Parenting After Loss

Coming to Terms

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The simple phrase suggests contracts and litigation. For me, it's a complex, daily practice in grieving my son's death from Tay-Sachs.

Leaning In, My Way

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I dove into back into work after my daughter was born. As a motherless mother, I soon realized I'd made the wrong choice.

Store Credit

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In the aftermath of my husband's death, my friends bought me potted plants. I promptly returned them — unable to contemplate caring for another living thing. Fourteen years on, what would it mean to use my credit at the florist?

Recital Envy

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At my daughters' concerts and school performances, I see all the happy grandparents, snapping photos and bearing flowers. That's when I feel my own mother's loss most acutely.

No Man’s Land

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Between the time we decided to stop treatment and the time my baby son died, I felt desperately alone — pulled between my ‘cancer family’ still fighting to save their children and the bereaved families on the other side of this battle.

Parenting After Loss

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It can be hard to know if my children are reacting to their father's death — or if they're just acting their age.

A Race Against Time

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Throughout my daughter's illness — and in the aftermath of her death — my treadmill has been a loyal companion.

To Be a Motherless Mother on Mother’s Day

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Five years after my mom’s sudden death, the birth of my son returned to me something I had been missing.

How To: Talk To Your Kids About Your (Late) Parents

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Five tips for talking to your kids about your late parents.

My Father, My Daughters

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My twins were just 18 months old when my father died. Desperate for my girls to know him, I talk about him constantly. But should I?

Parentless Parents: A Primer

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Without mom or dad there to witness the milestone, the transition to parenthood can be fraught — but also healing.

Modern Loss’ Grief Reads

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Some Modern Loss-approved essays, articles, radio shows and multimedia features taking on loss and grief of all kinds.

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