#183 // Losing a Child to Suicide: A Family’s Journey Through Grief, Faith and Hope

📍 “You don’t move on. You learn how to move in it.” Today’s episode is unlike any other on The Grief Mentor Podcast. It’s longer, heavier, and deeply needed. Todd and Melissa Schaefer join me to share the story of their precious son, Tristan, who died by suicide just days before his 19th birthday. They open their hearts to us—offering a raw, grace-filled testimony of unimaginable pain, unwavering faith, and the hope that has emerged in the ashes. DISCLAIMER: Sensitive details surrounding the cause of death are discussed up to minute 39-Part 1-The Story of Tristan. Please take care while listening and pause if needed. This conversation unfolds in three parts: The Story of Tristan – Who he was, what changed, and the heartbreaking final days leading up to his death. After the Loss – How their faith, marriage, and identity were shaken—and reshaped—by grief. A New Mission – The birth of Surviving Child Loss, a docuseries (and upcoming full-length documentary) designed to bring comfort, truth, and hope to grieving parents, the Church, and beyond. Whether you've lost your child to suicide or are walking alongside someone who has, this episode will show you you're not alone—and that Jesus is still the Champion, even when the outcome breaks your heart. 💔 Inside This Episode: What grief after suicide really looks like in the first days, months, and years How Todd and Melissa survived the loss—and what helped most Why the Church must do better when it comes to understanding grief How the Surviving Child Loss docuseries is giving voice to parents everywhere What scripture says about suicide—and why you can rest in your child’s salvation 🎧 Listen now and let this powerful testimony bring comfort, clarity, and courage to your grief. 🕊️ You're not alone. There’s hope—even here. 🔗 Visit survivingchildloss.org to support the documentary and watch new stories as they release. _________________________________________________________________   MEMORIAL DAY SALE: EXTENDED-BOOK HERE Was this episode a lifeline for you? 💛 Leave a Review If this episode comforted you or gave you hope, would you leave a written review? Your words help other grieving moms find this podcast on the days they need it most. → Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Grief Mentor Resources: Seven Free Ways The Grief Mentor Can Support You: Free Grief Survival Guide – The exact steps I used to keep me alive in that first year. Download your free copy at The Grief Mentor Website(scroll to the bottom of the page). Free Grief Masterclass – A two-day event packed with tools to help you navigate grief, available on my website. The Grief Mentor Website Need access to Day 2? Reach out, and I’ll send it to you! Teresa’s Grief Worship Playlist – Music is hard, I get it. But this playlist gave me courage for tomorrow and confidence for the future. Find it at the bottom of my homepage or reach out if you need the direct link. Weekly Newsletter – Encouragement straight to your inbox every Tuesday with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and links to both podcast episodes. Become A Grief Mentor Insider Coming Soon: The Grief Mentor Blog – A new way to support you with faith-filled encouragement in your grief journey. Monthly Support Group – A safe space where we say our children’s names, share our stories, and find hope together. Next meeting: June 26th, 2025 Join The Support Group The Grief Mentor Podcast-Released twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Going Deeper Going Deeper: 1-on-1 Grief Mentor Sessions MEMORIAL DAY SALE: DISCOUNTED GRIEF MENTOR SESSION Maybe you’ve realized that living without your child is harder than you ever imagined. If you need deeper support, come sit with me, friend. This isn’t a casual meet-and-greet—it’s an intentional, Spirit-led time where I pray over you before we even speak. If you’re ready for that kind of support, book a Grief Mentor Session. August 2025 Grief Roadmap Mentorship This 12-week mentorship is designed for those ready to absorb faith-based content and process grief in a community handpicked by the Holy Spirit. If your are considering joining us Add your name on the list now—no obligation, just first priority when doors open. XOXO Teresa-Your Grief Mentor 🔗 Join the Free Support Group:The Grief Mentor Support 💙 Book a Grief Mentor Session: Grief Mentor Session ✅ Join the Grief Roadmap Waitlist: The Grief Roadmap