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In this episode of The Day After, hosts Ashley and CJ welcome Jody to share her personal journey through grief, the challenges of solo parenting, and the healing process following the tragic loss of her husband. This episode dives into the raw and emotional experiences Jody faced after her husband was killed in a workplace violence incident, contrasting with CJ's own journey after losing his wife to breast cancer.

Jody and CJ discuss the heartbreaking decisions involved in end-of-life care and the emotional turmoil that follows. They highlight the practical difficulties encountered immediately after such a loss, from invasive questions regarding organ donation to needing strong support from family and friends. Jody opens up about the surreal and overwhelming transition to solo parenting and striving to find a balance between grieving and caring for her children. The distinction between solo and single parenting is explored, emphasizing the unique challenges and emotional toll faced by those who have lost a spouse.

The episode offers insight into the importance of setting boundaries, asking for help, and prioritizing self-care while dealing with profound loss. Both Jody and CJ reflect on their experiences with guilt and the struggle to reconcile moments of happiness amidst their grief, sharing how personal retreats and unconventional spaces helped them express and release their emotions.

Listeners will hear about the significance of maintaining connections with lost loved ones through rituals, memories, and shared stories. Jody shares heartwarming encounters and CJ speaks to the solace found in the enduring love of his late wife.

The profound impact of selling Jody's business, the psychological and physical toll of grief, and the ultimate importance of focusing on health and meaningful connections are themes richly woven throughout the conversation. This episode also delves into experiences with mediums, the support from their community, and the realization that listening is more vital than trying to “fix” grief.

Join us in this heartfelt episode as Jody's story conveys resilience, the importance of support systems, and the journey towards healing.

*Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of grief, loss, and trauma which may be triggering for some listeners.*

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You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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Join hosts CJ and Ashley in this heartfelt episode of The Day After as they sit down with special guest, Paula. Paula opens up about her deeply personal journey through grief after the loss of her beloved husband, sharing the touching stories featured in her popular blog segment, "Martin Mondays," which evolved into a cherished book released on what would have been his 61st birthday.

Candidly, Paula discusses the challenge of accurately sharing her late husband's legacy and the therapeutic nature of writing for her and future generations. She provides insights into how her family navigated their grief, following the mantra of "grace and space," creating private time to process their emotions before accepting visitors. Paula's nurturing response to her children's grief reveals the profound impact her husband's injury and passing had on their family dynamic.

Throughout the episode, Paula unveils the gift of gratitude and growth she discovered through her grief, emphasizing the importance of allowing sorrow to transform and shape her relationships and legacy. She reflects on the tragic and ongoing losses, including her youngest brother before his graduation and the subsequent deaths of her nephew, sister, and husband, revealing how each loss compounded her grief yet allowed her to find purpose and intentionality in her life.

Paula’s resilience is showcased as she recounts the criticism she faced for not appearing as a "broken down widow" and how her faith helped her persevere, even as she participated in church activities shortly after her husband's passing. Open-hearted, Paula shares advice for others experiencing grief, highlighting the importance of honoring each person's unique process and language of grief.

The discussion shifts to Paula’s personal project management approach, the significance of her "five pillars of life," and how setting pillar goals kept her family integrated and focused through their grief journey. Paula wraps up with gratitude for the support systems outside her immediate family, emphasizing the difference between being a single parent and a solo parent, and the fortitude she gained from her mother's example of strength and resilience.

Tune in for an episode filled with love, loss, transformation, and the continuous journey of healing and honoring a loved one's legacy.

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For more, go to thedayafter.com, or join the conversation online and follow us @thedayafteronline.

You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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Today's episode concludes our pet grief series! Did you enjoy the series? We'd love to hear from you. Let us know by sending us a message (link above)!

Ashley is away this week so CJ is joined by special co-host Elizabeth from episode 8. In this episode of The Day After, CJ & Elizabeth delve deep with Nicole as she shares the complex and heartbreaking experience of losing her cherished companion, Roger.

