The Broken Pack™: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss

In this episode, of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss,  Dr. Dean speaks with Randye, a surviving sibling, who shares her deeply personal story of losing her brother Mitch to cancer over 45 years ago.  Her experience challenges the notion that grief fades with time, highlighting the enduring nature of sibling loss and its profound lifelong impact on surviving siblings. Randye speaks to the ways loss transforms us while emphasizing the unbreakable bond that persists between siblings, even beyond death. This episode offers a unique perspective on grief, resilience, and the transformative power of love, making it essential listening for surviving siblings, young adult cancer support networks, and anyone seeking understanding about the complexities of grief - especially the disenfranchised loss of a sibling and anticipatory grief that Randye experienced with many of her losses including her brother, parents, and husband.To learn more about Randye, her book, her writing, and other work, or to contact her, please visit her website: https://randyesundelwrites.com/. Her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/randye.sundel/ On instagram, Randye is found at @randyesundel Other links mentioned in this episode:Cancer Support Community (formerly Gilda's Club): https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

This episode of The Broken Pack™: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss explores the enduring impact of sibling loss with guest Dawn Rodgers. Together, Dawn and Dr. Dean delve into Dawn's experience decades after losing her brother, offering support and strategies for navigating this complex and persistent grief.Dawn Rodgers is a surviving sibling who found solace in photography after the loss of her brother. Her book,a photo essay, "Sorrow" acts as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of art in processing grief, honoring her brother's memory while guiding her through her unique experience of loss. This conversation sheds light on the often overlooked nature of sibling loss and offers hope for those navigating their grief journey.Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of murder and violence, including: death of a sibling , grief and trauma related to a sibling's death by murder, the impact of violence on families, and the emotional and psychological challenges of coping with a sibling's murderKey Discussion Points:-The overlooked nature of sibling loss and its isolating effect on surviving siblings-The importance of finding outlets for grief, such as artistic expression-Creating a support system through therapy, support groups, or connections with those who understand-The enduring nature and persistence of sibling grief: Dawn's story highlights that the pain of losing a sibling can persist even decades later-Honoring a sibling's legacy and finding meaning after loss regardless of the time since the loss helped Dawn reconnect with her brother and her own griefAbout our guest:Purchase Dawn's photographic essay "Sorrow" and learn more about her and her work on her website: https://www.dawnrodgers.co.uk/Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Life Interrupted: Finding Purpose Through GriefIn a deeply moving episode of "The Broken Pack™", Dentist Dr. Parul Dua Makkar shares her sibling loss story of losing her younger brother, Dentist Dr. Manu Dua, to oral cancer. With Dr. Dean, she explores her special sibling special bond, the harrowing experience of Manu's illness, and how this profound loss has transformed her life.Dr. Makkar describes how the writing of her brother's previously unfinished book, Life Interrupted: A Young Dentist's Journey with Cancer, Legacy, and the Lessons Left Behind, became a powerful act of processing her grief and connecting to Manu.  Her dedication to finishing his story led her down the path of advocacy, raising awareness about not only sibling loss but also the importance of early detection and treatment of oral cancer.About Dr. Makkar & Links Mentioned in the Show:Instagram: www.instagram.com/duagoodjobLinked in: Dr. Parul Dua MakkarWebsite (including information on the Dua Good Job Symposium): https://www.duagoodjob.com/Book: Life Interrupted: Dr. Dua’s Survival GuideAn additional Oral Cancer Awareness / resource:The Oral Cancer foundation: https://oralcancerfoundation.org/Young Adult Cancer Resource:  https://yasurvivors.org/about/Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

