How do you tell the story of one of life's most painful experiences? And can writing help us make sense of grief, love, and the people who shape us?

In this deeply moving episode of What's Important To You?, James speaks with author Sarah Vosburgh about the personal journey that led her to write her memoir, Who Will Name the Bees?—a heartfelt account of caring for her mother through Alzheimer's disease.

Sarah shares how late-night thoughts written on the glass top of her bedside table eventually became the foundation of a memoir that has resonated with readers around the world.

Together, they explore the emotional realities of caregiving, the isolation many carers experience, and why writing became both a creative outlet and a path to healing.

The conversation also delves into the craft of memoir writing, blending poetry with prose, finding beauty in life's smallest moments, and the importance of forgiveness, compassion, and sharing stories that help others feel less alone.

Whether you've experienced Alzheimer's personally, care for a loved one, or simply believe in the power of storytelling, this episode is a touching reminder that even in life's hardest seasons, connection and hope can still be found.

Sarah Vosburgh is an author, poet and memoirist whose writing explores family, caregiving, grief, resilience and the extraordinary meaning found in ordinary moments.

Her debut memoir, Who Will Name the Bees?, tells the deeply personal story of her mother's journey through Alzheimer's disease while reflecting on love, forgiveness and the emotional complexities of becoming a caregiver.

Through a unique blend of prose and poetry, Sarah creates space for readers to process their own experiences and discover comfort through shared stories.

• Writing can become a powerful tool for processing grief and difficult emotions.
• Caregiving is often an isolating experience, but no one should feel alone.
• Sometimes the smallest moments become the ones we treasure most.
• Memoirs don't have to begin as books, they can start as small stories.
• Poetry can express emotions that prose sometimes cannot.
• There is no perfect way to care for someone you love, only the best you can do at the time.
• Sharing vulnerable stories helps others feel seen and validated.
• Forgiveness is an important part of healing, both for ourselves and for those we love.
• Creativity often grows from life's most challenging experiences.
• It's never too late to discover your voice as a writer.

"Writing on the glass top helped me sleep."

"Who will help me name the bees?"

"True maturity is forgiving your parents."

"Finding the much in the little."

👉 Website

👉 Who Will Name The Bees?