Grief: Losing A Parent

Mona and JR discuss the grief of losing a parent. Specifically, losing their fathers. In reflection not only do we hear the first-hand accounts of losing a loved one step by step but also the regrets of missed moments that no longer are taken for granted. Mona realizes the pressure she feels to push herself forward in life with a deep sense of gratitude for her parent's sacrifices. Join us as we further heal and find beauty in the unexpected story that is life on earth.
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[@johannafernandez6879]

Here’s to our beloved fathers, may they watch over us always.

[@Poohsister8]

My dad is watching over me from heaven!

[@kimtaylor3007]

Amen 🙏🏾 Miss you Dad ❤

[@kathrynegichangah-ht4jt]

Amen!!!!! Gosh I miss and love him sooo much!

[@Tori59065]

I lost my dad earlier this year. I really needed to hear this conversation.

[@zzizahacallar]

I lost mine when I was 17.

[@Riteideas]

You never know if you’ll regret it… Father- died at 68 Mom-died a year later at 68 Brother diagnosed with cancer at 69 Me-praying that I live to prove my fears of dying in my 60’s wrong

[@MM.Pink.Balloon]

Holding hands .. I understand Same worries 💔

[@cute_taurusdc6710]

Thank you for this. My mom died when I was 27 and now I’m 47. The scariest part is I’m the same age mom was when she died. Losing her so young, I make it my business to make more memories with my daughters ( ages 30 & 26).

[@qianalatrice]

I’m in an early motherless daughter group and the way someone described it was like holding your breath until you reached their age and then exhaling when you get past it. I felt that. I wasn’t living but just serving. I was 20 and my mom was 39 now, I’m 44. It gets easier, I promise. ❤

[@cute_taurusdc6710]

@ thank you. Taking it day by day.

[@dee78nyce]

I really felt every word of this pod cast. My dad died February 2015 and mom March 2022 😢😢 Live everyday to the fullest!! I miss my parents so very much!!

[@MrC15elayne]

This was the podcast I didn’t know I needed. I actually had tears listing to your stories. Lost my father this past January unexpectedly and for a while there is so much regret for all the things I could have done for him.

[@AwfTheRecord]

I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m glad the episode could offer some comfort. Wishing you peace as you continue to heal - JR

[@ebonywilliams2672]

Thank you both for sharing your stories. My dad passed in 2020, 20 days before my 32nd birthday. Four years later that feel like only months to me. I feel so much regret like I didn’t do enough to save him. He essentially died of blood poisoning from severe COPD, more carbon dioxide in his blood than oxygen. He needed to be in the hospital but there restrictions because of COVID. He died in the wee hours of the morning. I waited until my sister woke up to tell her our father died. I never want to have a wedding because I won’t have him to walk me down the aisle or have a father-daughter dance. I don’t want an empty seat or a picture, I want my dad. 😭 I am sure though that he sent my son to be my angel on earth while he’s away. Thankful for memories, but it’s hard. Life is never the same.

[@siriamartinez957]

As a daughter of immigrants the comment that you shared that it is an honor and a privilege to take care of our parents and give back to them for all the sacrifices they made for us resonated so much with me! Thank you for this episode!

[@AwfTheRecord]

Thank you so much for sharing this! It truly means a lot to hear that the message resonated with you. Honoring our parents’ sacrifices is something so special. 💛 - JR

[@hairbyziyadah]

Thank you for being so willing to be transparent. Jennette, your spirit has always come across as genuine; hearing your story makes me happy for you.

[@AwfTheRecord]

Thank you so much for the kind words. Appreciate your support 💕 - JR

[@reneerasul3347]

No doubt, y'all helped A LOT of people with this one.. frfr. 🎉

[@EnthusiasticCave-uj1kv]

Ya’ll got me crying buckets.

[@pattymcsnackers]

So our patriarch gained his wings two days ago. Today he showed up while we were picking out caskets. The lady went to open it to show us the inside and it had a DAD medallion on it. She quickly removed it and carried on. My family and I looked at each other and said WELP I guess this is the color he likes. Now I’m home looking through my for you on YT and THIS VIDEO. I LOVE YOU DADDY AND I NEED YOU PLEASE CONTINUE TO GUIDE ME THROUGH THIS! 🥺😭💔

[@Poohsister8]

I am praying for you during this difficult time!