In this episode of The Broken Pack™: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss , journalist and author Steven Petrow joins Dr. Dean to discuss various aspects of sibling loss, grief, and medical aid in dying. He shares his personal experiences with losing his sister, Julie, to a six-year ovarian cancer experience, navigating his responses to her choice, and their perspectives on end-of-life choices. The conversation highlights the importance of privacy, listening, and respecting the wishes of cancer patients and etiquette in both grief and cancer. Steven Petrow also shares Julie’s voice and hopes for  expanding access to medical aid in dying for terminally ill individuals. This episode also sheds light on the unique dynamics of sibling relationships and their influence on individuals' identity and well-being.Content warning: This episode discusses Medical Aid in Dying.Links Mention and  Other Related Links:Clearity Foundation - https://www.clearityfoundation.org - An organization that Julie, Steven, and their family found support from. Clearity supports people with ovarian cancer and their families.Empathy Cards (some may be snarky, others are not, sibling loss ones support The Broken Pack™)- https://tinyurl.com/34ab2js8FAQ on MAiD- https://www.compassionandchoices.org/resource/frequently-asked-questions/Steven’s articles on Julie & on MAiDhttps://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/28/opinion/medical-aid-death-choice.htmlNPR Article on Steven learning to understand Julie's choice- https://tinyurl.com/a7x3p58hSteven's website: https://stevenpetrow.comSteven's article on cancer etiquette - https://www.mariashriversundaypaper.com/steven-petrow-cancer-etiquette/NPR  Science of Siblings  https://tinyurl.com/kj53c2ezSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Grieving the Unexpected: A Sister's Loss and Big Changes after Surviving Sibling Loss UnexpectedlyIn this episode, Dr. Angela Dean speaks with Heather Mercer about the sudden loss of her sister, Melissa, to a heart attack shortly after giving birth. Heather shares her journey of navigating profound grief, complex custody battles, and the ripple effects of unexpected loss. They explore how Melissa's passing left a void, affecting  family dynamics and resulting in additional secondary and ambiguous loss. Heather's story highlights the unique challenges of sibling loss and the importance of finding support and ways to honor her sister's memory amidst life's ongoing changes.Related Links:Camp Ho Mita Koda, diabetes camp located in Newbury Ohio- https://camphomitakoda.org/Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Surviving Sibling Loss & Stigma: Sara / DanThe Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss features Dr. Dean interviewing Sara McCann, who  recounts losing her brother Dan to substance use disorder. In this conversation, Sara unpacks the unique challenges faced by surviving siblings and the stigma surrounding addiction. Prepare to be moved by Sara's raw account and Dr. Dean's expertise as they shed light on sibling loss. Sara's experience underscores the profound grief of surviving siblings and the need for greater support after sibling loss. By amplifying voices like hers, we can create a more understanding world where grieving siblings receive the support they need and validate the misunderstood, disenfranchised loss of a sibling.Related Links:-Daniel Snel Memorial Scholarship & 5K- http://www.danthemanrun.com/- Sara's Mighty article she wrote shortly after losing Dan- https://themighty.com/2018/03/help-brother-heroin-addiction-overdose/Content Warning: This episode discusses the loss of a loved one due to substance use disorder and may be upsetting for listeners who have experienced similar losses or have experienced substance use disorder firsthand or in loved ones.-If you believe you are witnessing an overdose, call 911 or your country’s emergency number immediately even if you are administering Narcan. -If you are in the US and would like support for yourself or someone else with substance use, mental health issues, or other topics discussed in this episode, please call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or Text your 5-digit ZIP Code to 435748 (HELP4U) or call a warmline. -For more immediate crisis call 911, 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.- In the UK, a list of related resources can be found at https://tinyurl.com/3fknb36c-In the USA an updated directory of warmlines by state can be found at https://warmline.org/warmdir.html-A warmline directory for trained peer supports in over 20 countries can be found atSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

An Oncology Nurse's Journey of Grief and Loss: Navigating Sibling Loss , Knowledge, and DevastationIn this episode, of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss,  surviving sibling Cally Marzolf-Adams, an oncology nurse shares her difficult sibling loss story of losing her sister, Sarah, to metastatic pancreatic cancer. Through her conversation with Dr. Dean, Cally shares her profound story of love, loss, and heartbreas, highlighting the challenges and coping mechanisms involved. Her knowledge as an oncology nurse both prepared her and haunted her as she watched her sister decline, eventually dying from the illness. Together with our host and fellow sibling loss survivor, Dr. Angela Dean, they discuss out-of-order loss, Cally's relationship with Sarah who she described as a kind, calming, soul, memories, seeking help in grief, and so much more.Also mentioned in this episode was Young Adult Survivors United, an organization whose mission is to help young adult cancer survivors and caregivers/co-survivors cope and thrive by providing emotional, social, and financial support. For more information on this organization please see https://yasurvivors.org/about/.Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Your Heart’s Voice: A conversation about Sibling Loss , Intuition, and Living with LossIn this episode, of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss,  host Dr. Angela Dean talks to Renée Green Murphy, author and surviving sibling, about losing her brother Robert in a tragic automobile accident. Renée shares her experiences of grief from sibling loss and honoring Robert through her award-winning children's book, Your Heart's Voice.She describes the overwhelming grief, the unfathomable pain of sibling loss, and the emptiness she experienced after the sudden death of her beloved brother.Renée highlights the ways in which she has kept her brother's memory alive, including through his bartending videos and her own writing.In the interview, through her work, and in the ongoing promotion of his work as The Crazy Bartender, Renée's love for and continuing bond with Robert is just as palpable as the pain of the loss.Links mentioned in the show & How to connect with Renée:Renée’s website: http://reneegreenemurphy.comRenée’s Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorreneegreenemurphy?igsh=cHNlb3dsM216ZTA1Her book, Your Heart’s Voice, on Amazon: https://a.co/d/isR17UnRobert’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robgreeneofficial?igsh=MWRvaDVpMTZ0bzZzMA==The Crazy Bartender YouTube: https://youtube.com/@crazybartenderofficial?si=jusoGH1CwIgnqT0MRobert’s website: https://www.robgreene.comSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Sibling Loss Decades Later : A Heartfelt Conversation with Eric GraceSurviving sibling Eric Grace shares his sibling loss experience of losing his brother, Kyle, in a tragic car accident over 25 years ago. Through his story, Dr. Dean and Eric explore the complexities of sibling loss, grief, and the lasting impact on surviving siblings.Eric and Dr. Dean explore the impact his sibling loss has had on his life, views about death and living, his work in helping others , and his purpose in living. To learn more about Eric, see the following:Website: https://www.eric-grace.comInstagram: @soulfulrelationships and @ericfgrace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericfgraceClubhouse: The Wholly Human House at https://www.clubhouse.com/house/the-wholly-human-house-rrgxbbn5Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Sibling Loss and Organ Donation: A Conversation with Kelly StifflerIn this episode, Dr. Dean speaks with Kelly Stiffler about losing her younger brother, Josh, from a seizure. Josh was an organ donor and Kelly shares how this loss has affected her and the family.  We also explore how different roles and relationships mean grieving the same person differently, including how she is grieving differently from her sister, Kate who we heard from in the first episode of this season.Dr. Dean and Kelly discuss how therapy can be a valuable resource to process sibling loss and a safe and supportive space to talk about her grief. They also discuss the physical symptoms of grief, emotional exhaustion, and brain fog.To learn more about organ and tissue donation and to become a donor, please see:In the US:1. Donate Life America: https://donatelife.net2. United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) - https://unos.org/transplant/facts/For a list of organ donation organizations and informationby regions in the world, please see https://tts.org/isodp-resources/isodp-organ-donation-societiesSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Sibling Loss survivor and author, Linzi Meaden, shares What Suicide Left BehindLinzi shares her story of losing her only sibling, her brother, Stuart, to suicide during the pandemic.  Linzi shares how writing in her journal led her to writing her book, What Suicide Left Behind: Navigating Your Own Grief Journey, to normalize grief from suicide loss and to help others feel less alone in their journeys.Linzi’s work as a trauma therapist has given her insights into the unique challenges faced by suicide survivors.Linzi has ensured that her children will know Uncle Stu and has found ways to honor him and her own continuing bond with him.Content Warning: Information presented in this episode may be upsetting to some people. It contains talk of suicide.If you are in the US and would like support for yourself or someone else with substance use, suicidal thoughts, or other topics discussed in this episode, please call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or Text your 5-digit ZIP Code to 435748 (HELP4U) or call a warmline. For more immediate crisis call 911, 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.If you believe you are witnessing an overdose, call 911 or your country’s emergency number immediately even if you are administering Narcan.In the USA an updated directory of warmlines by state can be found at https://warmline.org/warmdir.htmlA warmline directory for trained peer supports in over 20 countries can be found at https://www.supportiv.com/tools/international-resources-crisis-and-warmlines (some of these may be hotlines).Support  our guest, Linzi Meaden:Instagram: linzi_meaden_suicide_griefFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatsuicideleftbehindBook on Amazon, “What Suicide Left Behind”: https://a.co/d/2ZphdZ1Website: https://linzimeaden.com/suicide-loss-support/LSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Jillian’s Sibling Loss Story: Unresolved Issues, Family Conflict, and the Loss of a Sibling to SuicideIn this episode, of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss, surviving sibling Jillian Prouse, a mother and a teacher, shared her personal journey of grief and loss, highlighting the weight of unspoken words, the impact of suicide, and the need for support. Jillian discusses losing her brother, Brandon to suicide less than a year ago.  