Episode #41: Joyfully Grieving

Episode #41: Joyfully Grieving

On this powerful episode, we welcome Christi Sumner-Brewer, a life coach, grief recovery specialist, and a woman whose life has been shaped by love, resilience, and hope. Christi opens up about her incredible 30-year journey as a caregiver for her son, who was born with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS), a rare genetic disorder causing chronic heart, lung, and kidney failure, as well as intellectual disabilities and blindness.

Christi shares her family's story—one marked by immense challenges, but also incredible strength. She talks about the heartbreak of losing her son and the ongoing reality of two of her grandchildren sharing the same genetic syndrome. Through it all, she has made it her mission to not only heal but to help others find their way through grief and adversity.

This episode dives deep into the practices that have sustained Christi through the years, from self-care and counseling to community support and professional training. We explore her heartfelt message of "Joyfully Grieving"—a concept that encourages letting grief coexist with love, gratitude, and forward movement. Christi reminds us that healing is a process, but hope and encouragement can be life’s greatest allies.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Christi’s personal caregiving experience and the unique challenges of Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
• The emotional impact of losing her son and how she navigated her grief
• How Christi became a life coach and grief recovery specialist
• The importance of self-care and healing for caregivers and grieving individuals
• The concept of “Joyfully Grieving” and finding balance in life after loss
• How community, connection, and sharing stories can bring hope and encouragement

Who Should Listen:

• Caregivers navigating the challenges of chronic illness or special needs
• Individuals working through grief or loss in their own lives
• Anyone seeking inspiration for moving forward with hope after difficult life circumstances
• Listeners interested in the intersection of family, love, and resilience

Connect With Hosts:
Email: caregiverslikeuspodcast@gmail.com
Website: https://caregiverslike.us/
Become A Guest: https://caregiverslike.us/share-your-journey/

Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about love, loss, and the power of healing. Christi’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that even in our deepest grief, hope is always within reach.