The Surviving Siblings®

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that this episode contains depictions and stories of siblings lost by suicide, homicide and/or domestic violence. We understand that some people may find these triggering, activating and/or disturbing.

How can you grapple with the devastating pain of losing a sibling to addiction and transform it into a beacon of strength? Emily's older brother Peter was a quintessential jokester with a magnetic personality that knew no bounds. But behind the mask, he waged a war against depression that led him down a spiraling path of opioid addiction.

Emily reveals the deeply personal of her family's battle with addiction, the impact of her parents' divorce on Peter, and the crippling belief he held that he was the cause of their separation. The episode further traverses the rocky terrain of coping with loss and grief. Emily shares the confusion she felt at trying to deal with such a loss at only 13 and the need to feel like a normal teenager. This conversation takes an introspective turn as Emily discusses her decision to enlist in the military in honor of Peter's once shared dreams. The therapy, discovery of her ADHD, and the supportive leadership proved to be a transformative experience for her. Emily carries her brother's values and legacy in her life as a testament to his influence. Laced with an exploration of the opioid crisis, Emily's story is a powerful reminder of the complexities of grief, the importance of communication, and the lasting legacy of a loved one.

In this episode we are covering:

(0:18:27) - Family Struggles With Addiction

(0:29:58) - The Impact of a Tragic Loss at 13

(0:36:15) - Funeral Planning and Seeking Normalcy

(0:44:54) - Impact and Legacy of a Loved One

(0:50:01) - Multiple Losses and Coping With Grief

(1:04:39) - Military and Therapy

This Episode is sponsored by The Surviving Siblings Guide. ✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with Emily:

Emily's Facebook: Emily Heim

Emily's Linkedin: Emily Heim

Connect with Maya:

Podcast Instagram: @survivingsiblingpodcast

Maya's Instagram: @mayaroffler

TikTok: @survivingsiblingspodcast

Twitter: @survivingsibpod

Website: Thesurvivingsiblings.com

Facebook Group: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon: The Surviving Siblings Podcas

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that this episode contains depictions and stories of siblings lost by suicide, homicide and/or domestic violence. We understand that some people may find these triggering, activating and/or disturbing.

Meet Jordon Ferber, a surviving sibling who's traversed the labyrinth of loss through a mix of tender reflection, candid conversations, and a dash of humor. Jordon recounts the larger-than-life story of his younger brother Russell - an inspiring young man who managed to charm the New York Knicks at the tender age of 13. Jordon shares the story of Russell's exciting life throughout the celebrity chef world and is burning passion that kept him succeeding.

In this episode, Jordon and I unpack the surreal moments at the morgue, the unexpected triggers that bring memories flooding back, and our unique paths through the darkest times. From scattering ashes in favorite places, to getting tattoos in remembrance, we find solace and sometimes even humor in the rituals of grief. We also confront societal norms around male grief, challenging the damaging stereotype of men 'rubbing dirt in it and getting back out there'. Jordon also shares his experiences with Compassionate Friends, a peer support network that played a crucial role in his grief journey. Join us for this touching, inspiring, and even occasionally humorous exploration of sibling loss.

In the episode we're covering:

(0:13:45) - Surviving Siblings Bond and Share Memories

(0:25:51) - Coping With Tragic News and Loss

(0:29:45) - Grief, Family, and Unexpected Moments

(0:38:27) - Grieving and Finding Humor in Mourning

(0:55:37) - Compassionate Friends in Grief Journey

(1:11:29) - Breaking Societal Stereotypes of Male Grief

This Episode is sponsored by The Surviving Siblings Guide. ✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with Jordon:

Jordon's Instagram: @beatniknudnik

Facebook: Where's The Grief

Instagram: @wheresthegrief

Twitter: @wheresthegrief

Facebook: Russell Ferber Foundation

Instagram: @RussellFerberFoundation

Connect with Maya:

Podcast Instagram: @survivingsiblingpodcast

Maya's Instagram: @mayaroffler

TikTok: @survivingsiblingspodcast

Twitter: @survivingsibpod

Website: Thesurvivingsiblings.com

Facebook Group: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that this episode contains depictions and stories of siblings lost by suicide, homicide and/or domestic violence. We understand that some people may find these triggering, activating and/or disturbing.

For years Christine answered multiple 'goodbye calls' from her brother Pete. Finding him in the midst of attempted suicides. Their family supported him through life changes, diagnosis and therapies but in the end, he was unable to fight the illness.

