Do you know anyone who has not only survived unthinkable loss, but has gone on to do amazing things? I want to introduce you to two of my heroes in the field of grief and loss, Dr. Gloria and Dr. Heidi Horsley, founders of Open to Hope Foundation.
It was a rainy night when the Horsley family’s lives were forever changed. It was the shocking news that Gloria’s beloved son, Heidi’s 17 year old brother- Scott, along with his cousin had been killed in a horrific car accident. Gloria and Heidi will be the first to tell you there were times the grief was unbearable; and they weren’t sure they’d ever be able to move past such a painful loss.
Over time and through years of hard work, their hearts began to heal. Gloria and Heidi launched Open to Hope Foundation. The goal was to offer caring resources for anyone grieving the loss of a loved one. The phenomenal website has now touched over two million people in twenty six countries – through compelling articles, along with the award winning Grief Relief Radio and TV shows. This is a broadcast we recorded together called, “Finding Joy again After Loss.”
Gloria and Heidi are the real deal, with genuine caring hearts. Here are a few secrets they’ve taught me along the way:
1) There’s no time limit on grief. It takes as long as it takes, and each person’s journey is unique.
2) Don’t try this by yourself. A trusted friend or counselor who understands can really help. For anyone grieving the death of a child, the Compassionate Friends is an excellent place to connect with those who can relate to your loss.
3) Take care of yourself. One of the least selfish things you can do while grieving is to take time for yourself- get some fresh air, rest, exercise and eat good food.
4) It’s OK to always miss and honor someone you love. The goal is not to “get over” them, but to celebrate their life and keep them close to your heart.
If you are going through a difficult time of loss, please know you are not alone. I invite you to stop by Open to Hope’s beautiful site.
Thanks, Gloria and Heidi for showing the world there really can be extraordinary life, even after unthinkable loss.
I’m speaking this weekend at an event for moms who are grieving the loss of a beloved child. Wanted to re-post this story for anyone feeling alone and overwhelmed by grief right now.
