Natalie’s story is a powerful reminder that grief doesn’t only follow death—it can follow the loss of health, independence, identity, and relationships too. After surviving a difficult youth and building a fulfilling life and career, her 40s brought an unexpected battle with fibromyalgia—a chronic, incurable illness that slowly unraveled the life she had worked so hard to create. What began as short-term sick leave soon led to permanent disability, forcing Natalie to let go of her 20-year communications career, her mental sharpness, and even treasured friendships that couldn’t withstand the weight of her new reality.
The grief that followed was deep and multifaceted. Natalie describes the intense emotional toll of losing her mind to “fibro fog,” the heartbreak of being ghosted by close friends, and the overwhelming waves of anger, guilt, depression, and loneliness. Yet, through those darkest times, she found her footing by recognizing these emotions as part of the grieving process—not unlike the grief she experienced when she lost her father as a teen. This insight gave her a framework, a “grief road map,” and the tools she needed to navigate the turbulent stages that come and go.
With time, Natalie discovered that healing didn’t mean returning to who she was—it meant learning to embrace who she had become. Acceptance, self-compassion, honesty, and gratitude became essential anchors. She reshaped her life around her limitations, setting boundaries, redefining hobbies, and surrounding herself with a supportive, understanding community. Though her life looks very different than it once did, Natalie has found peace in the balance between honoring her losses and embracing her new normal.
Natalie’s honest and courageous story offers comfort and validation to anyone grieving a loss—whether of a loved one, a dream, or a part of themselves. To read her full story and 19 other powerful journeys through loss and healing, purchase your copy of Stories of Good Grief today. Let these voices remind you that grief takes many forms—and healing, though never linear, is always possible. Click the link in the comments to get your copy of Stories of Good Grief today!
#StoriesOfGoodGrief #FromTraumaToTriumph #GriefAndGrace