In this episode, we discuss the emotions that come with being the support person to a loved one with mental health issues during their ups and downs. How Christine faced the "what if" questions that come along with grief after suicide loss. We also have an important discussion on mental health and stigma that surrounds it.

In this episode we are covering:

(00:03:50) - Depression throughout Peter's life

(00:33:00) - Peter's last days

(00:43:42) - Understanding his last moments

(00:48:00) - Society's view Mental Health

This Episode is sponsored by The Surviving Siblings Guide. ✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with Christine:

Christine's Instagram: @christinebee33

Christine's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christine.bartlett3

Connect with Maya:

Podcast Instagram: @survivingsiblingpodcast

Maya's Instagram: @mayaroffler

TikTok: @survivingsiblingspodcast

Twitter: @survivingsibpod

Website: Thesurvivingsiblings.com

Facebook Group: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that this episode contains depictions and stories of siblings lost by suicide, homicide and/or domestic violence. We understand that some people may find these triggering, activating and/or disturbing.

Lori always saw herself as her brother, Brian's protector and still fills that role after his death, preserving his story and legacy. Lori took on the responsibility of taking a first look a Brian's stolen car, of what she thought at the time was his murder weapon. Next to taking the lead in planning his day of celebration and staying an active part of his subsequent murder investigation.

In this episode, Lori shares her understanding of the legal proceedings, the emotional exhaustion that accompanies them, and the importance of preserving Brian's legacy. Lori shares her journey through therapists and how her now grief coach has helped address her anger. We touch on Lori's plans to give back by becoming a certified court-appointed special advocate for foster children. We also discuss the importance of being self-aware and managing emotions, especially within your family.

This Episode is sponsored by The Surviving Siblings Guide. ✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

In this episode we are covering:

(0:00:00) - Sharing Stories of Sibling Loss

(0:14:06) - Uncovering a Murder Investigation

(0:26:19) - Navigating Grief and Protecting Sibling's Story

(0:51:06) - Finding the Right Therapist

(0:56:37) - Legal Process and Victim Impact Statements

Connect with Lori:

Lori's Instagram: @LoriLuna

Connect with Maya:

Podcast Instagram: @survivingsiblingpodcast

Maya's Instagram: @mayaroffler

TikTok: @survivingsiblingspodcast

Twitter: @survivingsibpod

Website: Thesurvivingsiblings.com

Facebook Group: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon: The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Elizabeth opens up about her family's profound struggle when her brother, Ted, was diagnosed with rare blood disorder aplastic anemia. Their innocent childhood turned into a harsh reality as Ted spent eight years in a laminar air flow room at the National Institutes of Health. Elizabeth recounts their childhood inside the hospital, his illness, and the impact his sudden death had on each family member.

In this episode, Elizabeth highlights Ted's positive attitude despite being unable to leave a hospital room or protective suit. Elizabeth also shares her journey to understand the grief she experienced at such a young hand. This discussion brings to light the often-overlooked impact of sibling loss, and the importance of recognizing and processing grief. Through the experiences of 77 siblings Elizabeth interviewed for her book, "The Empty Room: Understanding Sibling Loss", she uncovers the common themes and understanding within this unique grief experience.

We discuss the gradual shift in understanding from the dated idea of 'getting over' loss to the more complex concept of maintaining continuing bonds with the deceased. The conversation concludes with Elizabeth's reflections on her parents' reactions to her writing a book about her experience.

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

This Episode is sponsored by The Surviving Siblings Guide. ✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE

In the episode I'm covering:

(0:00:01) - Ted's eight years in a hospital

(0:11:36) - The Journey of a Rare Disease

(0:22:08) - Mediums, Grief, and Writing a Book

(0:28:07) - Sibling Loss and Grief Complexity

(0:44:12) - Family, Loss, and Identity

Connect with Elizabeth:

Website: FindingTedDevita.com

Elizabeth's Email: [email protected] - Please put 'sibling loss' in the subject line.

Elizabeth's Facbook: Elizabeth.devitaraeburn

Elizabeth's Book: The Empty Room: Understanding Sibling Loss

Connect with Maya:

Podcast Instagram: @survivingsiblingpodcast

Maya's Instagram: @mayaroffler

TikTok: @survivingsiblingspodcast

Twitter: @survivingsibpod

Website: Thesurvivingsiblings.com

It's hard to believe that we are wrapping up Season Three, and Maya is back for her recap of the season. Maya will be discussing her personal takeaways from each guest as well as give recommendations for particular episodes depending on your own grief journey.

