Scattering CJ; A Global Community from the Ashes Artwork

The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations

Suicide loss changes everything. This show is about life after suicide—real talk and practical support for grief after suicide: parents, partners, siblings, and friends finding their footing again. Each week, we explore what helps in suicide bereavement so you can keep going with honesty and hope.

Hosted by Melissa Bottorff-Arey, whose 21-year-old son, Alex, died by suicide in 2016, the podcast blends intimate conversations with survivors, healers, and mental health experts with short solo “Daily Nugget” episodes you can actually use. We cover child loss, trauma and nervous-system care, anniversaries and seasons, stigma, faith and meaning, legacy, and the everyday practices that make life livable again. You’ll hear grounded tools, language that honors your person, and the reminder that you are not broken—you are grieving.

For supporters and educators, these episodes offer insight into the realities of suicide grief and what genuine, non-fixing support looks like. If you’d like to share your story or expertise, you can request to be a guest via my website. 💜

Content Note
This podcast speaks candidly about difficult experiences and may feel activating. We avoid method details and graphic description. Please care for yourself as needed. I’m not a doctor or licensed therapist; nothing here is medical or mental-health advice.

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The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations

Scattering CJ; A Global Community from the Ashes

September 04, 2022 • Season 4 • Episode 5

Today I share an amazing story about how one mom dug deep into her broken mom's heart and honored her child. We talk about the common feeling and challenges that unite all of us that have had our lives shattered by suicide but we also honor the uniqueness that is each of our children.

WATCH "Scattering CJ" ALL month on PBS in your area OR stream any time right from the
WEBSITE HERE

Hallie Twomey carries a burden of guilt surrounding her 20-year-old son CJ’s death which has molded her into a life of advocacy. She turns to her husband John and son Connor for support both emotionally and physically but also knows that helping others, helps her. Hallie labors through her guilt by talking openly and honestly, as often as possible, to anyone that will listen. She shares in raw detail about the nightmare CJ’s death has left behind in hopes that his story may help prevent others from following in his footsteps.

Scattering CJ was an idea born out of Hallie’s need to do something more for her son. Although it was her idea, to begin with, it would not have been possible without the full support of both John and Connor. Over the past 8 years, all three have opened themselves to this journey and trusted that it was the right decision. They collectively agree that CJ’s journey on this planet wasn’t over and that his 'larger than life personality should travel far and wide. They are all humbled and honored by the response Scattering CJ has received and owe a debt of gratitude to all those who now consider themselves a part of the Scattering CJ community.

WATCH "Scattering CJ" ALL month on PBS in your area OR stream any time right from the
WEBSITE HERE

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My WEBSITE "The Leftover Pieces; Rebuilding You" support central - MY HUB - and that means my different SUPPORT GROUP Options are available. Go DIRECTLY to my SUPPORT page here where you will find ALL of the ways to connect and find support. My first two books (tools I am creating for you!) in the "Facing Life After Suicide" series are available on Amazon

If you, or someone you know, is struggling with suicidal thoughts PLEASE reach out:

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💜 The Leftover Pieces is support central for grieving hearts.
🔗 Stay connected: Join my free email community for weekly check-ins, resources, and encouragement.
🌟 For moms: Explore the $9 Lighthouse Community — safe connection, tools, and hope.
🛠 Resources for all grievers: Start here.
🤝 One-on-one grief coaching for moms after child loss to suicide: Learn more here.
📞 Need help now? If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, dial 988 in the U.S. & Canada, or text HOME to 741741.