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When Rachel Wall lost her husband Mike to suicide, her world changed in an instant. Left to raise three toddlers, she faced the unimaginable weight of grief while navigating the stigma of suicide loss and the hidden toll of chronic pain.

In this episode of She Diaries, Rachel shares her love story with Mike, their family’s journey through a miscarriage, adoption, and raising young children, and the heartbreaking reality of his struggles with traumatic brain injury and daily migraines. She reflects on the suddenness of loss, the challenges of single parenting, and how she struggles to grieve while continuing to move forward.

Rachel’s openness sheds light on widowhood, parenting after loss, and the importance of breaking silence around mental health and suicide.

Content Warning

This podcast includes real stories of suicide loss. Some episodes may reference the method of suicide and include emotionally intense or uncomfortable descriptions. We understand how sensitive this content is, and we carefully edit each episode to honor and respect both our guests and listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free, 24/7 support. Please take care while listening—pause if you need to. You are not alone.

Takeaways

• Chronic pain can quietly erode hope.
• Life can change in an instant with suicide loss.
• Parenting through grief requires honesty with children.
• Talking about suicide reduces stigma, not increases it.
• Widowhood means learning to start over while honoring love.

About She Diaries

In She Diaries, women who have lost their husbands to suicide bravely share their stories of strength while navigating the unimaginable journey of widowhood. Through candid interviews, the podcast explores their lives before the tragedy, moments that changed everything, the web of grief, and the hard-earned lessons of overcoming deep loss. These powerful stories shed light on the strength and courage it takes to move forward.

Produced by Bright Sky House — bringing hidden stories to light.

Mental Health Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7, confidential support for mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress.
• Find a Therapist: Search for licensed therapists near you through directories like Psychology Today, TherapyDen, or Mental Health Match.
• Join a Support Group: Connect with others through peer-led or professionally facilitated support groups via NAMI or GriefShare.

Stay Connected with She Diaries

Instagram: @BrightSkyHouse
Facebook: Bright Sky House
YouTube: Bright Sky House Official
LinkedIn: Bright Sky House

If you have questions or would like to follow-up with any of our guests, reach out to Hello@BrightSkyHouse.com.

She Diaries is available wherever you listen to podcasts.