Widowed AF: Real stories of love, grief and beyond - With Rosie Moss

In this episode of Widowed AF, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Sophie Ransom from Suffolk. At 25 years old, Sophie's fiancé, Paul was killed in a motorcycle accident when she was 17 weeks pregnant with their daughter. Now 27, Sophie shares her experience of widowhood at a young age and the reality of navigating pregnancy, birth, and raising a child on her own.

Sophie recounts meeting Paul at 19, marrying at 24, and becoming pregnant shortly after their wedding. She describes their last evening together sharing a Colin the Caterpillar cake before Paul's fatal collision with a lorry while riding to work the next morning. The conversation covers Sophie's experience of learning about his death, attending hospital appointments without him, and giving birth via emergency C-section without Paul by her side.

The episode addresses Sophie's thoughts of not wanting to continue living without Paul and how her daughter Poppy gave her purpose. Sophie discusses practical aspects of her situation, including her approach to telling a child about a parent they never met, reading "I Have an Angel" nightly, and moving away from their shared home. She also shares her process of working through anger toward Paul, connecting with others in similar situations through WAY (Widowed and Young), and finding happiness again 18 months after his loss.

 Topics: Young widowhood, pregnancy after loss, parenting after loss, motorcycle accident, sudden death, raising children who never met their parent

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• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

In this episode of the Widowed AF podcast, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Mark Heazle, a widower who shares his experiences following the death of his wife, Sharon, from a rare form of cancer. Mark discusses the practical aspects of navigating life as a single parent while managing grief. He provides insights into the challenges of parenting after loss, including the dynamics of raising children in a blended family setting.

Mark details the process of advocating for his wife’s health during her illness, highlighting the importance of understanding medical conditions and the healthcare system. He addresses the impact of cancer on family life and the necessity of mental health support for both himself and his children.

The conversation also covers the significance of support networks, including family and friends, in coping with loss. Mark shares how these relationships have played a role in his life and the lives of his children. He discusses the balance between remembering a loved one and moving forward with life, including how to acknowledge significant dates such as anniversaries and birthdays.

Listeners will gain practical insights into the realities of widowhood, parenting, and the formation of blended families. This episode serves as a resource for those who are widowed, as well as for individuals who support someone experiencing loss.

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

In this episode of "Widowed AF," host Rosie Gill-Moss engages in a conversation with Rachel Hart, who shares her personal experience of losing her husband to suicide while she was pregnant. Rachel discusses the profound impact of this loss on her life and the complexities of navigating grief during such a pivotal time.

The episode addresses the stigma surrounding suicide, highlighting how it affects the grieving process and the perceptions of those left behind. Rachel emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in understanding the signs that may precede such tragedies.

Listeners will hear about the challenges of parenting after the death of a partner, including how to communicate the situation to children in an age-appropriate manner. Rachel reflects on her own experiences and the support she received from family and friends, illustrating the critical role of support networks in coping with grief.

The conversation also touches on the process of finding love again after loss. Rachel shares her thoughts on the complexities of entering a new relationship while still navigating the emotions tied to her late husband.

Throughout the episode, Rachel provides insights into the realities of widowhood, offering a candid perspective on the ongoing process of healing and the adjustments required in daily life. This episode serves as a resource for those in the widow and widower community, providing factual information and relatable experiences.

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

In this episode, Rosie welcomes Andrew Medlycot to the studio for an open and insightful conversation about how life can change in an instant. Andrew shares his personal journey, from facing a life-altering cancer diagnosis to navigating the ripple effects it has had on every aspect of his world.

Through this conversation, Andrew reflects on the unexpected ways that cancer reshaped his priorities, relationships, and outlook. He discusses the challenges of accessing healthcare when time is of the essence, the importance of a supportive family, and the emotional and practical adjustments required to adapt to a new reality.

Andrew also opens up about living with undiagnosed ADHD, how it influenced his life before he even knew about it, and the transformative impact of finally receiving a diagnosis and treatment. He looks back on his past with a new perspective, identifying moments and patterns that suddenly make more sense.

