In this deeply moving episode of the Surviving Siblings Podcast, host Maya Roffler welcomes Michelle Tobin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, and author, who shares her emotional journey of losing her brother Patrick in a devastating plane crash. Michelle reflects on the lasting impact of this loss, how it shaped her career in mental health, and the unexpected ways grief has woven itself into her life’s work. She opens up about trauma, healing, and the importance of finding outlets for grief, including writing, physical movement, and faith.

Michelle’s story is one of resilience, personal transformation, and hope as she discusses how she carried her brother’s memory with her for 50 years, culminating in the release of her novel, Home for the Bewildered. This powerful episode offers insight and comfort for anyone navigating sibling loss and seeking ways to move forward while keeping their loved ones close.

In This Episode:

(0:01:18) - Growing Up in a Large Family Michelle paints a picture of her family dynamics, growing up as one of twelve children, and the deep admiration she had for her older brother Patrick.

(0:04:36) - The Night of the Tragedy Michelle recounts the eerie feeling she and her sister had the night before Thanksgiving, followed by the heartbreaking moment they learned of Patrick’s passing.

(0:06:28) - Processing Grief as a Teenager Michelle reflects on the immediate aftermath of Patrick’s passing, the difficulties of not having closure due to a closed casket, and how grief was handled in her family during the 1970s.

(0:14:53) - The Five-Year Mark and a Divine Intervention Michelle shares the moment she experienced a divine intervention, a turning point in her healing journey, and how she found solace through swimming and faith.

(0:21:12) - The Importance of Physical Outlets for Grief Maya and Michelle discuss how physical activity, whether it be swimming, running, or walking, can serve as a powerful release for trauma and emotional pain.

(0:27:17) - Giving Yourself Grace in the Grieving Process Michelle emphasizes the importance of allowing yourself to grieve in your own way, shutting out societal pressures, and leaning into people who offer true support.

(0:46:21) - Writing Home for the Bewildered 50 Years Later Michelle discusses how her novel was inspired by her brother’s death and the themes of grief, trauma, and healing embedded in her writing. She also explains the significance of setting the novel in 1974, the year Patrick passed away.

(0:50:56) - Where to Find Michelle’s Book Michelle shares how listeners can purchase Home for the Bewildered directly from Vine Leaves Press and connect with her through her website and social media.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of loss, resilience, and finding light after tragedy. Michelle’s story is a testament to the power of healing, self-discovery, and embracing hope, no matter how many years have passed.

This episode is sponsored by Home for the Bewildered written by Michelle Tobin. 

Connect with Michelle: 

• Website: https://www.michelle-tobin.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle57writes

• Tik Tok: @michelletobin7

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088688944743

• Purchase Her Book Here: https://vineleavespress.myshopify.com/products/home-for-the-bewildered

Connect with Maya:

• Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingsiblingspodcast/

• Maya's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayaroffler/

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@survivingsiblingspodcast

• Twitter: https://x.com/survivingsibpod

• Website: thesurvivingsiblings.com

• Facebook Group: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

• YouTube: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheSurvivingSiblingsPodcast