B. McMasters, Grief Educator & Coach

03/05/2026

I’m sharing this resource as a way to help bridge support until we offer our next After the Unthinkable: Finding Our Way After Su***de Loss group. If you or someone you know is grieving the loss of someone who died from su***de, please consider this free online resource. It offers an opportunity to receive support from others who understand this type of loss while continuing to address the unique aspects of su***de grief and helping to destigmatize conversations surrounding su***de.

02/26/2026

I often recommend "The Grieving Body" by Mary Frances O’Connor to anyone who wants to better understand what is physically happening during grief.

The book offers a scientific exploration of how loss affects the body. It examines the impact of grief on the cardiovascular, immune, and endocrine systems, explaining why bereavement can bring real and measurable physical symptoms. O’Connor draws on neuroscience and medical research to show that grief is not only an emotional experience, but a biological one.

At the heart of the book is a powerful idea: grief is a form of learning. Our brains and bodies have built internal maps around the presence of someone we love. When that person dies, those maps no longer match reality. The body must gradually adapt to a world in which that loved one is no longer physically present.

This 2.5 hour podcast with Stanford neuroscientist, Andrew Huberman offers insight into her findings and is a great introduction to her work.

My guest is ⁠Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor, PhD⁠, Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Arizona and a world expert on the science ...

02/25/2026

Someone recently reached out to me for resources for children preparing for the end-of-life of a beloved family member. I'm a former elementary school teacher who loves children's literature (thank you, Dr. Young), so I took this task seriously. When supporting children through end of life and grief, the right words and resources matter.

Two of my favorite books are The Rabbit Listened and Lifetimes:

The Rabbit Listened is more about emotions and companioning those who are grieving. It gently teaches us not to rush feelings, not to try to fix what cannot be fixed, and not to let others’ misconceptions of what grief should look like affect our own process. It is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most healing thing we can offer is simple presence. It says the age range on this book is 3-5 years and I say, pfff on that. It's great for all ages. I've actually read this one to a room full of adults; I just didn't make them sit criss-cross applesauce on the floor.

Lifetimes, as the subtitle communicates, is a beautiful way to explain death to children. It can be used in anticipatory grief or in bereavement grief to teach that death is part of the natural cycle of living things. The language is clear, honest, and developmentally appropriate, helping children understand that every living thing has a beginning and an ending.

Both books create space for honest conversation, emotional safety, and connection during some of life’s hardest moments. Links to them in the comments.

Do you have a recommendation for resources for children? Let me know.

TCF Walla Walla Cason's Place: Grief Support for Children and Families of Eastern Oregon Walla Walla Community Hospice

02/20/2026

I’ve had the chance to be part of Camp Amanda in the past, and I can honestly say it’s a meaningful experience not just for the kids, but for the adults who volunteer too. It creates a safe space where kids can talk about their person, feel understood, and learn healthy ways to cope, all while doing normal camp things and connecting with other kids who get it.

If you know a family who might benefit, I really encourage you to take a look and share it.

02/19/2026

Today marks 75 years since my grandmother died by su***de. Yesterday was 50 years since my grandfather, her husband, took his life on the eve of the 25th anniversary of her death.

My grandmother herself was born after her own father died by su***de.

In my family, grief was passed down in silence. It was unspoken, but it was deeply felt.

Today, as a grief educator, I honor their memory by ending that silence. I have learned how to mourn authentically, and I help others to do the same.

In sharing these stories, we break cycles and create space for healing.

02/14/2026

02/13/2026

If Valentine's Day was something important to you as a couple, this day can feel especially heavy after the death of your spouse. When a date held meaning in your relationship shows up on the calendar, it can stir up love, longing, anger, gratitude, and deep sadness all at once. There is no right way to feel.

02/12/2026

Treat yourself to a calming tea ceremony and sound bath to gently reset your nervous system.

My friend Anna is a truly lovely, grounding presence. She creates spaces that feel safe, intentional, and restorative, which is something so many of us need, especially when we are carrying stress, loss, or simply the weight of everyday life.