While We're Waiting® - Hope After Child Loss
This is a podcast FOR bereaved parents BY bereaved parents. Join your host, Jill Sullivan, as she talks with parents who have lost children of all ages to all types of circumstances. This is a podcast of stories ... stories of devastating loss and grief and heartbreak and struggle ... and stories of hope and healing and faith, and yes, even joy. Underlying every conversation will be the hope we have in Jesus Christ, which makes it possible to not just survive the loss of a child, but to live well while we're waiting to see them again in Heaven one day. Visit our website at www.WhileWereWaiting.org for more information about our nonprofit ministry to bereaved parents.
While We're Waiting® - Hope After Child Loss
303 | Branches of Grace (Part Two) with Tom and Heather Snyir
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“You’re not broken… you’re becoming.” ~Tom Snyir
In this second half of our conversation, Tom and Heather Snyir share what life has looked like in the days, months, and years since their daughter Katie Rae went to Heaven.
We talk about the realities of everyday grief - navigating the things people say, learning to live with “grief brain,” and facing simple questions that suddenly feel anything but simple.
Tom and Heather also reflect on how grief has changed them - how it’s reshaped their perspective, their relationships, and the way they move through the world.
Tom opens up about his personal journey with PTSD, depression, and suicidal thoughts, and the people and faith that helped carry him through. He also shares about his devotional book, Branches of Grace, and the message of hope it offers to those walking through trauma and loss.
This conversation is honest, practical, and full of insight for anyone navigating life after the loss of a child.
Key Takeaways
- Presence matters more than words when supporting someone in grief
- You are allowed to set boundaries and protect your heart
- Grief changes you ... and that doesn’t mean something is wrong
- You don’t have to walk through dark seasons alone
- Healing and pain can exist side by side
Resources & Mentions
- Tom's book: Branches of Grace: Devotions from the Front Lines of Faith is available on Amazon. Click HERE to find it.
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988
** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry.
We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting!
Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parents
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Contact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org
