09/14/2025
When Tragedy Strikes Without Warning 💔
Just four days ago, Erika Kirk became part of a community no one ever wants to join, young widows navigating life after unimaginable loss. When her husband, Charlie Kirk, was murdered at Utah Valley University, she was thrust into a journey no one is prepared for.
As a researcher studying sudden death and widowhood, and as a young mother of three who understands this path personally, I am in awe of Erika’s remarkable strength in these first devastating days.
Her courage, speaking publicly about faith while grieving with two young children, embodies the resilience I’ve witnessed throughout my career.
My work in this field began during 9/11, when I saw how ordinary people found extraordinary strength as their worlds collapsed overnight. That lived experience, paired with years of research using portraiture methodology, continues to reveal one truth: behind every tragedy lies a human story of incredible courage.
To Erika and the Kirk family, my deepest sympathy. Please know, you are not alone. As one widow to another, Erika, I am here in any way you may need during this unimaginable time.
Her story will be part of my upcoming presentation at The Masters Series on Portraiture (Sept 29th), a space where we explore how lived experience and research illuminate the path from devastation to resilience.
