How does one survive losing a child

I’m not here because life went according to plan.

I’m here because it didn’t.

I’m a father. I’m a loss dad. I’m an author and a podcast host learning how to live, grieve, and grow—all at the same time.

There are days I’m strong.

There are days I’m not.

But every day, I show up.

After losing my son, everything changed—how I see the world, how I connect with people, and what actually matters. This space isn’t about pretending to have it all figured out. It’s about having real conversations that most people avoid.

I created my podcast as a place for honesty—about grief, healing, fatherhood, and finding purpose after loss. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying something heavy that no one else understands… you’re not alone.

This is me, showing up as I am.

And if that resonates with you, I’m glad you’re here.

🎙️ Listen to the podcast:

https://nickmendelke.podbean.com/

#griefclub #grieffather #childlossgrief #

3/26 Edited to

... Read moreLosing a child is a profoundly life-altering experience that changes your world forever. From my own journey and from listening to many others, I’ve learned that healing doesn’t follow a linear path—it comes in waves and varies from day to day. What helped me the most was allowing myself to feel every emotion without judgment, whether it was sadness, anger, confusion, or moments of peace. One important step in surviving this kind of loss is finding a community or safe space where your grief is understood—not just by words but through shared experience. Joining support groups, like #griefclub or connecting with fellow grieve fathers under #grieffather, can provide comfort and lessen the isolating feeling of carrying a heavy burden alone. Another key aspect is creating meaningful rituals that honor your child’s memory, whether through writing, talking about them openly, or preserving their legacy in creative ways. This practice not only keeps their presence alive but also helps you acknowledge your continuing love and connection. Podcasting has been an incredibly valuable tool for expressing raw emotions and hearing others’ stories, which brings hope and reduces stigma around talking about grief openly. Listening to discussions on healing and fatherhood after loss offers strength and practical advice on navigating complex feelings and rebuilding a purposeful life. Finally, it’s critical to be gentle with yourself. There is no “right” way to grieve or timeline to follow. Some days will be stronger, others harder, but showing up for yourself consistently—just as you are—is a powerful act of resilience. Remember, grief transforms how you see the world and what truly matters, and through this transformation, growth and healing are possible even in the darkest times.

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