Jennifer Oldham lived through a moment no parent ever imagines—when an ordinary day turned tragic, in the blink of an eye. A sudden storm. A fallen tree. And the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Hallie.

In the quiet, in the pain, and in the love that endures, she has found the strength to speak—about what happened, how she’s still standing, and holding on to memories while learning to live again. How she is Keeping Kindness for Hallie. And sharing her powerful story of survival after child loss.

Links to our conversation with Jennifer:

Kindness Keepers for Hallie: https://kindnesskeepersforhallie.org/

Keeping Kindness for Hallie FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/383574890577429

Emily Graham (Grief Recovery Method Specialist): https://kindnesskeepersforhallie.org/

Faith's Lodge: https://www.childlossfoundation.org/

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Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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Austin Ashmore's spirit continues to impact the world, long after his life was tragically cut short by an accidental drug overdose. This podcast is the story of a mother’s plea to have others remember her son for how he lived, not how he died. He deserves that, and so does she. We uncover the legacy Austin left behind, in conversations, and the quiet strength of a mother’s love. 

To join the Facebook Group "Austin's Legacy" email: [email protected]

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Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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“It was the worst day of my life, but I’ve always been grateful for having him for 33 years.” Reaching the 10-year milestone since the passing of her 33-year-old son Wayne, Lena  is finding solace in helping others embrace their grief journeys through a national network called The Compassionate Friends. But along the way, she’s also discovered she is helping herself live more fully, and more intentionally every day, for herself, and for her son.

Links to resources from our interview with Lena Hann: 

The Compassionate Friends grief support groups: https://www.compassionatefriends.org/

Lena Hann, The Compassionate Friends Facilitator in  Lewiston, Maine.              Email Lena: [email protected]

Grief Educator David Kessler: https://grief.com

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Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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Losing a child, on it’s own, is more than enough to bear in one lifetime. But imagine losing three brothers before that and witnessing your mother’s unimaginable grief while navigating sibling loss. Then, in a 17-month span, watching both of your parents die. And two years later, hearing the news that your only child, at just 22 years of age, was killed in a car accident. Darlene Sforza calls this layered grief. As she searches for her purpose in life, along the way, she is finding hope in sharing her story of survival, and grace, in honoring her son Matthew. 

Links to episode content:

www.griefshare.org

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Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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Sibling relationships often have a unique dynamic, shaped by shared experiences and a deep, sometimes, unspoken bond. Margaret was just 13 when her older sister and best friend Maiah, died in a tragic accident. Adolescent grief can have a profound impact on your life. Five years later, and now just 18 years old, you’ll be inspired by her mature, charming, real, and insightful perspective on sibling loss.

We have opened a listener line! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, leave us a voicemail message. Some of your comments might even be used in a future Holding the Light podcast episode. You are also welcome to let us know what you think of the episode, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest.

The number to call the listener line and leave a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

What did you think? Share your feedback in a text message.

Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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The holidays are here, and for those grieving the loss of someone they love, it can be so challenging. Our guest not only understands this as a grief support facilitator, but also as a widow, who lost her husband in her 20s, while raising their 3-year-old daughter. Lots to share in this special episode, including suggestions and resources to help your grieving hearts, and ways you can support bereaved friends and family this holiday season. 

If you or someone you love is struggling, there is help by dialing the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988. 

Sarah Kilch Gaffney's website can be found at https://www.sarahkilchgaffney.com

For more information about Camp Ray of Hope: https://www.sarahkilchgaffney.com/news/camp-ray-of-hope-2024

The ShineOnCass Blue Christmas Ceremony will be held Saturday, Dec. 21st at 4pm at the Oakland Gazebo. https://www.shineoncass.org/blue-christmas-ceremony.html
To have your loved one's name read aloud and receive a blue light, submit here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAZRPy4OKCbzPPx5F1TOe0A7Ss1k_UoZEEu9bFhDcvnelIow/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0

For local bereavement support groups offered through Hospice Volunteers Waterville Area: https://www.hvwa.org/

What did you think? Share your feedback in a text message.

Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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In 2013 Samantha Banerjee was pregnant with her first child, she lovingly named, Alana. Nearing the end of a textbook pregnancy and just days away from meeting her baby girl, the unthinkable happened. Alana died from stillbirth. And thus began Samantha’s empowering grief journey that has captured national attention through tireless advocacy for stillbirth awareness and prevention. 

Samantha, who lives in New York with her husband and two healthy children, is nationally-renowned within the loss community for her candid writing on grief and has been featured in The Washington Post, TODAY, ProPublica, and ABC News. 

To learn more about Samantha's advocacy work with PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy, visit pushpregnancy.org.

What did you think? Share your feedback in a text message.

Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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October 11, 2024 marks 10 long years since Cassidy died. She would be 27 this year. I never thought I’d still be here, but here I am. Not only have I survived, but I have learned to live again, just differently. I’m living WITH my grief. This episode is a personal reflection on my journey. I’m here to share 10 things I have learned about grief in 10 years, including the wealth of knowledge I have gained from bearing witness to other parents’ grief in this podcast. Thank you for listening.

What did you think? Share your feedback in a text message.

Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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**This conversation includes references to violence, including experiences of a mass shooting, traumatic grief, and other details unsuitable for young children. This recording is prohibited from being copied or reproduced without permission.***

Losing a loved one to murder creates unique and complicated grief like no other. Vicki Roy is here to talk about her traumatic bereavement following Maine’s worst Mass Shooting that claimed the life of her brother Michael Deslauriers. She bravely shares how her grief unfolded amidst the public chaos, re-traumatization of the ongoing investigation, and the unexpected feelings of losing her only brother, to something else. We honor Mike, his family, and the many people affected by this tragedy who are now navigating their personal grief journeys.

What did you think? Share your feedback in a text message.

Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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There is something to be said about a mother’s intuition. Sandy Fisher knew something was wrong the day her 18-year-old son, Scott Junior, died by suicide. He had just entered college. Now, after 18 years of grieving his loss, and even an attempted suicide herself, she is courageously sharing her experience and knowledge. Her mission? To help students, parents, friends, and educators recognize the warning signs, ask the right questions, and seek help. 

Dial 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Suicide prevention and educational resources shared in this podcast:

• Maine Suicide Prevention: NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): namimaine.org
• American Foundation of Suicide Prevention: afsp.org
• Suicide Prevention/Education in Maine Schools: namimaine.org/suicide-prevention/suicide-prevention-in-schools

What did you think? Share your feedback in a text message.

Holding the Light is an original, monthly podcast created and hosted by Monica and Colby Charette, edited and produced by Monica Charette, with support from Julia Vigue and Sophia Speeckaert. EMAIL US ([email protected]) with questions, comments, or a request to join us as a guest. We also welcome you to visit us at ShineOnCass (www.shineoncass.org) where our family continues to Shine the Light of Cassidy.

Our podcast’s theme music is As Long As You Love (Scarlet Wings) written and sung by Cindy Bullens, from the album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth produced by Blue Lobster Records (1999). Available on CD or download at www.cidnybullens.com. Mention Holding the Light Podcast and receive a signed copy!

We want to hear from YOU. Leave us a voicemail! If there is something you’ve learned in your grief journey that might be helpful for others, we invite you to leave us a message. We will listen to every one. Some might even be used in a future episode. You can also let us know what you think of our podcast, suggest a topic, or request to be a guest. The number to call and leave us a voicemail is: 617-302-7373. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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