[@missynomvula1636]

My dad also pass very shortly (13 days) after pancreatic cancer diagnosis. That cancer is a beast. Stay strong. It get better with time.

[@SarahBoison]

Thank you so much for this. My dad died in June 2024 and it rocked my world in a way that was very unexpected. I come from an immigrant background and my dad was the rock of our family. I’m still really early in my grief journey but it helps to hear how others continue to deal with their grief and the loss of their parents. Thank you. ❤

[@ShaB._ShaB]

🙏🏾

[@JvstHere]

I lost my dad very unexpectedly in June, too. It’s a slow process. Be patient with yourself and let yourself grieve.

[@lauraeboasongue]

This episode was superb! I am fortunate enough to still have my parents with me, yet I felt everything you said to my core. Your stories are just exceptional and I pray you can rest in knowing you did more than enough, you inspire many in the simplest most joyful and profound ways, and both your fathers would be so proud. Also, every angel that helped you along the way, what a gift; they sure picked the right ones!!! I hope life has been sweet to them. Grateful I listened to this today 🙌🏾

[@AwfTheRecord]

Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m so grateful this episode spoke to you, and I appreciate you taking the time to share this. 🙏🏾 - JR

[@khunter5107]

Thank you for sharing. I lost my dad to pancreatic cancer in 2021. That cancer is no joke. We were super close and he was my hero. I miss him so much. Thanks for sharing, it gave me a moment to grieve.

[@MM.Pink.Balloon]

Plse medical monitor - I am 💔

[@nikkim.6736]

Awww I needed this. Yes I just lost my dad on 9/16 and my mom on 10/23. This is a grief I next expected or wanted to navigate. An unbearable pain 😢 I wouldn’t wish it on anyone

[@tashataylor8242]

@nikkim.6736, I am so sorry for your loss. I have been where you are. I lost my mom a month after my 30th birthday, and navigating this grief has been hard. It has been years since her passing but it feels like yesterday. Sending hugs and prayers your way. ❤️

[@rashidat1009]

Sending hugs to you ❤

[@Babycakesj]

💜

[@SibbKhanyi]

This conversation!!!! Healing me . I lost my dad 8 years ago Thank you for this !!!

[@AEHarris]

@45:25 @JR thank you so much for that bit of wisdom for @Mona and us all. I've often shared with friends and remind myself that "being still" isn't doing anything. There are times un life when Gid needs us to do exactly that, sit still, be in it, just be having grace and gratitude for ALL the things.

[@francisw3456]

Grief has no expiration date! Don't be upset when you struggle to speak bout it.

[@chazzylove411]

Thank you so much for sharing your stories. I just lost my mom on October 18th (she was 52), and the grief I feel is all-consuming. I am 28, and this new normal is so difficult. I think daily about if she knew she was loved and if she was in pain (she passed in her sleep). I know it will get better with time, but right now, it still hurts. 😢

[@ReginaldFinley-c9j]

Wow!!! Thank God Thank God, Hallelujah, Thank God. He guided you all to this moment. Continue to be an inspiration to us.

[@rhondarice4132]

Mona give yourself some grace girl!

[@tamarawilliams1380]

❤😢❤😢❤🥹🤭♥️😘 the array of emotions I felt watching this. I never talk about my dad and I didn’t know I needed this. Thank you both for being so vulnerable, so transparent with your stories.

[@kimshady604]

Only one minute into the video and I’m already in tears. Thank you both for sharing your stories and posting about this. My dad passed 5 years ago from gallbladder cancer - just one day after my birthday. I had just turned 23 and I could tell he was fighting for his life because he did not want to pass on my birthday. He was protecting me and thinking about me even during his final moments… I’m not ready to see him anytime soon, but knowing we’ll be reunited someday makes me less afraid for whenever my time comes. Love you daddy. ❤

[@veramajor9420]

I love the fact that you said rest of your success and it’s very difficult for many people to do that and that is one of the greatest things that God wants us to do is to rest in the finish work. Our lives have already been carved out by God and now we’re just walking through it.

