Kim Murray Reflects on Widowed Parenting and Shares Resources for Widowed People

I had such a great discussion with Kim Murray for this episode. Kim is a widowed parent, and we have so much in common. Her husband died of glioblastoma, as did mine. Her kids were 8 and 10 when he was diagnosed; mine were those ages, too. Most importantly, though, Kim gets real with us. She talks about things people aren’t willing to talk about – including her son’s struggles beginning a few years after his dad died, and the stories she was telling herself about her parenting because of his struggles. She also tells us about all the terrific resources she’s put together over at her website, Widow 411, which I encourage you to check out. Some topics Kim and I discuss include: The shock of finding out that her husband had terminal brain cancer; Talking with her kids about their dad’s diagnosis, and deciding when to tell them his cancer was terminal; Why she prefers the term ‘solo parent’ rather than ‘single parent;’ Taking her kids to a family grief support program; Her older son beginning to struggle in 8th grade, about 3 years after his dad died, including self-medicating in an attempt to handle his grief; Trying to find help for her son, and the doubt and shame she experienced because of his struggles; Why she started Widow 411; and The topics she tackles on Widow 411, ranging from grief, to money, to home maintenance and more. I hope you enjoy my discussion with Kim Murray. -=-=-=-=- Thank you sponsors & partners: Grief Coach - Grief support text messaging service. Tips and support delivered all year long, personalized based on your loss. Listeners get $10 off: https://grief.coach/jennylisk/ BetterHelp - Talk with a licensed, professional therapist online. Get 10% off your first month: betterhelp.com/widowedparent Support the show - Buy Me a Coffee -=-=-=-=-

Om Podcasten

Experiencing the profound loss of a spouse while navigating the intricate realm of "only-parenting" is a challenge unlike any other. Remember, though, you’re not journeying alone. Jenny Lisk, who stepped into solo parenting following the devastating loss of her husband to brain cancer, established the Widowed Parent Institute to shine a light, extend a hand, and share vital resources. The Widowed Parent Podcast embodies that commitment, providing a mix of hope, practical wisdom, and shared experiences. On The Widowed Parent Podcast, listeners will find: - Expert perspectives from the vanguard of grief and loss research, tailored distinctly for widowed parents. - Heartfelt stories from those who walked through childhood after the death of a parent, granting unique perspective and hope. - Candid conversations with widowed parents, unveiling both the strengths they've discovered and the hurdles they've faced. Whether you're trying to connect with a young child's emotions, navigate the maze of teenage years, or simply seeking a community that truly understands, this podcast speaks directly to widowed parents of children at every stage, from infancy through college. Plug in during a peaceful walk, your daily commute, or in quiet reflection, and discover inspiration, empowerment, and a community that hears and understands. Proudly presented by the Widowed Parent Institute, a beacon of practical guidance, invaluable resources, and steadfast support for mothers and fathers raising grieving children and teens.