, and even the first unexpected moment of laughter.I share personal stories, including how my husband Bill and I honour our son Matthew’s birthday, and why we’ve chosen sunshine over tradition when it comes to Christmas.I also explore the emotional weight of anticipation, the quiet moments that catch us off guard, and the small, meaningful rituals that help keep love present in our everyday lives.This episode is for anyone navigating the painful first year, or supporting someone through theirs, or simply trying to understand the complex, unpredictable journey of grief.You’ll be gently reminded that:There’s no right way to grieve—only your wayIt’s okay to feel joy, guilt, longing, and laughter all at onceEven in grief, there are glimmers of love and connectionIf this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief.Connect with your host Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grief and loss are experiences we never ask for but they shape us in profound ways.In this deeply personal episode, I open up about my own journey through grief: the loss that shattered me, the heartbreak I never expected, and the surprising gifts that emerged from the pain, such as clarity, resilience, compassion, and a deeper connection to life and much more.This conversation is an honest invitation to see grief as more than something to “get through.” Instead, what if we approached it as a sacred journey, a path that, while brutally painful, can transform us in ways nothing else can?Whether you’re grieving a loved one, navigating a major life change, or supporting someone through loss, this episode will help you:Understand the hidden lessons and gifts in griefFind meaning and hope during painful seasonsEmbrace healing while honoring your lossGrief can break us but it can also open us.If you’ve ever wondered how to keep going when life falls apart, or how to show up for someone who’s hurting, this episode is for you.Connect With Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebatesIf this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I dive deep into the classic concept of the five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. But are these stages really universal? And do they truly reflect your unique grief journey?Join me as I explore:The origins of the five stages and why they’ve become so popular.Common misconceptions and myths around grief stages.How grief is a deeply personal experience that doesn’t always follow a set path.Ways to recognise and honour your own unique process of healing.Tips for supporting yourself and others through grief, beyond the stages.Whether you’re grieving a loss or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you find freedom from expectations and embrace your own authentic grief.Tune in and discover why your grief story deserves to be honoured on its own terms. Recommended reading: On Death & Dying by Elizabeth Kubler Ross Connect with Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebatesIf this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“How many children do you have?”It’s a question that comes up easily in conversation, often asked with good intentions and without much thought.But for those of us who have experienced the loss of a child, it can bring a wave of emotion.It touches a tender part of us, stirring grief, love, and the quiet reality of what could have been.In this episode, I explore the emotional weight this question can carry. I speak honestly about the pause that comes before answering, and the personal journey of navigating between truth and emotional safety.I share my own experience with this question, and offer reflections on how we can hold space, for ourselves and for others when loss is part of the story.This episode is for anyone who carries grief quietly, who continues to love a child no longer here, and who wishes their experience could be acknowledged without needing to explain.In this episode, I reflect on:The emotional impact behind a seemingly simple questionWhat it’s like to parent a child who is no longer livingWhy grief often lives in the things left unsaidHow to honour our children while protecting our own emotional boundariesThe unique challenges of invisible motherhood or fatherhoodConnect with Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I am delighted to welcome my dear friend, Catherine Williamson, as my guest.This episode reflects the quiet, often unacknowledged grief that follows the end of a relationship. Unlike death, there’s no formal goodbye—just the lingering presence of memories, lost dreams, and shared routines. It speaks to the pain of mourning someone who is still alive, the emotional confusion it brings, and the lack of visible closure.Yet, within this sorrow lies a potential gift: the opportunity for healing, reflection, and growth. The message is one of compassion and solidarity for anyone navigating heartbreak—not just from a person’s absence, but from the end of love itself. It invites us to honour our grief, not fix it, and to gently uncover meaning amid the loss. If you are grieving someone who is still alive, if your heart is heavy with unanswered questions and silent prayers, know that you are not alone.Let us walk this path together, with open hearts and gentle hands, as we seek to find the gift within our grief.