[@rashidat1009]

I cried this whole episode. Like you two I lost my dad as well. He passed in 2013. It wasn't the best experience for me because of his wife, so I didn't have time to grieve, I didn't grieve until maybe 2 years later but still haven't fully but I have come to terms with it. One thing that struck me is when she said that she found herself apologizing in her dreams to her dad. Because in my dreams of my dad we never talk audibly but there's an understanding between us telepathically, but each time I feel the presence of his wife in the dream and she's keeping him away from me. On another note when my dad passed I felt so vulnerable at the realization that I needed a man, a protector, a provider, someone to care for me and that was scary for me to put so much trust in someone. Partly because I was raised to be super independent which isn't always the best thing, it leaves you believing that you don't need anyone and that you can do all yourself, but that's draining. Thanks for reading my long comment.

[@OnyinyeNwokorie]

Thank you for sharing your stories. I was in tears many times listening. Sending so much love to you both ❤

[@cggoogle7255]

You guys do great interviews but THIS!!! Truly you took it #AwfTheRecord. A precious God send... I'm grateful🎉❤✨️🤗

[@feliciaabraham5967]

Thank you ladies for your vulnerability. What a captivating episode. Looking at your beautiful homes and families on social and I would have never known the mountains and hurdles you’ve had to overcome in your life. It further reenforces that we should treat everyone kindly because you never know what they are experiencing. ❤ Thank you. Great therapy session for us all.

[@glynisturner983]

My dad died 10/22, not quite a month ago. This really hit home and I definitely relate. We knew we were running out of time, so I saw him as much as I could and worked hard not to have any regrets. I can honestly say I don't have any but I feel so unmoored.

[@AwfTheRecord]

I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. I’m glad the episode resonated with you. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. - JR

[@JeannetteAkinesGuessADONAI]

This was a great conversation. Both of my parents are deceased so I get exactly what you conveyed. It’s still hard, but neither one of them are suffering.

[@richardmurphy796]

Powerful ladies. This episode deeply makes you reflect. Also, let's you know to enjoy every moment. Thanks both of you for being so vulnerable in this.

[@stacy-annsubahwon9414]

Such authenticity and the safety in space to be so vulnerable with each other is beautiful to witness. Love this ❤

[@dnisha4ever167]

This is really putting things into perspective for me. I am a Daddys girl. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer 2 weeks ago, and I have been avoiding thinking or talking about it. I have been going about life as if something major have not impacted the family. Thank you both for sharing.

[@LatanyaPeeples-nu2we]

I really enjoyed this episode. I lost my mom January of 2023 and it’s been a real struggle but you learn to take things day by day. It’s like living in this world all alone. 😢

[@PGriffin19751]

I lost my dad in February. The feeling of knowing I will never have a conversation with him hits me hard somethings. He was 81 and I guess its selfness of me not want him to rest until we see each other again. I know he was proud of me and love me unconditionally. a few weeks before his death he told me so. Thanks Ladies for sharing. I needed this episode to know I'm not alone.

[@BringMeHomeEbony]

For a woman myself who lost her dad at 6, this I get. So grateful for this podcast and you being transparent. Love the episodes.

[@AwfTheRecord]

So sorry for your loss 🙏🏾 glad to hear this episode spoke to you 💕 - JR

[@shanty2404]

I lost both of my parents before I was 35. I never knew I would be here, it has been unexpected and difficult. The part where they talked about feeling guilty for not being able to give back to their Dad is so me. My Mom passed 3 yrs ago, I was financially set and could send her money and do little things for her which I loved. But I really wanted to be able to travel and give her experiences but her health decline rapidly her last 4 yrs of her life. She had a tough life and I wanted so much to give her things she was never able to give herself…I am just in tears and her birthday is on Sunday…whew

[@Poohsister8]

I am praying 🙏 for you!

[@belindalindsey607]

Thank you ladies for being so vulnerable. I share in the sadness of the loss of my father this earlier this year. I still don't think I have been able to fully grieve him. This has been helpful to hear.

[@francisw3456]

Whew! Thank you for this one.. I lost my mom at a young age, after a very tumultuous and partially absence on childhood due to drug addiction. The lack of closure has ALWAYS been my biggest regret ❤ thank you for sharing 🙏🏿

[@professhercat]

I just want to commend the display of courage here. Very touching and insightful episode. Thank you JR and Mona!

[@cosmicsalma]

This was life changing. Thank you ladies for sharing your stories and being so vulnerable.