Maya is also sharing where she is in her grief journey six and a half years after losing her brother to a homicide. She is excited to share her epiphanies over the past six months and some key takeaways from her continuing grief journey. Something she feels extremely passionate about is allowing us to feel our emotions, pain, anger, depression and whatever else may come on this journey with you.

Maya also thanks her sponsors for the season - SibsForever.org - We could not have done this season without you. Thank you!

Maya also thanks her episode sponsors - Janice Jernigan - Author of "Opening Up to Grief" and Nickky Wise Neff, Founder of https://www.saitada.org/

And thank YOU, for continuing to listen and support our show!

Season 3 is brought to you by SibsForever.org, a virtual platform to commemorate and honor your sibling relationship. Create your free profile and start building beautiful commemorative web pages that can include photo and video galleries featuring you and your sibling.

Connect with Maya:

Website | https://www.thesurvivingsiblings.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/survivingsiblingspodcast/ TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@survivingsiblingspodcast Facebook Group | https://www.facebook.com/groups/1112887292632251 YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@thesurvivingsiblingspodcast Patreon | https://www.patreon.com/TheSurvivingSiblingsPodcast Twitter | https://twitter.com/survivingsibpod ✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide and Merch HERE✨ https://www.thesurvivingsiblings.com/store/

Preston grew up in the shadow of his older brother, Colin. When Preston was in college, Colin decided to go in the military, in part to escape the lifestyle he was living, but being in the military and going on two tours had taken a toll on Colin, and he ended up passing due to a drug overdose.

Preston got the dreaded call while he was at work. As soon as he made it home, he broke down. All he wanted to do was to be with his wife and kids, but his family also needed him. As part of his grief journey, he wanted to challenge himself in new ways while also honoring Colin, so he decided to paint every day for 365 days and make a documentary about it.

In this week's episode, Preston is sharing his story and Colin's story, how life was for Colin after he came back from two military tours, how it was for Preston after he received the call, why grieving for men is sometimes different for men, and how creating art out of our grief or using art therapy can help surviving siblings.

Season 3 is brought to you by SibsForever.org, a virtual platform to commemorate and honor your sibling relationship. Create your free profile and start building beautiful commemorative web pages that can include photo and video galleries featuring you and your sibling.

In this episode I'm covering:

• Intro [00:00:00]

• Preston and Colin's story [00:02:03]

• Coming back from tour [00:10:45]

• Getting The Call [00:22:59]

• The days after Colin's passing [00:34:49]

• The Art of Grieving - Honoring Colin [00:42:48]

• Grieving as a male [00:50:14]

• Creating out of grief [01:01:38]

• How art therapy can help surviving siblings [01:09:45]

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with Preston

Instagram | @prestonzeller

YouTube | Zellerhaus Art

Documentary | The Art of Grieving

Website | ZellerHaus Art

Connect with Maya

Website | The Surviving Siblings

Instagram | @survivingsiblingspodcast | @mayaroffler

TikTok | @survivingsiblingspodcast

Facebook Group | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Twitter | @survivingsibpod

✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE✨

Rachel lost her little brother Aaron in a motorcycle accident in 2002. She was really close to him, as he was the only full brother and her sibling that she shared a childhood with, so receiving the call was a heartbreaking and pivotal moment in her life.

The first few weeks after Aaron passed were a blur for her. Rachel felt a mix of emotions, because everyone expected her to be strong for her parents and to deal with all the funeral arrangements for her brother. Two months after Aaron's death, she felt desperate as she couldn't control the fact that Aaron had died. She was trying to fix her grief, which led her to attend her first group meeting at one of The Compassionate Friends chapters in Atlanta.

In this week's episode, Rachel shares about her and Aaron's story, the before and after of receiving the call that changed her life, and how she has been dealing with her grief. Rachel also talks about how she doesn't resonate with the words "acceptance" or "closure", so she prefers to acknowledge her brother's death.

Season 3 is brought to you by SibsForever.org, a virtual platform to commemorate and honor your sibling relationship. Create your free profile and start building beautiful commemorative web pages that can include photo and video galleries featuring you and your sibling.

