For Our Bereaved Families
A place of compassion, remembrance, and connection
My name is Kathy Leavens, and my heart has been forever shaped by the love and the loss of my three sons — Eric (2005), Jacob (2013), and Matthew (2019). Each brought light and love into my life, and each loss has become part of my ongoing journey through grief.
As you enter this space of reflection and support, may you know you are not alone.
Understanding Grief
Grief after losing someone you love — especially a child — can change every part of you. Words rarely feel big enough, and emotions can arrive in ways that surprise you.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and no timeline you are expected to follow.
About Grief
Grief can reshape identity, relationships, and how you experience time.
Early stages may feel protective — helping you survive the unbearable.
Some speak openly; others grieve quietly — both are valid.
Healing is not linear.
Common Emotional Responses
Shock, numbness, denial, confusion, disbelief
Guilt, anger, loneliness, despair, sadness, regret
Emotions may cycle, return, or soften unpredictably
These feelings are not weakness, but reflections of deep love.
Grief isn’t something we “get over.”
It becomes part of who we are — a quiet companion, shaped by love.
You may want connection or you may need solitude — either is okay.
Support may come from:
• Family or close friends
• Bereaved parent communities
• Mental health professionals
• Spiritual or faith communities
• Creative or ritual-based expression
• Others who have walked a similar path
Surviving children and siblings, and other members of your family, will grieve too — they need reassurance, connection, and permission to feel their emotions fully.
Bereavement Resources
We provide multiple vetted options so you may find what best fits your needs:
- MISS Foundation
- Compassionate Friends
- Bereaved Parents USA
- Grief.com
- National Alliance for Children’s Grief
- The Tears Foundation
- Helping Parents Heal (special needs, fathers, and sibling supports)
- The WARM Place – Grief Support Center
- Grief is a Sneaky Bitch (TED Talk)
- Grief is a Sneaky Bitch (podcast)
If you’d like help selecting a resource, please reach out — no request is too small.
Forever Loved Memorial Wall
A space to honor and celebrate the beloved lives of those lost to LGS. Sharing keeps memories alive and connected to the community.
Share a photo, story, or tribute when the time feels right.
Celebration of Life Butterfly Release
A biennial remembrance event where we gather to honor lives, legacies, and the love that continues.
A meaningful ceremony offering reflection, symbolism, and shared connection.
Some families choose to invite donations to the LGS Foundation in lieu of flowers — a way for their loved one’s legacy to continue supporting hope, research, and families.
We are honored to offer customized remembrance cards for families to share with loved ones, memorial services, and supporters.
To request email: info@lgsfoundation.org
My heart is with you.
If you are in need of confidential support, or if you simply want someone to listen who understands, I am here. 📩 kathy@lgsfoundation.org
Updated 11/17/25 (KK)