[@ElizabethAlba-u2i]

WOWWWW! This episode had me crying my eyes out. I haven’t experienced the loss of my parents but it’s one of my biggest fears. Knowing that one day they’ll be gone and wanting to experience my biggest moments with them by my side. I try my best to spend as much time with them and gift them experiences because they’re living this life for the first time too. &&& just like Jeanette said-one of my biggest joys is being able to give back to them. Thanks for being so vulnerable with us. Keep doing what you’re doing, I truly believe both of your dads are sooooo PROUD.

[@nca4794]

I cried throughout this episode, but the part where Mona recalled her sister saying she'll never get the chance to take care of her parents, resonated so much. It's a conversation and a perspective I've never shared with my own siblings, but that sentiment is so real. First generation kids put a lot of pressure on ourselves to represent ourselves and our families well. And, in a way, the ability to take care of our parents is the ultimate "prize." So, although I'm fortunate enough to have both of my parents, I immediately connected with how heartbreaking that would feel. I'm sorry for the loss of your fathers. I sincerely thank you for sharing your journeys. Yes, there were tears, but so so much light. So many blessings and triumphs. Surely they are so proud of you. We all are. 🙏🏾❤️❤️❤️

[@ashleynichole867]

Thank you both so much for being courageous enough to talk about your losses. This was needed. Thank you for being willing to open up to us

[@lorettastrozier2913]

Best episode ever so far, I really enjoyed it and I'm not the one to leave comments. Thank you for this one great.😢😊

[@user-vn4vy6js7n]

Thank you so much for sharing. I lost my father 25 years ago when I was in college and hearing your stories made me give myself grace for how I dealt with grief back then and now.

[@Allthingshnede]

Thank you ladies for being vulnerable on such a hard topic. I enjoy watching you both and you continue to inspire me. This is what true sisterhood looks and feels like. Thank you!❤️

[@CarolinaLasso-n5u]

It's such a wonderful episode. Thank you both for sharing your experiences. I love hearing the stories of immigrant families and children. It helps me feel that I am not alone❤

[@majidahbello]

Thank you for sharing❤ So many emotions watching and listening

[@thomas.r.wilson2867]

And when a loved one appearance dies it's like a part of you completely goes missing I know how difficult it is, you are in my thoughts and prayers that you know that girls

[@staceyd8765]

Thank you both for sharing.

[@srswms5157]

Thank you, ladies 💖

[@sheilah.a]

Thank you for this episode. My father passed away in 2021 and I have had the hardest time processing the loss...Even after going to therapy. Hearing both of your stories has helped me to start processing emotions that I haven't been able to identify since he passed. Can't thank you both enough for your vulnerability. I am grateful! May God continue to bless you. ❤

[@MissKi89]

Not me tearing up at the THOUGHT of losing my dad. This was a beautiful discussion.

[@chaltuomar1695]

Wow I feel so seen! I also lost my dad 6 years ago yesterday. We were very close. I resonate with the feelings of our loved ones not seeing the fruits of all the hard work and as immigrant children we just want to give the world to our parents who scarified so much for us. Thank you both for being vulnerable and sharing your stories. ❤❤❤

[@andreasmith6976]

Great episode. Cried so hard. I am from 🇯🇲 . I can relate to every you guys said . My mom died in May of this year, she was 88 and I still wished she was here , so I can only imagine you both losing you dads so young❤

[@mikemelendez-mccormick437]

Thanks for this it was very hard for me, too, and I'm still going through it. it was very helpful

[@Corin23_]

Thank you so much for this video. My dad has had lung cancer for the last year now and I’m scared to death to lose him. My dad told my mom and I that he’s just so tired and I’m mentally preparing for that day while praying that it doesn’t come.

[@ShaB._ShaB]

Thank you for sharing. I love the show

[@youngtoday7651]

I love how composed and vulnerable you both were in this episode. Thank you for sharing such personal stories with us ❤❤

[@nadinelindsay3012]

Yeah losing a parent is so incredible hard. Totally true...the loss is always with you. I lost 2 in a nine month period.

