13 Years Later: A Reflection of Love, Loss, and New Beginnings

Today I’m sharing a personal reflection — one that honors the day that changed everything, yet continues to remind me of the strength that follows loss. As we turn the calendar to November 1st, I find myself holding space for both remembrance and renewal.

Thirteen years ago yesterday, our world changed forever. November 1st always arrives with quiet weight-the day after "the" day. The day after diagnosis; the day that lump in my throat was formed; the day that I started to live out this journey with a heavy heart.

It marked the beginning of a journey that tested everything inside of me; in my heart and in my soul. There were seasons of fear, of strength I didn't know that I had, and of love that stretched far beyond time. I didn't know then that the hardest days would reveal the deepest truths about grace, faith, and what it truly means to keep going; to fight, push, and to strive.

Today, on November 1st, I'm reminded that every sunrise carries the promise of new beginnings. The pain doesn't vanish- it transforms. It softens into memory, gratitude, and purpose. It reminds me that "we can do hard things"!

Sunshine After Loss was born from that transformation- learning to find light again, to reinvent myself, and to do it one small moment at a time.

For anyone walking through grief, I hope that today reminds you, too, that new beginnings rise from the most unimaginable places. Here's to love that never leaves, new love, and to mornings that softly whisper "you CAN begin again".

With love and light~

Lisa

Proof that there is Sunshine After Loss