"You have cancer." Four words no one ever wants to hear—four words that changed my husbands life and my life forever.

Five years ago today, I sat beside my husband and heard the diagnosis that altered everything. In that moment, time stood still. It was the beginning of a journey I never could have prepared for—one of love, loss, resilience, and ultimately, learning to live again.

In this episode ofThe Grief Lounge, I reflect on that pivotal day, the heartbreak of anticipatory grief, and the lessons I’ve learned in the years since. From the raw pain of caregiving to the quiet strength of healing, I share how I found light in the darkest moments and why grief, though life-changing, does not have to take everything from us.

If you've ever faced a diagnosis—your own or a loved one’s—you are not alone. This episode is for anyone navigating the complexities of grief, searching for hope, and learning how to rebuild life after loss.

Key topics covered:

• The shock of hearing “You have cancer”
• Grieving a life that changed in an instant
• The emotional toll of caregiving and anticipatory grief
• Finding purpose after profound loss
• Choosing hope and healing in the aftermath

Listen now and discover how life can continue—even after the words you never wanted to hear.

Keywords: cancer diagnosis, anticipatory grief, caregiving, coping with loss, finding hope in grief, grief journey, resilience after loss, mental health, healing after cancer, life after loss

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