[@sugamama9444]

I feel ya, lost Mom in May 2024 and Dad in Aug 2024 🥺

[@Maymunah101]

Aww I am so happy you guys talked about this topic because I lost my Mom when I was 8 I am now 27 and I find myself struggling a lot because I often wonder what kind of advice my Mom would give me as a women. 😢😔

[@saphahmelkisedek9762]

Lawd! I don't even want to begin to think of what'll happen to me when my daddy passes. My husband already told me he's ready because he knows I will be completely spaced out and not present. I'm thankful that he will be supportive. My dad is 75 😬

[@deidreej]

Thank you for sharing 🙏🏽 🙏🏽

[@RakaelBoozierre]

BEAUTIFUL EPISODE

[@fannyalberto4907]

Thank You so much for sharing. Lost my dad 25 years ago to Alzheimer; wishing I had asked some of the questions I always wanted to ask but did not.

[@storiestoinspire261]

This was a good one. I so appreciate your unique lived experiences. So relatable to mine for the first time in a long time. ❤

[@stephaniebowen1541]

I’m not an immigrant but that’s my goal and honor to take care of my parents 🙏🏾❤️

[@TitusMatthews-x4h]

rip, condolences to both of y’all parent, guardian , two beautiful queens of color, sisterhood, friends etc

[@arwoods1237]

Thank you so much for this podcast. What a blessing. Thank you again.

[@charleneowens4276]

Love this episode! Tear jerker but yet so powerful. Thanks for sharing my beautiful sisters.

[@missbubby007]

AMAZING episode!! Would have loved to have seen something like this in the midst of my grief but thank you ladies for sharing. It's never an easy topic to discuss

[@latrissegomez3591]

I can totally relate. My brother died from pneumonia at the age of 48. My birthday was yesterday and I thought, how many more years do I have left? It’s best to live at the moment! Accomplish our desires today.

[@anaamaro5736]

This chat was so deep and genuine. Thank you both❤

[@dewdan11dnd46]

💝🌟Ladies, the moment of truth and deepest gratitude, in every thing you spoke about ✨Thank you 💋☀️🌖💞

[@CynicalBlahBlog]

This episode was so emotional 😩

[@lessonslearned5536]

Hello to both of you! I can’t wait to watch this entire video

[@petamicfo8813]

Thank you for this! 0n November 9 will be 3 years since losing both my brothers it was the hardest process of my life,

[@leilaniaki344]

Beautiful podcast.

[@drdapson]

Loved this ❤

[@Poohsister8]

My dad died when I was a teenager 30 years ago on my oldest brother's birthday 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊. I was in America 🇺🇸 and he was in Nigeria 🇳🇬. Thank you God my dad passed away doing the work of the Lord. My dad is in a better place in heaven. I thank God for this. I am praying 🙏 for you all that have lost your dad's that God will comfort your heart ❤️ 💙 💜 💖 💗 💘 and give you peace in Jesus' Name, Amen!

[@CryMeARiver13]

I hope America is listening @38:56……“it’s your honor and your privilege, you strive to be able to take care of your parents”

[@Poohsister8]

You lose someone who was a big part of the household!

[@paulah1803]

I lost my Dad in 2000 and I just lost my Mom last year😔

[@LadyEvolving]

My dad passed when he was 39. I’ll be 39 next year. My mom is currently battling stage 4 small intestine cancer. I realize I keep myself busy to avoid this reality. I know this won’t help me in the long run. I just don’t know what my first step should be. Keeping busy seems ideal but not right

[@AwfTheRecord]

That’s such a heavy burden to carry. I hope you give yourself the grace to take things one day at a time. Even small steps can be meaningful. Sending you strength and support 🙏🏾 - JR

[@kdrewtabb]

My comment was on the other video that's now private 😢

[@thomas.r.wilson2867]

One more thing, it's God's promise, but you're both going to see your dad's again, 1,000 years in heaven it's only one day here on Earth, so if you both live 1,000 years more you're only going to be away from your daddy's for one day, remember that's one of the meanings of the Resurrection, Satan's lie about death, you don't die if you believe in Christ, 💯🆗❤️🙌🙏🙌

[@rosemorrison5083]

I don't know why I thought I could watch this at 745am while at work... your story is almost exactly my story... dang it all came back within the first 10 mins... ughhh... gotta come back to it after work 😊. Thank you for this... 17 years later... grief will never disappear. Daughters who have lost their beloved fathers... we are many and we need to talk about it. ❤ 🫂 🙏

[@melaninqueenfit4747]

Such a great podcast and episode! Your vulnerability is so appreciated! 🤎🙌🏾

[@paulah1803]

I lost my Dad in 2000 and I just lost my Mom last year😔