In this episode I'm covering:

• Intro [00:00:00]

• Rachel and Aaron's story [00:01:38]

• The Call [00:03:54]

• Dealing with grief after Aaron's death [00:07:26]

• Family dynamics after Aaron passed [00:22:40]

• The Compassionate Friends [00:33:11]

• Acknowledging Aaron's passing [00:40:06]

• Being a facilitator in The Compassionate Friends [00:47:13]

• Advice for Surviving Siblings [00:54:38]

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with The Compassionate Friends

Website | The Compassionate Friends Non-Profit Organization for Grief

Find your local chapter of The Compassionate Friends

Connect with Maya

Website | The Surviving Siblings

Instagram | @survivingsiblingspodcast | @mayaroffler

TikTok | @survivingsiblingspodcast

Facebook Group | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Twitter | @survivingsibpod

✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE✨

Aletha was only 9 years old when her brother Brett passed. Even though they were 9 years apart, they were very close. Aletha and Brett spent a lot of time on the tracks since Brett started racing at a very young age. Racing was Brett's passion. In 2007, Brett was coming back home from an all-night race when he fell asleep behind the wheel crashing his car. Unfortunately, he died as a result of this accident. The days after her brother passed were very overwhelming for Aletha and she became even closer to her father and even more distant from her mother.

In this week's episode, Aletha shares what it was like growing up with her older brother Brett, how it was for her and her family the days after her brother's accident, how she and her father have navigated Brett's loss, and how she has embraced and moved through her emotions. She openly shares with us how she has navigated her grief journey.

Season 3 is brought to you by SibsForever.org, a virtual platform to commemorate and honor your sibling relationship. Create your free profile and start building beautiful commemorative web pages that can include photo and video galleries featuring you and your sibling.

In this episode I'm covering:

• Intro [00:00:00]

• Aletha and Brett's story [00:01:54]

• Finding out Brett was gone [00:09:54]

• The days after Brett's accident [00:15:40]

• Family dynamics [00:22:48]

• Aletha and her father navigate the loss [00:30:59]

• Sharing Brett's story with her fiancee [00:37:50]

• Remembering her brother [00:43:07]

• Finding support in her grief journey [00:46:08]

• Embracing and moving through her emotions [00:52:25]

• Advice for younger Aletha [00:54:54]

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with Aletha

Instagram | @aletha_laughlin

Twitter | @almariee16

Facebook | Aletha Laughlin

Connect with Maya

Website | The Surviving Siblings

Instagram | @survivingsiblingspodcast | @mayaroffler

TikTok | @survivingsiblingspodcast

Facebook Group | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Twitter | @survivingsibpod

✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE✨

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that this episode contains depictions and stories of siblings lost by suicide, homicide and/or domestic violence. We understand that some people may find these triggering, activating and/or disturbing. Angela is the oldest sibling of five children and she became a surviving sibling 20 years ago when her brother Nicky passed. Nicky's story begins after he was in a severe car accident and developed an addiction from being on strong medications for pain. He was in and out of rehab a few times until one day Angela received "the call", where a police officer informed her that her brother had passed. Years after losing Nicky, she was coming back from a camping trip and received the second call, where they told her she had suddenly lost her second sibling, Steven, to a heart attack.

Angela's most recent loss is her sister Cindy. Angela lost Cindy due to a fentanyl overdose. Like Nicky, Cindy was in and out of rehab and she was trying to put her life back together again. She was trying to make better choices for herself and her children. Unfortunately, she took fentanyl without knowing and overdosed.

In this week's episode, Angela shares how her family was growing up, how her siblings have struggled with drug use, her story with Nicky, Steven, and Cindy, how becoming a surviving sibling has affected her, and the lessons she has learned from such a long grief journey.

Season 3 is brought to you by SibsForever.org, a virtual platform to commemorate and honor your sibling relationship. Create your free profile and start building beautiful commemorative web pages that can include photo and video galleries featuring you and your sibling.

In this episode I'm covering:

• Intro [00:00:00]

• Angela and Nicky's story [00:02:45]

• Giving news to her children [00:13:23]

• Angela's and Steven story [00:16:56]

• Angela and Cindy's story [00:26:12]

• Getting "The Call" [00:40:41]

• Family dynamics and more loss [00:51:08]

• Cindy's cause of death [00:55:14]

• Bringing awareness to the fentanyl epidemic [00:57:34]

• Advice for other surviving siblings [01:03:50]

For full episode show notes and transcript, click here

Connect with Angela

Facebook | Angela Kusch

Connect with Maya

Website | The Surviving Siblings

Instagram | @survivingsiblingspodcast | @mayaroffler

TikTok | @survivingsiblingspodcast

Facebook Group | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

YouTube | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Patreon | The Surviving Siblings Podcast

Twitter | @survivingsibpod

✨Get The Surviving Siblings Guide HERE✨