Unraveled: When Loss Changes Everything by Kyle and Betty Mertens is a poignant memoir about their journey through grief after the sudden loss of their one-year-old daughter, Ella, to a heart defect. The book explores their emotional struggles, the impact on their marriage, and their path toward healing. By sharing their story, the Mertens aim to offer comfort and hope to others facing similar loss, emphasizing the importance of love, empathy, and resilience in the face of tragedy.
A note from Andrew’s family : This book has been the most helpful read for Andrew’s mom thus far. It shares hope and comfort amidst deep tragedy and shows that there is a path forward, but never on.
Grieving Dads: To the Brink and Back is a powerful and raw exploration of grief from the perspective of fathers who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child. Written by Kelly Farley, with contributions from David Dicola, the book gives voice to a demographic often overlooked in discussions of grief—men who are grieving as fathers. Through heartfelt stories, practical advice, and deeply personal insights, the book offers validation, support, and hope to grieving dads navigating their loss. This book was read by both Andrew’s Dad and Poppy who found it incredibly helpful.
A note from Andrew’s Family : “Grieving Dads: To the Brink and Back is quite possibly the most helpful book I could possibly imagine. Better than anything anyone has said to me, wrote me, or anything else I have read, ever.” -Andrew’s Poppy
The Grieving Garden is a poignant and heartfelt book that provides solace and support to parents navigating the devastating loss of a child. Written by Suzanne Redfern and Susan Gilbert, who both experienced this profound loss, the book brings together the voices of 22 bereaved parents, offering their stories of pain, resilience, and healing.
A note from Andrew’s family : Hearing the stories of other bereaved parents shared hope and community with us.