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.Recommended reading:The journey by Brandon Bays The Celestine Prophecy by James RedfieldPermission to screw up by Kristen HadeedConnect with Catherine Thompson: https://linktr.ee/catherinewilliamsonConnect with Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates#relationships #breakup #heartbreak Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grief doesn't adhere to a schedule.It comes in waves, in quiet moments, and sometimes in the most unexpected ways.My guest today Vicki Holton has walked through many forms of grief, each unique in its own weight.Now, she faces a new and deeply painful chapter: the anticipatory grief of knowing her son lives with a life-limiting heart condition.In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the complexities of grieving—what it looks like, how it evolves, and what might lie ahead.While this episode holds sorrow, it is also woven with hope, strength, and unexpected light.Recommended Book: Love You Forever by Robert MunschIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.Connect with Vicki through her socials: Vicki HoltonInstagram: AEBWELLNESSConnect with Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode we welcome Grant Harris, a gifted medium who has dedicated his life to helping people find peace, closure, and healing through spiritual connection.As someone who bridges the gap between the physical world and the spirit world, Grant shares how mediumship can be a powerful tool in the grieving process.He is known for his compassionate, grounded approach to spiritual connection.He works with individuals and groups to help them find comfort and clarity after loss and is passionate about helping people understand that they are never truly alone.Together, we explore how connecting with loved ones who have died can offer validation, comfort, and sometimes even the permission to move forward. Whether you're a sceptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers compassionate insight into how mediumship can provide hope for those navigating the pain of loss.What We Cover in This Episode:What a medium is and how Grant discovered his abilitiesCommon misconceptions and fears around mediumshipReal-life stories of how spirit communication has helped the grievingHow validation from spirit can ease guilt, unanswered questions, and unresolved emotionsTips for those who are curious or seeking a session with a mediumThe importance of ethical, compassionate practice in spiritual workWhy It Matters:Grief is often filled with lingering "what ifs," regrets, and a yearning for continued connection. Mediumship, when practiced responsibly, can offer reassurance that our loved ones are still with us in spirit and that love truly transcends death. Grant’s work illustrates how these messages can become a profound part of the healing journey.Checkout his website: www.grantharrismedium.comIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clare Spiers has dedicated her career to supporting individuals navigating the complex journey of grief, drawing from her own diverse experiences with loss. Having personally faced various forms of grief, she understands the profound impact it can have on one’s life. Through her own therapeutic journey, Clare was able to address and resolve her unresolved grief, ultimately becoming a certified Grief Recovery Specialist.In her practice, Clare offers innovative walk-and-talk grief groups and retreats, providing a compassionate space for individuals to process their emotions in a supportive environment. Many of the most effective therapists are those who have endured significant emotional challenges themselves; they transform their pain into purpose. Clare exemplifies this transformative journey, using her experiences to guide others toward healing and hope.Website: www.peopleboost.co.ukBooks recommended: The Grief Recovery Handbook by John James and Russell FriedmanIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paramjit experienced a haunting premonition about her husband’s funeral, shortly before receiving the devastating news that he had been involved in a traffic accident. Following a head injury, he underwent a brain scan, which revealed the presence of Huntington's disease. Tragically, Paramjit’s husband succumbed to this illness in October 2002. Just a day later, their daughter, Sheenam, was diagnosed with juvenile Huntington’s disease, a far more aggressive variant of the condition.In the wake of profound loss and the ongoing anticipatory grief surrounding her daughter’s diagnosis, Paramjit has emerged as a remarkable authority on the complexities of grief. Despite these overwhelming challenges, she is affectionately known as "Positive Paramjit," embodying resilience and hope in the face of adversity.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.Recommended books:Why Me, Why This, Why Now? by Robin NorwoodBooks paramjit has been a contributing author.Golden Threads by Sue WilliamsHuntingtons's heroes - chapter titled Sheenams wish Turning points moments - chapter titled opening the gifts of careWomen of Spirit - ordinary women extraordinary lives chapter titled - Thank you Daddy I'm no longer afraid of dying.https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest today, Dayle Adams eloquently talks about her role as a psychic medium and how it can support people who are grieving. Mediumship is a controversial topic among believers and sceptics alike.While some may dismiss this practice as mere trickery - many individuals find solace in connecting with their departed loved ones. Mediums claim to communicate with spirits of the deceased, providing comfort and closure to those left behind.They work like a cosmic phone line connecting and delivering messages from the other side. The idea that our loved ones continue to exist in some form after death can bring a sense of peace and reassurance during times of intense sorrow.Dealing with grief is never easy, but some people turn to mediumship as a way to cope with the loss of a loved one. Whether you believe in the validity of mediumship or not, it is undeniable that it offers a unique perspective on how we can navigate the complex emotions of grief and find healing in different ways.Anything that brings us comfort it is a good thing.