Each November, in our newsletter, I take time to acknowledge the loss of my son Brian. He is the reason for all I do with the Brian Dagle Foundation and Brian’s Healing Hearts. November 12, 2011, is when he left this earth. Fourteen years later, this day is difficult for all of us who were touched by the love Brian had for his family, friends, and community. This November 12th will mark fourteen years since he left us. Time is…
Continue ReadingSeptember was busy at the Brian Dagle Foundation. Just the last few days, we hosted Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a leading grief expert, for a public workshop on grief and a day-long workshop for over 150 therapists, social workers, clergy, nurses, and other caregivers and helpers on caring for people who are grieving. Events like this are only possible due to the financial support of people like you. In the nine months of 2025 so far, your donations have allowed us…
Continue ReadingSince losing Brian to suicide in 2011, I’ve been advocating, promoting, and talking about suicide prevention anywhere and everywhere. Espeically during September which is National Suicide Awareness Month. I’ve educated myself and now I teach others on the warning signs and risk factors of mental health and suicide. At every training session I always say, “If I knew then what I know now, maybe my life would be different.” I didn’t know the signs of someone struggling with their mental…
Continue ReadingQuestion: I see people promoting themselves as “grief experts.” When I attended your training, I think you mentioned that the true “expert” is the mourner. Can you expand on this? Your memory is correct – I have always maintained that the true expert in grief is the mourner.I do believe there is a real difference between studying a mysterious body of knowledge surrounding grief and committing yourself to helping people versus projecting oneself as a “grief expert.” The Companioning Model…
Continue ReadingAs we approach the second half of the year, it feels like a good time to reflect on the impact the Brian Dagle Foundation has had in the first half of 2025. It continues to amaze me how many people walk through the door at Healing Hearts or call, looking for opportunities to learn more about grief or suicide awareness. We are honored that so many of you would trust us with the most tender parts of your grief and…
Continue ReadingLast month’s newsletter on joy and grief sparked several conversations from our community: How do we find light in the midst of the darkness? Can we honestly hold joy and grief together? Some of you strongly declared that at this point in your grief – less than 2 years for some – it was a hard, “no.” There was no joy, no happiness. In fact, as one of our members described this moment in their life and grief as though…
Continue ReadingWhen you’re consumed by grief, it can feel like you’ll never feel joy again. And when you do, it can feel like you’re abandoning your grief or love your person less. Good news! Joy and grief co-exist. In fact, they must: healthy grief is made up of a mixture of sadness and joy and disappointment and hope. Here are a few ideas to start finding joy in your grief: Try one of these rituals for finding joy: Here are a…
Continue ReadingMay’s gentle arrival brings Mental Health Awareness Month, inviting us to embrace the rich tapestry of our emotional experiences with compassion and understanding. This month reminds us that acknowledging our feelings—whether bright joy, deep grief, quiet anxiety, or resilient hope—is fundamental to nurturing our overall wellbeing. For those navigating the winding path of grief, particularly those who carry the memory of a child in their hearts, this month offers meaningful validation that your mental health journey deserves attention and care.…
Continue ReadingGrief reminds us… Grief is simply our love with no place to go. Grief has no timeline. We never get over our loss. I use these words to try to comfort others who are grieving. I know all this is true. So why is it that on hard days like birthdays or death dates am I surprised at the rawness of my emotions? The brain says, “It’s been 14 birthdays without Brian. You’re used to this by now.” The heart…
Continue ReadingGrief often arrives unexpectedly, triggered by a song, a scent, or a memory that suddenly transports us back to our loss. During these moments, our bodies respond physically—perhaps with a tightening chest, a lump in the throat, or tears that seem to come from nowhere. Rather than immediately trying to “manage” these feelings away, there’s profound healing in allowing yourself to experience grief fully. Next time you feel grief rising, try this: Remember, grief isn’t something to “get over”—it’s something…
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