Key topics discussed in this episode include:

•Adjusting to sudden, life-altering circumstances.

•The struggles of accessing healthcare when waiting isn’t an option.

•The value of family support during difficult times.

•Living with undiagnosed ADHD and the transformation that comes with diagnosis.

•Reflecting on the past and how new insights change our understanding of it.

Whether you’re navigating a major change yourself, supporting someone close to you, or simply curious about how others adapt when life throws the unexpected, this episode offers practical reflections, candid insights, and a grounded perspective.

Tune in to hear Andrew’s story and discover a conversation that’s as thought-provoking as it is relatable.

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

In this episode of Widowed AF, Rosie and Jonathan Gill-Moss welcome you back for more insight from the frontline of widowhood.

The couple discuss the challenges of managing family life, high expectations and grief during the festive  season.

They share their recent Christmas trip to Jamaica, which included unexpected complications, and a trip to hospital.

Hear how their grief has changed over time,  in ways they didn’t expect, and how important  the telling and sharing of stories is for restoring hope.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Handling holidays as a widowed parent
• Balancing traditions and creating new ones in blended families
• Practical insights into managing unexpected crises while grieving
• How grief evolves over years and its impact on daily life
• The value of open conversations and support networks

Resources Mentioned:

•WAY – Widowed and Young

•The Ollie Foundation

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

Feeling festive? In this episode, Jonathan and I are sitting down for a Christmas catch-up to wrap up two incredible years of Widowed AF. We’re taking a moment to reflect on what the podcast has meant to us, the changes we made this year, and—most importantly—the impact your messages and feedback have had. Honestly, we couldn’t do this without you.

We’re chatting about life as a blended family (it’s messy, but we wouldn’t have it any other way), the emotional challenges of recording episodes, and how we navigate grief during the holidays. It’s not always easy, is it? But you’re not alone in it—we’re right here with you.

We’ve also got some exciting plans brewing for next year, and we’d love to hear from you. What do you want to hear more of? What’s helped you most? Drop us a message and let us know. In the meantime, grab a mince pie, pop on your cosiest socks, and join us for this warm (and slightly rambling) end-of-year chat.

Chapters
[00:00] Festive Welcome
[07:15] Blended Family Life
[12:45] Grief During the Holidays
[22:30] Looking Ahead to 2025
[28:15] Closing Thoughts and Festive Farewell

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

Episode Overview
Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of murder, trauma, and grief that may be triggering for some listeners.

In this episode of Widowed AF, Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Katrina Smith about the traumatic night her husband was murdered in their home. Katrina shares her harrowing experience of losing her husband, Josh, during a home invasion, exploring profound grief, loss, and trauma.

The discussion not only highlights the emotional turmoil that accompanies such a devastating event but also addresses the failures of law enforcement in responding to domestic violence situations. Through her story, Katrina emphasises the critical importance of victim advocacy, providing listeners with valuable insights into the complexities of navigating life after such a tragedy.

Episode Timeline

• [00:00] Introduction
• [00:16] Content warning and episode context
• [01:00] Katrina's background and relationship with Josh
• [05:00] The night of the murder
• [10:00] Police response and aftermath
• [20:00] Legal proceedings and frustrations
• [30:00] Healing and therapy
• [40:00] Advocacy work and support for victims
• [50:00] Reflections on love and loss

Key Topics

• The impact of sudden loss
• The role of law enforcement in domestic violence cases
• Navigating grief and trauma recovery
• The importance of victim advocacy
• Personal growth and finding love after loss

About Katrina

Katrina Smith is an advocate for victims' rights and a survivor of violent crime. She shares her story to raise awareness and support for others who have experienced similar tragedies.