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief. Recommended book: E-Squared by Pam GroutE-Squared is a lab manual with simple experiments to prove once and for all that there really is a good, loving, totally hip force in the universe.Rather than take it on faith, you are invited to conduct ten 48-hour experiments to prove each of the principles in this book.Yes, you read that right. It says prove. For more information about Dayle and the services and trainingshe provides, check out her website: www.dayleadams.comhttps://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Liza Wilson's first husband, Martijn, made the tragic decision to end his own life, he didn't just jump in front of a train - he ran towards it!This devastating moment not only shattered the future they had planned together, but also forced Liza to navigate the overwhelming shock, disbelief, and profound grief that accompanies suicide.The unanswered questions lingered, adding to her pain, and to make matters worse, Liza later discovered the staggering amount of debt they were in.It's rare for me to be at a loss for words, but witnessing Liza's incredible strength and resilience left me speechless.Conversations like these are not easy to have, and this episode is certainly a tough listen.Liza has survived a tragedy that most of us can't even imagine, yet today she courageously shares her story.While she may still be a work in progress, the loss of her father years later taught her the importance of letting go.For the last few years, Liza has taken herself along the path of self-development and this has been like therapy for her.She is now a transformative coach, trainer, author, and international speaker, deeply committed to empowering women through life’s transitions.With expertise in health, wealth, and relationships, she takes a holistic approach that honours the space between 'no longer' and 'not yet.'Liza facilitates transformative change by inspiring and empowering clients to take ownership of their lives, turn challenges into opportunities, step confidently into their potential, and achieve their goals.Her trauma-informed, heart-centered, and somatic approach guides clients toward clarity and purpose while supporting the acceleration of personal and professional development.If Liza can turn her life around – we all can!If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.If you would like to contact Liza, email: lizawilson@me.com https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest is Jessica Harrison, co-founder of J D Therapies here in Warwickshire. Jessica also works in the wellness industry, so it was only a matter of time before our paths crossed. Get ready to delve into the fascinating world of past life regression, soul contracts, and reincarnation as Jessica guides us through her expertise. Her fascinating belief about life and death helped her to come to terms with the sudden death of her brother. Reflecting on her spiritual journey, Jessica shares, “I've always been spiritually minded ever since I was a young girl, I was always fascinated with Astrology growing up. My journey into Holistic therapies has been an ongoing unwinding path for many years.”If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.Check out Jessica's website here: https://jdtherapies.co.uk/https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest today is Rachel Ollerenshaw whose daughter Molly died from cancer at the tender age of 8.Losing a child is an unimaginable and heartbreaking experience that no parent should ever have to go through. It can leave emotional scars that may never fully heal, impacting every aspect of a person's life.Despite facing such a devastating loss, Rachel alongside her Husband Tim, found the strength to establish a charity in honour of their daughter Molly.This charity, known as Molly Olly’s, serves as a beacon of hope and support for other families going through similar hardships.We all find our own ways to deal with grief and Rachel has found her way through her amazing charity www.Mollyollys.co.ukThis charity not only keeps Molly’s memory alive – it helps thousands of other families going through the darkest days of their lives.Molly Olly’s is a small charity but if you can afford to donate, you will be supporting a charity very close to my heart.