My friend Susan Siddoway (active LDS, married, mother of 6 and grandmother to 13) shared story of her daughter Holly who left the church, identified as bisexual, struggled with addiction, was single and pregnant and died at age 33 in 2019.

Susan shares gospel principles, doctrinal insights and church leader statements that strengthened her love and support for her daughter. She talks of the light and knowledge that came to her about Holly’s journey here on earth, how she was so much more than someone who left the church and had addictions. She saw Holly as a beloved child of Heavenly Parents, who was serving and helping others. Susan tells of the many people who lined up to speak to her after Holly’s funeral services, telling about the light she had been to them and how she blessed their lives.

She speaks of the heartbreaking decision Holly made to place her baby for adoption. Her strong feeling that a gay couple should adopt. The wonderful relationship Susan and her family have with these two wonderful married women who adopted their granddaughter. It is a beautiful family love story.

If you are looking for peace and hope because your children have left the church, Susan’s story will help you. She has been on this road for 15 years and has the long-view to bring you hope, peace, perspective and to not feel like you are a failure as an LDS parent.

I was deeply touched listening to Susan share her story. I believe you will be too. Thank you Susan for being on the podcast. You are brave. Your story will help many.

Links:

Holly’s Obituary:

https://www.wheelermortuaries.com/obituary/Holly-Siddoway

Facebook Group of LDS Parent with Children No Longer Attending:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1139458306236720