Through raw and vulnerable storytelling, Nicole shares the heart-wrenching moments leading up to Roger's passing due to heart disease, highlighting her feelings of guilt, shame, and overwhelming sadness. The episode captures Nicole's deep bond with Roger, portraying the unconditional love and unique connection they shared, reminiscent of the love she received from her grandmother.

As Nicole bravely explores her grief and coping mechanisms, listeners are invited to witness her transformative healing process. From initially feeling unprepared for new pets to eventually welcoming Arthur and Archibald into her life, Nicole's journey serves as a testament to the power of self-compassion and the profound impact of therapy, particularly EMDR and somatic therapy, in processing emotions and trauma.

The episode also touches upon themes of spirituality and connection, as Nicole recounts moments that make her believe in Roger's continued presence in her life. With discussions on the significance of mourning and embracing the grieving process, Nicole's story resonates with anyone who has experienced the profound loss of a beloved pet.

Through shared memories, reflections, and insights on self-love and healing, the episode offers a touching exploration of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of profound grief.

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For more, go to thedayafter.com, or join the conversation online and follow us @thedayafteronline.

You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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The Day After's special series focused on pet grief continues with this heartfelt episode. Today, we welcome Kristina to share her touching journey of love, loss, and new beginnings with her canine companions. Losing Wilson, a cherished 17-year-old shih tzu mix, was a painful experience for Kristina, leading her down a path of deep reflection and mourning. She discusses the tough decisions around doggy hospice care and the emotional process of coping with Wilson's passing, which includes cherished memories and mementos that continue to provide comfort.

Kristina also introduces us to Goose, the rescue dog who stepped into her life when she least expected it. Despite initial hesitation and the chilling ambiance of the quarantine facility where they first met, Goose quickly became more than just a pet, filling the void left by Wilson and even having a social media presence dedicated to him.

Throughout the episode, Kristina candidly shares humorous anecdotes, the challenges of grieving, and the unexpected joy that Goose brings into her life, illustrating the complex emotions of losing and finding love again in the world of pet companionship.

This episode is not just a story about pets but a deeper exploration of human emotions, resilience, and the profound impact that animals can have on our lives. Join us as we delve into the highs and lows of Kristina's emotional journey with her beloved dogs.

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You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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The Day After's series on pet grief continues in honor of National Pet Month! In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the emotional journey of Dana, who shares her experiences of dealing with the grief of losing her beloved dog, Smitty, to heart disease. Throughout the conversation, hosts CJ Infantino and Ashley Infantino explore the profound impact of pet loss and the often underappreciated depth of mourning that accompanies it.

Dana opens up about the challenges she faced during the health decline of her dog, including difficult decisions about euthanasia and the lack of support from some veterinary professionals. She contrasts her lonely and painful grieving process with the support systems that did come through, including a special mention of the in-home euthanasia service, Lap of Love, which provided compassion during her time of need.

The episode also covers Dana’s struggles with personal organization and productivity due to depression and chronic fatigue since her loss. She shares how maintaining a connection to nature and part-time care for a friend’s dog has provided some comfort.
Listeners will find a discussion on the implications of pet loss on personal identity and mental health, with Dana expressing how vital her relationship with Smitty was to her happiness and stability. CJ relates to her experiences by reflecting on his own grief after losing his wife, fostering a conversation about the wide-ranging impacts of grief.

Moreover, Ashley brings insight into the emotional responsibilities of pet ownership, touching on her own experiences and the lessons of care and compassion they entail.

This episode is a touching exploration of love, loss, and learning to navigate life after the passing of a beloved pet, offering listeners understanding and validation of their grief experiences. It’s a must-listen for everyone who has ever loved and lost a pet.

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You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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In this poignant installment of our ongoing series focused on pet grief, hosts CJ and Ashley engage in a deep and meaningful conversation with their guest, Elizabeth, about the intricacies of mourning the loss of a beloved pet. Elizabeth brings to light her personal experiences surrounding the death of her dog, Isabel "Iz", who was not just a pet but a significant member of her family, providing immense companionship and unconditional love.

