In this deeply moving episode of Hydrated Mind & Soul, Dr. Amanda Hackford speaks with Ellie Riga, a mother who turned unimaginable grief into purpose after losing her son Kenny to suicide. Together, they open an honest, faith-centered discussion about trauma, healing, isolation, support systems, mental health, and the powerful impact of community.

Ellie shares how her life changed after her son’s death, how her family reacted, what she learned about grief that never truly goes away, and why storytelling and connection are vital for healing. She also explains why suicide loss is different from other types of grief — the unanswered questions, guilt, stigma, and the painful “why” that survivors struggle with Most importantly, Ellie discovered purpose: she now leads a suicide grief support group, providing a safe space for survivors to be heard, understood, and surrounded by others who truly “get it.”



📞 If you or someone you love needs help:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text anytime
- 211 Mental Health Hotline — Free, confidential, and untraceable
- Ellie’s Suicide Grief Group — A safe space for survivors to share and heal

❤️ A message of hope:
You are not alone.
You are not a burden.
You matter.

If you’re hurting, please reach out — there is help, there is hope, and there are people who care about you more than you realize.