Her heartbreak and grief have been complicated by challenging family situations and her own pregnancy loss.Jillian emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and seeking help for those navigating this difficult experience of sibling loss.She shares how her grief for Brandon has been complicated and delayed due to multiple other primary and secondary losses as well as difficult circumstances that occurred prior to his death.Jillian’s experience with suicide loss and sibling loss highlights the unique challenges of grieving the loss of a sibling to suicide including a gamut of emotional experiences.Content Warning: Information presented in this episode may be upsetting to some people. It contains talk of suicide.If you are in the US and would like support for yourself or someone else with substance use, suicidal thoughts, or other topics discussed in this episode, please call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or Text your 5-digit ZIP Code to 435748 (HELP4U) or call a warmline. For more immediate crisis call 911, 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.If you believe you are witnessing an overdose, call 911 or your country’s emergency number immediately even if you are administering Narcan.In the USA an updated directory of warmlines by state can be found at https://warmline.org/warmdir.htmlA warmline directory for trained peer supports in over 20 countries can be found at https://www.supportiv.com/tools/international-resources-crisis-and-warmlines (some of these may be hotlines).Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Kassy’s Sibling Loss Story: Untimely, Unexpected, and Heartbreaking CircumstancesIn this episode, Dr. Dean speaks with Kassy Bowes about losing her younger sister, Rheanna, due to abdominal sepsis as a complication from a medical intervention. Listen as Kassy shares how losing her 19-year-old sister , Rheanna, shattered her world, challenged her beliefs in the afterlife, and how finding connection with Rheanna has helped her move with her grief.Content Warning: Information presented in this episode may be upsetting to some people. It contains talk of substance use, mental health stigma, and abortion. If you believe you are witnessing an overdose, call 911 or your country’s emergency number immediately even if you are administering Narcan. If you are in the US and would like support for yourself or someone else with substance use, suicidal thoughts, or other topics discussed in this episode, please call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or Text your 5-digit ZIP Code to 435748 (HELP4U) or call a warmline. For more immediate crisis call 911, 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.In the USA an updated directory of warmlines by state can be found at https://warmline.org/warmdir.htmlA warmline directory for trained peer supports in over 20 countries can be found at https://www.supportiv.com/tools/international-resources-crisis-and-warmlines (some of these may be hotlines)DISCLAIMER FOR THIS EPISODEThe Broken Pack exists to provide a platform for adult survivors of sibling loss to share their stories and to be heard. The views expressed by guest are those of the guest speaker and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast host or the Broken Pack organization.The Broken Pack acknowledges that the topic of abortion is polarizing and understands that different individuals hold varying viewpoints on the issue. The podcast host does emphasizes that the purpose of the episode is to focus on the guest speaker's experience as a sibling loss survivor. Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Sibling Loss Due to Brain Cancer:  Chris's Anticipatory Grief, Continuing Bonds, and Legacy-Building In this episode, of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss,  Dr. Dean speaks with surviving sibling Dr. Chris Ban, an oral surgeon and Jeopardy champion, who opens up about the anticipatory grief of and profound grief after losing his brother Michael to astrocytoma.Listen as Chris shares how learning to grieve his brother for the duration of his illness and after his death has affected him and how Chris maintains continuing bonds with Michael from music, sports, the arts, and even on Jeopardy.Drs. Ban and Dean discuss how sibling loss survivors in general and men, in particular, may find it difficult to talk about their grief, but that it is important to overcome this stigma and disenfranchisement and reach out for support.For more information on:Chris's Jeopardy appearance, honoring his brother: https://www.tvinsider.com/1097578/jeopardy-champion-chris-ban-brother-cancer/Michael McNaughton Ban Memorial Fund - https://pittsburghfoundation.org/michaelmcnaughtonbanThe