After losing both her mother and her son within two years, Marie Crews found herself shattered—and searching for meaning in the wreckage. What began as journaling to survive became the foundation for a new purpose: helping others navigate the darkness of grief through writing, connection, and community.

In this episode, Marie shares how her own experience with sudden, traumatic loss reshaped her understanding of healing. She opens up about the complexity of compound grief, the doubts that haunt many bereaved parents, and how her spiritual connection with her son continues to guide her. Marie also reflects on building her journaling-based grief retreats, the importance of giving yourself permission to feel joy again, and why sharing stories helps us move forward without leaving our loved ones behind.

Resources & Ways to Connect

Marie’s Website: https://www.mariecrews.com

APOY Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aplaceofyespodcast

Heather’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathersstraughter

Jake’s Help from Heaven Website: http://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/

Jake’s Help from Heaven Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakeshelp

Jake’s Help from Heaven Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jakeshelp

Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@aplaceofyespodcast