Riley Elliott Reflects on Losing Her Dad at Age 7

"The one thing I would have to say about giving a parent advice on what to tell their child is that they don't have to live with this guilt for their entire life. I would advise parents to still encourage their kids to be happy, and not make their parent's death their identity. But I would also say that they need to acknowledge it because it is a part of their life. And they don't have to be sad forever if they don't want to be. Giving them that freedom, and that encouragement, is something that I was kind of told, and I think that hearing those words really did help me."  - Riley Elliott   I had such a great discussion with Riley Elliott for this week’s show. Riley lost her dad to brain cancer when she was just 7 years old. As a widowed parent, I always think it’s helpful to hear the perspectives of people who are now adults and who lost a parent when they were a child or teenager. It’s not like it’s going to tell me exactly what my kids will go through, but it gives me a lot to think about and be on the lookout for, and helps me figure out how to support them better. Riley and I discussed: Wanting to feel “normal” growing up and not wanting to be treated differently because her dad died; Finding it difficult to know what to say to new people about her family’s situation; Gaining perspective, including wanting to get more out of life from an early age; How her family has turned grief into action by getting involved in the brain cancer world; and so much more. I hope you enjoy my discussion with Riley Elliott.

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.