What does it mean to truly start over after unimaginable loss?  From learning how to ask for help in her "season of yes," to the strength it took to finally take off her wedding ring, Christie Salava's story is raw, honest, and inspiring—and a powerful reminder that you’re never alone, even in your darkest moments!

Here are 5 key takeaways:

1. The Power of Saying "Yes" to Support Christie shared valuable advice she received early in her journey: embrace a "season of yes." She learned to accept help from friends, community, and anyone offering support—even when it felt uncomfortable or humbling. By saying yes, she allowed others to be part of her healing and recognized the importance of not walking through grief alone.
2. Profound Shifts in Marriage and Caregiving Christie’s story illustrates how illness can transform a loved one and a marriage. She discussed the pain of watching her husband Andy’s personality change due to his brain tumor and treatments—moving quickly from the man she knew to someone unrecognizable, and the difficult task of protecting her children from those changes while navigating her own grief.
3. Reminders That Healing and Moving Forward Aren’t Betrayals The episode deeply explored the emotional complexity of moving forward—especially when it came to taking off her wedding ring and moving out of the family home. Christie expressed her internal tug-of-war between honoring Andy and embracing new chapters.
4. Honesty as a Cornerstone of Healing Christie emphasized the importance of being honest—with herself, her children, her support system, and with God. She explained that allowing herself to voice her true feelings, needs, and struggles enabled her to receive comfort and support.
5. Cultivating Hope for the Future While honoring her past, Christie shared her growing hope and openness to finding love again—without diminishing the love she still holds for Andy. She highlighted how both personal growth and the courage to tackle challenges (like solo road trips and relocating her family) have helped rebuild her confidence and inspire her children by example.

This episode is full of heartfelt, vulnerable moments and practical wisdom for anyone navigating loss and the journey toward healing.

Be sure to join us again for Part 2 with Christie in an upcoming episode!

Need support for feeling more confident moving into your Chapter 2? Check out the Boost Your Confidence Level After Loss Workbook! Go to https://www.widow180.com/confidence and get the instant download PDF today!

Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927

Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/

Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ

For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com

Questions? Email me at [email protected]