Michael McNaughton Ban Memorial Boathouse- https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/51b65f93-0d02-48bc-8377-728a8ffd25a2For a book for children about being in the hospital, written by Chris's brother Michael, please see https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-at-Hospital-Michael-Ban/dp/1645438910Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Sibling Loss and Organ Donation: A Conversation with Katie KuehnIn this episode, Dr. Angela Dean explores sibling loss and organ donation with Katie Kuehn, who lost her brother Josh to a seizure. Josh was an organ donor, and Katie shares how his decision to give life to others has impacted her family and the importance of organ donation. She also vulnerably shares the impact that his gift of life to others has made upon her.  Katie and Dr. Dean  also delve into the challenges and opportunities of being a surviving sibling,  how the unique role that siblings play in each other's lives,  how their absence can create a void that is difficult to fill, and how different roles and relationships mean grieving the same person differently, including her sister, Kelly, who is interviewed in episode 6 of this season.To learn more about organ and tissue donation and to become a donor, please see:In the US:1. Donate Life America: https://donatelife.net2. United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) - https://unos.org/transplant/facts/For a list of organ donation organizations and information by regions in the world, please see https://tts.org/isodp-resources/isodp-organ-donation-societiesSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Coping with Sibling Loss: A Journey of Grief and Transformation with Stefanie JosephIn this episode of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss,  surviving sibling, Stefanie Joseph, shares her sibling loss experience of losing her sister Jen to bacterial meningitis during the pandemic. She shares how difficult losing her sister was and how her grief has influenced her work as a business coach and grief support specialist as well as changes in family dynamics, her somatic work, and her podcast (previously called and referenced to in the show as Moving Grief podcast).Key points:Navigating the unique challenges of sibling loss and grief.The importance of support and understanding for surviving siblings.Using somatic work to cope with grief and trauma.How sibling loss can affect family dynamics.Finding strength and meaning after sibling loss.Throughout the episode, Stefanie also discusses:How her experience has shaped her work as a business coach and grief support specialist. Continuing bonds with JenThe importance of raising awareness about the impact of sibling loss.To learn more about Stefanie, please visit:Her website: https://stefaniejoseph.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StefanieJosephBrand/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_stefaniejoseph/Her podcast ( previously called Moving Grief): Stefanie Joseph Podcast - surrendering to life's journeySupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

The Invisible Threads of  Sibling Loss and Surviving Siblings: A Conversation with Dr. Dawn DiRaimondoIn this episode of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss, a podcast, psychologist Dr. DiRaimondo shares her personal experience with sibling loss with our host, psychologist and thanatologist, Dr. Angela Dean. Together the psychologists, both sibling loss survivors explore and share insights for surviving siblings to cope with their grief.Dr. DiRaimondo noted that her heartbreaking loss of her brother Michael significantly changed her life and led her to specialize in grief and loss including sibling loss.  It also prompted her to write her book, Surviving Sibling Loss, the Invisible Thread that Connects us Through Life and Death in 2020.She shares her experiences with working with a medium and how that has influenced her grief process and her work.Dr. DiRaimondo  also describes how she and her sister have had to learn to grieve in their own ways in order  to support one another in their sibling loss.To learn more about Dr. DiRaimondo please see:Her Website: https://drdawndiraimondo.comHer Book: https://a.co/d/7Qervml (the kindle version includes some updates!)Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065513888713For resources mentioned in the show:When looking for a psychologist, therapist, or grief counselor, please ask them what their experience is with grief and loss when you schedule the appointment. To find a psychologist in the US: https://www.findapsychologist.org/To find a therapist on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/To find a psychologist in the UK: https://www.bps.org.uk/find-psychologistTo find a psychologist in the AUS: https://psychology.org.au/find-a-psychoSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Sibling Loss and Running with Grief: Jen's Grief MarathonIn this episode, surviving sibling, Jen, shares her transformative journey of grief and advocacy following the suicide loss of her brother and her inspiring process to run marathons to honor his memory and others who have died by suicide. She is a mental health advocate, marathoner, and