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.https://mollyolly.co.uk/https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I am honoured to introduce my guest, Andy Smith, who is currently navigating the difficult journey of grieving the loss of his beloved wife, Helen, who tragically died from cancer.In August, Andy's grief will mark its sixth year, and throughout this time, he has gained valuable insights and wisdom that can potentially help people who are newly bereaved, or for others who feel stuck in their grief.Andy eloquently describes grief as an entity that occupies the space once filled by his wife, and he has learned to embrace it with tenderness and understanding. He has reached a point where he feels empowered to manage his grief, rather than allowing it to dictate his emotions and actions. He explains, "I control grief - it doesn't control me".Throughout his grieving process, Andy has found unwavering support from his friends and family, especially his grandchildren, who he believes carry on Helen's spirit. They frequently reminisce about Helen, keeping her memory alive and present in their lives.When faced with the task of rebuilding his life without Helen, Andy acknowledges the difficult choice he had to make, knowing that his wife did not have the same opportunity. His resilience and strength in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to all who listen to his story.I highly recommend tuning in to this episode, as Andy's words are sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced loss or is seeking guidance on their own journey of healing.It certainly inspired and helped me!If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.Books we discussed:Facing The Storm by Ray OwenLanguage of Loss by Sasha BatesStill a Way to Go by Andy SmithGood Grief and Other Poems by Andy SmithTwelve Months and Counting by Andy SmithFor more information about Andy visit his website: www.andysmithmusician.comhttps://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some individuals leave behind a legacy so powerful that it continues to shine brightly long after they have died. Today we are remembering Jenny Cox.In this episode, Alan Cox reflects on his beloved late wife Jenny, and the profound impact she had on their lives. Together, they developed The Balance Procedure, a simple yet effective self-help tool designed to bring about a sense of calm, peace, and balance within the body.Alan explains how this technique helped him when Jenny died suddenly from a heart attack.He also discusses how The Balance Procedure is evolving by incorporating a labyrinth - either using hand held labyrinth or walking labyrinth.Alan's way of dealing with his grief is by using this technique alongside his attitude of gratitude mindset.He focuses his attention and thoughts on all the amazing years he spent with his wife Jenny.Alan talks about his grief in a matter-of-fact way and while some may perceive Alan's pragmatic approach to grief as being remote or indifferent, it is proof that The Balance Procedure is working in his life.For more information about The Balance Procedure go to www.thebalanceprocedure.comFor someone who has lost the love of his life, he has a real sense of calm, peace and balance.This episode can hopefully give others struggling with their intense sadness hope that life can be good again - it certainly inspired me!If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.https://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The world was gripped by a collective wave of fear and disbelief when the tragic events of 9/11 unfolded.While many people watched from a distance, feeling disconnected from the devastation, my guest today Rob Halligan had a much more personal and harrowing experience.His father's office was located on the 99th floor of the World Trade Center.On that fateful day, Rob's father tragically lost his life. Despite the immense shock and loss, Rob found solace in his faith.As a Christian, he acknowledges that his relationship with God has been tested and challenged in ways he never imagined.Beyond the shock, horror and collective grief experienced by the world, Rob's story serves as a poignant reminder of the individual tragedies that occurred on 9/11.His resilience and faith in the face of such profound loss are truly inspiring.We didn't get a chance to talk about Global Care - a charity close to Rob's heart.For more information about this charity check out https://www.globalcare.org/If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people navigating the journey of grief.Connect with Rob Halligan:Website: robhalligan.co.ukBandcamp: robhalligan.bandcamp.com/communityFacebook: facebook.com/HalliganMusicTwitter: @RHalliganEmail: blatant.promotions@gmail.com#Folk #RobHalligan #SingerSongwriter #FaithAndMusic #StorytellingThroughMusic #AcousticFolk #MusicAndFaith #ChristianMusic #UKMusichttps://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me as I reflect on my previous episodes. It's been an incredible journey filled with growth and learning, and I've cherished every minute of it. On each episode I've had the privilege of hosting some truly inspiring guests who have not only shared their stories but also helped me navigate my own grief journey.I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to all of you who have been listening and supporting the podcast. Your feedback and encouragement have meant the world to me. Hearing how this podcast has resonated with you and aided you in your own healing process has been incredibly rewarding.As I prepare for future episodes, I'm excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. While the core theme of grief will remain at the heart of this podcast, I'm open to exploring different angles and perspectives in order to provide a more comprehensive understanding of this complex topic.Remember to check out The Twins Parable by Pablo J.Luis Molinero as discussed in this episode.Louise xxhttps://linktr.ee/louisebates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.