Emily Dean: Finding Light in Life’s Darkest Moments
I think it's only in later life- and this sometimes happens, doesn't it that we realise?
Imagine losing your sister to cancer and then, within three years, both your parents too. This is the heartbreaking reality Emily Dean faced. But instead of letting grief consume her, Emily found an unexpected source of comfort: a little shih tzu named Ray. In this episode of 'How To Be Sad', Helen Russell sits down with Emily, a writer, radio presenter, and podcaster, to discuss how she navigated such profound loss and managed to rediscover joy.
Emily’s story is one of resilience and finding humor even in the darkest times. She opens up about her unusual upbringing, the roles we play within our families, and the concept of 'being' versus 'seeming'. The conversation touches on survivor's guilt and the seemingly endless nature of grief, offering a raw and honest look at what it means to support someone who’s grieving. Through their chat, Emily shares the importance of therapy and personal growth methods like The Hoffman Process.
She reflects on how running away from sadness isn’t always the answer and sometimes, you just need to sit with it. Her book, 'Everyone Died So I Got A Dog', delves deeper into these themes, showing how a pet can bring unexpected joy and companionship during tough times. Helen and Emily also explore how friendships can be a lifeline and the power of reframing sadness to find moments of happiness.
Emily’s insights are not only touching but also filled with warmth and humor, making this episode a must-listen for anyone grappling with grief or supporting someone who is. Tune in to hear Emily Dean’s journey through loss, the healing power of dogs, and how embracing sadness can lead to unexpected joy.