Grieving The Death Of A Child - Susie And Nick Shaw’s Story

Grief Out Loud

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2M ago 1:04:58

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When Susie and Nick Shaw’s nine-year-old son William died in a skiing accident, their world shifted permanently. In the six years since that day, they've found ways to carry their grief and stay connected to William, while continuing to honor the boy who inspired so much good in their lives and in their community.

In this deeply moving conversation, Susie and Nick reflect on William’s life—his empathy, his humor, and the motto he created for himself in the year before he died: “Be Yourself.” A simple but powerful phrase that inspired their nonprofit, William’s Be Yourself Challenge.

Together, we discuss:

The day William died and what they’ve come to understand about control, safety, and loss

Navigating grief as individuals and as a couple
Supporting their son Kai in grieving for his brother
Raising Bodhi, their child who was born after William’s death
Creating family rituals, including monthly taco nights and birthday celebrations
Returning to Big Sky, Montana to visit the spot where William died and reclaim their love of skiing
Their new project, The Greenhouse, a house for families who are grieving to take a break from daily life

Whether you’re a parent or a caregiver who's grieving, a supporter of one, or someone walking alongside a family coping with heartbreaking grief, this conversation highlights the power of honesty, connection, and intentional grief work.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of child death, trauma, and detailed descriptions of the day William died.