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The Leftover Pieces; Suicide Loss Conversations
This podcast focuses on surviving life after a suicide loss, an experience that can be devastating and leave you feeling lost as you try to pick up the pieces of your shattered heart. The host, Melissa Bottorff-Arey, lost her 21-year-old son, Alex, to suicide on August 7, 2016, and brings (& often shares) her insights from her personal journey.
In each episode, Melissa engages in honest and challenging conversations with other survivors of loss, healers, and mental health experts. She also produces shorter solo episodes where she reflects on her own thoughts and experiences thus far. The podcast covers a wide range of relevant topics and addresses difficult questions. Melissa explores all aspects of grief, including trauma, hope, healing, self-care, legacy, and stigma. She believes that we learn to live alongside our grief rather than getting over it. Actual change comes through authentic, meaningful connections and mindful choices.
For supporters or educators, these conversations provide valuable insights and shine a light on suicide and grief genuinely and unapologetically. Listeners who are grieving a suicide loss can find comfort in the community and hope for a better tomorrow. Melissa aims to help others, like herself, transition from merely surviving to discovering a life filled with meaning and, potentially, even happiness amid the leftover pieces around you. You can always schedule a time to chat about being a guest from my main website.
[Please NOTE: This podcast is for only relational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It candidly and openly discusses sensitive and sometimes activating topics. There will be no in-depth or graphic descriptions of the method, but merely the possible mention of suicide, murder, rape, and the like. Be guided and care for yourself accordingly. Also, Melissa is not a doctor or licensed therapist, and nothing on this podcast should be taken in place of, or as, medical/mental health advice or recommendations.]
The Leftover Pieces; Suicide Loss Conversations
Welcome to May 21; "We're All Mad Here" DAILY Mental Health Nugget
"Hello --It is May 21st and welcome to Wonderland Fellow Griever. — “You’ve just stepped Down the Rabbit Hole — where mental health meets madness after loss. This is your daily dose of truth, grief, and yes, just the right bit of madness.”
WEEK 3: Control & Surrender
Day 21: Today’s truth (revisited) is: "I can't go back to yesterday..." Idea: Accepting life as it is now.
Let's revisit this truth: You can't go back. And it's cruel — because back there is where your loved one still lived. The pain of this loss is real and valid, and it's okay to feel it.
But forward doesn't mean forgetting. Forward means carrying. It means honoring. It means showing the world your resilience and strength.
Today, name one thing that remains—a memory, a ritual, a cherished keepsake. A part of your child's spirit is not lost; it's still present in your life, a comforting connection that will never fade. When you share stories or engage in activities they loved, you weave their essence into your ongoing journey.
We understand that this journey is not easy. You are not walking away from them. You are walking with them into what's next, embracing both the joy of your memories and future challenges. This ongoing journey is a testament to their enduring legacy that continues to shine through you.
So, that's all for now...that's your nugget today
Take a breath. Take what you need. leave the rest. And come back tomorrow because, remember, you're not broken—you're grieving. And you're not alone in this madness. ---I'll be right here Talk Soon."
AND Here is the Coupon Code: Podcast5 - to use at checkout
It is good for BOTH the "Because They Lived" Anthology Info & Submit HERE
and The One-on-One Coaching (for moms) HERE
Both coupons good through June 30, 2025 - Thank you for listening! - Melissa
[P.S... Like this podcast? Support the show by clicking...thank you]
SEE YOU TOMORROW!!!
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My WEBSITE "The Leftover Pieces; Rebuilding You" is support central.
If you, or someone you know, is struggling ww suicidal thoughts, reach out:
CALL 988 in the US or Canada OR, you can also TEXT the word "HOME" to 741741 in the USA & Canada