Grief and Loss

Dear Friend,

If you’ve lost someone I want you to know this: I see you. I understand some of your pain. I’ve been where you are—lost, overwhelmed, and unsure how to keep going.

In 2015, I lost my brother to suicide. It was the worst day of my life. The shock, the confusion, the heartbreak—it all came crashing in at once. And afterward, I was left trying to figure out how to live in a world that suddenly felt different and unfamiliar.

In the early days, I leaned on family and friends. They did their best to be there for me—and I’m grateful they were. But even with love and support around me, there was still a part of my grief I couldn’t explain, a depth of pain I didn’t know how to process. For years, I didn’t talk to a professional. I didn’t know how. I didn’t know if it would help. I just kept trying to hold everything together on my own.

But grief has a way of surfacing—again and again. Especially around anniversaries, birthdays, or quiet moments when you least expect it. Eventually, I reached out to a grief and loss therapist. Therapy didn’t “fix” me—but it helped me understand that I wasn’t broken. And honestly, I need to go more than I do. It gave me space to feel, to speak freely, and to begin healing in a deeper way.

If you’re in that place right now—trying to keep going, unsure whether you should reach out—I want you to know: you don’t have to do this alone. Grief is heavy, and there’s no shame in needing support. Whether you’ve spoken to no one or you’ve leaned on loved ones but still feel stuck—it’s okay to take the next step.

Today, I work at RPC, where I have the privilege of being part of a team that truly cares. If you’re struggling—whether with grief, depression, or simply feeling overwhelmed—we have therapists here who are ready to help. You don’t have to carry this pain alone. There is support, and it’s closer than you think.

So if you’re grieving today—or just trying to make it to tomorrow—please carry this with you:

• You are allowed to feel lost.
• You are allowed to need help—even if it’s been years.
• You are not a burden.
• You are not alone.
• You are doing the best you can, and that is enough.

I will always carry my brother with me. His life, his memory, and his love continue to guide me. And maybe, in your own time and way, your love and your story will guide you too.

Until then, take care of yourself. Speak when you're ready. Reach out when you can. We’re here when you need us.

With care and understanding,
Melody

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