Send us a text

Life can change in an instant. Kelly Orrico knows this firsthand. After surviving a catastrophic stroke at age 38 that nearly took her life, Kelly found herself questioning her purpose and why she had been spared when doctors had no explanation for what caused her stroke in the first place.
The story Kelly shares is nothing short of extraordinary. From the stranger who mysteriously appeared with her dog and entered her home to help, to the paramedic who broke protocol by taking her to the one hospital in Atlanta with the technology to save her, to the supernatural experience of feeling her late mother's presence during the ambulance ride – every moment seems divinely orchestrated.
But the heart of Kelly's journey comes after survival. Battling post-stroke depression and constantly questioning her purpose, Kelly describes years of seeking direction through prayer and Bible study. The answer finally came when she recognized a critical gap in support for widowed parents after the initial wave of sympathy fades. Drawing from personal experience helping others and the biblical call to care for widows and orphans, Kelly founded the Widowed Parent Relief Project (WPRP), a nonprofit providing tangible, ongoing support when everyone else has moved on.
What makes this conversation particularly powerful is Kelly's insight into grief support. She explains why the common "let me know if you need anything" approach fails grieving people who are overwhelmed by decision-making and often don't know what they need. Her organization addresses this by providing specific, concrete assistance rather than vague offers of help.
The final confirmation of Kelly's mission came in discovering that National Widows Day falls on May 3rd – the very day that had haunted her questions about the timing of her stroke. In that moment, her entire journey clicked into place, revealing how her struggles had prepared her to serve others in their darkest moments.
Has Kelly's story stirred something in you? Consider how you might better support those grieving in your community, or reflect on whether you're living with the kind of purpose that acknowledges the preciousness of each day. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.
Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.
To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.
To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].
This episodes Sponsors:
Studio Sponsor: Union Grove Lumber
Making Sales Simple
Digital Shed Builder
iFAB LLC
NewFound Solutions
Solar Blaster