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In this heart-rending episode of The Day After, our hosts Ashley Infantino and CJ Infantino welcome Genna to share her journey through grief, trauma, and healing. Genna opens up about the immense pressure and guilt she felt due to societal expectations and how grief has profoundly transformed her identity at a cellular level. She delves into her experiences with somatic therapies like EMDR, which have been pivotal in her emotional healing process.

Listeners will hear Genna's raw account of dealing with the sudden loss of her mother and the prolonged suffering of her father, both of whom passed within a few short years. Genna recounts the significant role her adventurous and supportive mother played in her life, and how she initially resisted but eventually embraced her mother’s spirit to live life to the fullest. With the support of her husband, Genna courageously undertook physical challenges she never thought possible, like a 60-mile hike in Glacier National Park.

Throughout the episode, Genna emphasizes the necessity of living fully despite grief, drawing inspiration from her mother’s adventurous spirit. She discusses navigating complex emotions related to anxiety, depression, and the guilt of not being able to help her parents more, despite her professional background as a paramedic. Her honest reflections on therapy, the importance of mental health investment, and overcoming personal limitations under her husband's encouragement provide both moving and practical insights.

We also explore Genna’s unique cultural and religious experiences, particularly how she managed to adhere to Jewish funeral customs while facing institutional pressures. The episode closes with Genna reflecting on memorable moments she shared with her parents, her ongoing healing journey, and a poignant reminder to listeners about the importance of emotional resilience and living a full life.

Join us for an episode filled with genuine conversations, therapeutic insights, and powerful memories that resonate deeply with anyone who has faced or is facing grief and loss.

A personal note from the hosts: After much reflection, we've decided that this season of "The Day After" will be our final one. It has been a profound honor to share this journey through grief with all of you. As CJ steps back to focus on other ventures, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your support, your stories, and your willingness to navigate these difficult conversations alongside us. Though the podcast is ending, we hope the conversations about grief and loss continue, and that our episodes remain a resource for those who need them. If you've found comfort in our discussions, Ashley and Liz will continue Sit, Lay, Rest - our pet grief podcast - you can follow them on Instagram at @sitlayrest. Thank you for being part of our community.

Music by Servidio Music