Contact Information

• Widowed AF: @widowedafpodcast
• Katrina Smith: please contact the show
• Website: Widowed AF Podcast

Support Organisations

• Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice: Provides resources and advocacy for crime victims.(https://cssj.org/)

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

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In this special episode, Rosie Gill-Moss shares her reaction to the historic news that the UK Parliament has voted in favour of legalising assisted dying. Recorded just hours after hearing the announcement, Rosie reflects on the significance of this decision, drawing from personal stories shared on Widowed AF and the emotional conversations that shaped the podcast’s early episodes.

As the host of Widowed AF, Rosie has spoken with over 100 individuals about some of the darkest times of their lives, often compounded by the suffering they have witnessed. She questions, “Why are we denied dignity and autonomy at the end of our lives, when we value them above almost all else?”

While end-of-life care is often excellent, it does not alleviate all suffering. Rosie explores the deeply personal choice of assisted dying, the fear and dignity involved, and the relief this new law may provide to those facing terminal diagnoses. “None of us can predict how we might feel when facing a terminal diagnosis,” Rosie states. “I personally want this option to be available. I can’t say if I would use it, but I know I want the choice.”

Tune in for a deeply personal and thought-provoking commentary on this historic moment of compassion, choice, and dignity.

Key Topics:

The emotional impact of the vote

Reflections on stories shared in Widowed AF episodes “Dignity” and “Thought-Provoking AF”

Why dignity and autonomy matter at the end of life

Related Episodes:

Episode 11: Dignity - Anonymous Guest

Episode 12: Thought-Provoking AF

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

Episode Overview

In this episode of the "What About The Children" series, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Jess Yeldon, who shares her experience of losing her father to cancer at the age of 11.

Jess discusses the impact of her father's death on her life, her relationships, and the importance of open conversations about grief and mental health.

Key Discussion Points

• Childhood Memories: Jess reflects on her close relationship with her father and the memories of their time together before his illness.
• The Day of Loss: She recounts the day she learned of her father's death, including the confusion and emotions she experienced.
• Support Systems: The episode highlights the support Jess received from her family and friends, as well as the lack of resources available at the time.
• Coping Mechanisms: Jess shares how she navigated her grief, including her experiences with therapy and the challenges of processing her emotions.
• Open Dialogue: The importance of discussing mental health and grief openly with children is emphasised, as Jess talks about how her mother encouraged conversations about their loss.

Related Episodes in the Series

• Stephanie Dixon: Shares her story of losing her father to suicide and the impact it had on her childhood and family dynamics.
• Roisin Aldridge: Discusses her experience of losing her father just before her 10th birthday and the long-term effects of grief.
• Ottis Middleton: Offers insights into coping with the loss of a parent and the importance of support systems.

Jess's story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health and grief openly. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to encourage others to have conversations about loss and seek support when needed.

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

Episode Overview
In this episode of the "What About The Children" series, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Roisin Aldridge, who shares her experience of losing her father just two days before her 10th birthday. Roisin discusses the impact of her father's death on her life, her relationship with her family, and the importance of open conversations about grief.

Key Discussion Points

• Childhood Memories: Roisin reflects on her close relationship with her father and the normalcy of their life before his sudden death.
• The Day of Loss: She recounts the day her father died, including the confusion and emotions she felt when her mother delivered the news.
• Support Systems: The episode highlights the support Roisin received from her family, friends, and school, including counseling and peer support.
• Coping Mechanisms: Roisin shares how she and her family have created traditions to honour her father's memory, such as celebrating his favorite meals on anniversaries.
• Open Dialogue: The importance of discussing grief openly within families is emphasised, as Roisin talks about how her mother encouraged conversations about their loss.

Related Episodes in the Series

• Jess Yeldon: Discusses her experience of losing her father at a young age and the long-term effects of grief.
• Stephanie Dixon: Shares her story of losing her father to suicide and the impact it had on her childhood and family dynamics.
• Ottis Middleton: Offers insights into coping with the loss of a parent and the importance of support systems.

Roisin's story serves as a reminder of the importance of open communication about grief and the need for support systems for children who experience loss. Her experiences highlight that while the pain of losing a parent is profound, it is possible to navigate life and find joy again.

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)