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.
The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations
Welcome to May 29; "We're All Mad Here" DAILY Mental Health Nugget
"Hello --It is May 29th 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 5: The 3 Day Wrap -up for the Month
Day 29: Today’s truth is: (Finale echo) "I can't go back to yesterday..." Idea: Reinforcing transformation.
We began this month with this truth and return to it now — because some truths don’t get easier, only more familiar.
You can’t go back. And that’s a heartbreak you’ll carry. But remember, you've also carried your love. Your memory. Your child's spirit-all the way to this moment. That's a testament to your resilience.
So today, take a moment to acknowledge your emotional journey. What has shifted in you this month? What feels a fraction lighter, clearer, or braver?
You didn’t go back. But you did move. And that’s not just something; it's a significant step forward in your journey.
So, let's end here. That's your truth - your nugget for today.
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
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."
[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
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Get THE Leftover Pieces APP & don't miss anything! CLICK HERE
💜 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.