Episode 156 | Michele’s Story - Child loss and the sibling relationships

On this week's episode of the podcast, Katie interviews Michele Benyo, a Certified Grief Specialist who helps families navigate the loss of a child with a focus on sibling relationships. Michele experienced the loss of her 6 year old son due to cancer. Michele shares how her daughter still maintained her relationship with her son in the midst of several long hospitalizations and how she processed the loss of her brother.

*trigger warning-- this episode talks about loss and grief *

[4:15] Michele Introduces herself

[5:47] How her career and experience with losing a child collided

[7:30] Helping families cope with grief and loss

[8:45] How her 3 year old articulated her loss

[11:40] Even at 15 months Michele's daughter could tell something was wrong

[13:24] Her daughter came with to see her brother frequently

[15:15] The visits prepared her for reality

[17:59] There is no right way to process grief

[21:29] Her daughter was aware of the seriousness of the situation

[22:46] The radiation chemo took a toll on his body

[23:20] Learning how to say the word 'die'

[25:40] On the plane with a family from their school

[26:55] Preparation helped her cope with his death

[28:40] Unsettling for. young children to not be aware of what is happening

[30:50] Sharing about her daughter after her son's death

[32:31] Asking about what grade David would be in

[33:54] Middle School was challenging at times

[35:48] How her daughter adjusts her perspective and compassion through her wisdom of the loss of her brother

[37:24] Parenting from the heart

Connect with Michele

Guide to Good Grief

Instagram

Website

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