writer. Jen also is currently serving on the Massachusetts chapter of the board member of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Discover how Jen’s journey of walking and running marathons helped her process her sibling loss grief and connect with others experiencing suicide and other loss.Early in her sibling loss journey, Jen tried to “be strong” and later realized that this was not a helpful approach. Listen to hear how her grief process has changed over time.Content Warning: Information presented in this episode may be upsetting to some people. It contains talk of suicide.If you are in the US and would like support for yourself or someone else with substance use, suicidal thoughts, or other topics discussed in this episode, please call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or Text your 5-digit ZIP Code to 435748 (HELP4U) or call a warmline. For more immediate crisis call 911, 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.If you believe you are witnessing an overdose, call 911 or your country’s emergency number immediately even if you are administering Narcan. In the USA an updated directory of warmlines by state can be found at https://warmline.org/warmdir.htmlA warmline directory for trained peer supports in over 20 countries can be found at https://www.supportiv.com/tools/international-resources-crisis-and-warmlines (some of these may be hotlines).For more information on the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:  https://afsp.org/More information on Jen is available at:Her Website: http://www.jenniferhoye.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen.and.pen/Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Judy’sTwice Experienced Sibling Loss: Her Delayed Grief and Celebration of Sisters In this episode our guest, author & two time sibling loss survivor, Judy Lipson recounts her journey of delayed grieving after losing both of her sisters at young ages.  Jane has been a surviving sibling since young adulthood losing both of her siblings, her sisters, Jane and Margie. Jane died in a motor vehicle accident and Marge died nine years later from an eating disorder. Judy experienced decades before she allowed herself to grieve.Judy struggled to grieve her sisters for decades, but eventually found solace in writing her book, “Celebration of Sisters: It’s Never Too Late to Grieve”Despite her outward success, Judy’s sibling losses left her feeling a void As a result, she struggled with guilt. Judy established an ice skating fundraiser called “Celebration of Sisters” to honor her sisters’ lives as they all enjoyed ice skating.Additional key points:Later in life, she embraced connecting with other bereaved siblings through writing and speaking about sibling loss and delayed grief.Judy’s story highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing grief, even decades after a loss, and the power of support in navigating the complex emotions of sibling loss.Since allowing herself to grieve, she has become a spokesperson for delayed griefTo find out more about Judy and her sisters:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyLipsonAuthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/celebofsisters/Purchase her book on amazon: https://a.co/d/5kMdHyOWebsite & to contact Judy: https://www.judylipson.org/Content Warning: Information presented in this episode may be upsetting to some people. It contains talk of eating disorder.For resources on Eating Disorders, please visit the website of the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) at https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/To watch the SpeakiSupport the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46

Surviving Sibling Loss and the Impact on IdentityIn this episode our guest, surviving sibling,  Elly shares with Dr. Dean about losing her life person, her sister, Laura, a talented musician. They explore how Laura’s death impacted her,  setting boundaries and navigating therapy in the UK.  Elly shares the changes in dynamics within the circles of family, friends and workplace  as well as how misunderstood sibling loss continues to be for her. Elly shares how she believed she wasn’t allowed to live life fully because of her sister’s death and the process of beginning to change that. She also describes the painful, yet rewarding, process of learning to cope with her grief.Support the Show.If you would like more information or to share your own adult sibling loss story, please contact me, Dr. Angela Dean, at contact@thebrokenpack.com or go to our website, thebrokenpack.com. Please like, subscribe, and share! Please follow us on social media:Facebook: @BrokenPackInstagram: @thebrokenpack TikTok: @the_broken_packYouTube: @thebrokenpackSign-up for Wild Grief™, our newsletter: https://thebrokenpack.com/newsletter Thank you!Angela M. Dean, PsyD, FTCredits:The Broken Pack™ Podcast is produced by 27 Elephants Media"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" © ℗ 2023, 2024 Written by Joe Mylward and Brian Dean Performed by Fuji Sounds (feat. MYLWD.) Licensed for use by The Broken Pack™ Now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music & Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3vx3kk46