Oct. 11, 2025 marks the 11th Year since Cassidy died. In this special episode of Holding the Light, I’m here to share 11 things I wish someone had told me about child loss—the truth no one prepares you for, but every grieving parent deserves to hear.

Grief doesn’t end, but it changes. The things I want to share with you might not make your grief any lighter, but my hope is that sharing helps you feel less alone, in your journey.

If you’re carrying the weight of child loss, or love someone who is, this conversation may be the light you need today.

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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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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We’re honored to sit down with Aiden Deans, who at just 12 years old, lost his older brother Austin to an accidental drug overdose. Ten years later, he wants to talk about his experience, both then and now — the grief, sometimes anger, the stigma surrounding his passing, but always the deep love that remains. He reflects on family, addiction, finding his way forward after loss, and bravely honoring both his brother, and his grief journey. This is also conversation between Colby and Aiden, who share their personal perspective and support on sibling loss with each other, and our listeners.

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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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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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/

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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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: austinslegacy2016@gmail.com

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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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: lenahann33@gmail.com

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

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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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

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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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 (shineoncass@gmail.com) 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!

Love what you heard?

• leave us...