I am a fellow griever. I have witnessed several family deaths. The most difficult for me have been the death of my mom in March of 2021 and then my mother in law in Febuary of 2023. Lessons learned from these experiences have propelled me into supporting other grievers in their journey. The greatest lessons I have learned revolve around self-care, authenticity, vulnerability, community and GRACE.

My mom loved to garden. Since her death I have spent much time in her old garden beds, revitalizing them, learning, creating, planting, fertilizing and watering. I find joy there. I also find lots of work, pulling those pesky weeks, making mistakes and feeling the effects of the uncontrollable weather., Gardening requires work, resilience, care and grace. The garden is where I feel my mom’s presence still with me and where I find reconnection with God. There are many metaphors of gardening and grief that I found powerful. My Mom was also named GG. Hence the name GG’s Garden was created, giving a nod to her presence, to grief and grace.

I am a registered nurse with nearly 40 years’ experience in cancer and hospice care. Witnessing grief, supporting others in their experiences has become my heart’s passion. I am certified in Advanced Illness Coordinated Care, Motivational Interviewing and a Certified Grief Educator through David Kessler, (world known grief expert). I am also a wife, mom, grandma and friend.