Beyond the Episode: Carla Kaufman Sloan

Understanding Grief After Child Loss

The loss of a child is one of the most devastating experiences a parent can endure. Grief in these circumstances is not linear, predictable, or easily resolved. It can arrive in waves — sometimes quiet and heavy, other times overwhelming and all-consuming. Understanding that there is no “correct” way to grieve is an important first step toward healing.

Living With Loss, Not Moving On

Many grieving parents describe frustration with the phrase “moving on.” Loss does not disappear with time, nor should it. Healing often involves learning how to carry grief alongside love, memory, and daily life. Allowing space for sorrow, rather than suppressing it, can create room for emotional processing and long-term resilience.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

For some, service becomes a meaningful response to loss. Creating or supporting initiatives that help others — especially children and families experiencing hardship — can transform grief into purposeful action. While service does not replace loss, it can provide connection, agency, and a sense of legacy rooted in compassion rather than tragedy.

Signs, Meaning, and Spiritual Curiosity

After profound loss, many people report experiencing signs, synchronicities, or moments of connection that feel deeply personal. Whether understood spiritually or psychologically, these experiences can offer comfort and reassurance. Remaining open yet grounded allows individuals to explore meaning without pressure or expectation.

A New Relationship With Healing

Healing does not mean forgetting or “getting over” loss. It means redefining life with honesty and patience. With support, reflection, and self-compassion, it is possible to build a life that honors both grief and love — allowing them to coexist rather than compete.