Throughout the episode, Elizabeth shares powerful insights on the need for physical closeness and the impact of touch, especially valued in today’s digitally-dominated world. She discusses how societal norms and the quick pace of modern life can stifle the expression of genuine emotions during times of grief. Listeners will be moved by her heartfelt stories of Iz, emphasizing the deep connection they shared and the joyous moments that continue to resonate with her.

Complementing the discussion, CJ shares his own stories of loss, enriching the dialogue about the necessity of being acknowledged in one's pain and the therapeutic approaches that have aided him. The conversation expands to cover the broader issues of grieving openly and accommodating individual needs during such vulnerable times.

This episode not only seeks to provide a space for those grieving the loss of their pets but also advocates for a wider cultural acceptance of the profound impact pet loss can have. It’s an essential listen for anyone navigating their own grief or supporting others through similar journeys, encapsulating themes of love, loss, and healing. Tune in for this touching and insightful episode in our series on pet grief.

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You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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In this deeply moving episode of The Day After, we are joined by guest Ashley W. who shares her heartfelt journey of grief following the loss of her beloved dog, Simba. This episode marks the beginning of a month-long series dedicated to exploring pet grief, a topic often overlooked and minimized in society.

Throughout the episode, Ashley discusses the complex emotions surrounding euthanasia, the loneliness of grieving a pet, and the societal challenges that come with acknowledging this type of loss. She details the anticipatory grief she faced as Simba aged and her challenging decision to eventually euthanize him, a decision filled with emotional weight and second-guessing. Ashley talks openly about the guilt of feeling relieved when no longer burdened by caregiving responsibilities, yet struggling with the isolation that followed Simba's passing.

Hosts Ashley and CJ contribute their personal experiences with pet loss, enhancing the conversation with their insights on dealing with grief, the impact of losing a pet on family dynamics, and the importance of recognizing joy amidst sorrow. They discuss societal attitudes toward grief, the insensitivity often shown towards those mourning pets, and the need for more supportive frameworks to help individuals cope with loss.

The conversation also touches on the valuable support systems that have aided Ashley W., such as grief groups and journaling, and how these have helped her navigate her emotions during this tough time.

By the end of the episode, listeners will find a compassionate exploration of pet loss, the universal nature of grief, and the small yet significant ways in which we can support each other through such profound moments of sorrow. This episode not only provides a space for empathy and understanding but also challenges us to rethink how we respond to the grief of others, particularly when it involves a beloved animal, setting the stage for the rest of the series that will delve deeper into the nuances of pet grief.

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You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music

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Welcome back to The Day After, where powerful storytelling meets human connection. Today's episode features our hosts CJ and Ashley in an intimate conversation with our guest, Cynthia, who shares her transformative experience with the pathos of life's unpredictability

In this deeply moving episode, Cynthia reveals how parenthood shifted her approach to risk assessment, making her more conservative in decision-making for the sake of her children. She expresses the complicated emotions of feeling out of place in widow groups due to her age and experience, providing a different outlook on love, loss, and the passage of time.

As we peel back the layers of grief and parenting, Cynthia opens up about the challenge of nurturing her children through their father's absence, examining their advanced emotional responses and her own journey through mourning. The conversation meanders through the landscape of laughter and grief – the catharsis of humor intertwined with the permanence of loss.

We delve into the solemn topic of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), as Cynthia shares her candid perspective on what it means to say goodbye under such circumstances, contrasting real-life goodbyes with those depicted in fiction. Her accounts provide a raw look into the aspect of modern medicine that allows for dignity in death but doesn't diminish the gravity of loss.

CJ, Ashley, and Cynthia candidly discuss the evolution of self-care, the importance of boundary-setting, and the often overlooked strength found in seeking and accepting support.

Cynthia co-authored The Many Faces of MAID: What to Expect When Someone You Know Chooses Medical Assistance in Dying: Find it on Amazon in the US or Canada. Learn more about Maid Family Support Society on social: LinkedIn / Facebook / Instagram (@maidfamilysupport).

Support the Show.

For more, go to thedayafter.com, or join the conversation online and follow us @thedayafteronline.

You can find our hosts at:
@cjinfantino
@ashleyinfantino

Music by Servidio Music