Shannon Ortiz: Building Hope After Suicide Loss
The general rule is: you do want to say something. So yeah, always ask, because I'd rather somebody say no, you know, no, not at all, or even I've never had anybody get upset with me. But even if they were upset for me asking, I'd rather them be upset and safe than you know have to be on the other side and knowing I didn't ask.
Ever wondered how one person can turn personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for others? Meet Shannon Ortiz, the founder of Light After Loss, who joins the 'Hope Discovered' podcast to share her deeply moving story. Shannon lost her husband, Craig, to suicide and has since devoted her life to supporting others who face the same heart-wrenching loss.
In this episode, Shannon opens up about the critical role of postvention—support for those left behind after a suicide—and why it’s as vital as prevention itself. She discusses the often-overlooked risks faced by close family members and friends of suicide victims, who are themselves at a higher risk of suicide. Shannon doesn’t shy away from the tough topics, including the stigma that surrounds suicide and how it can prevent people from seeking the help they need.
She also highlights the importance of safe messaging when discussing suicide, emphasizing that “the general rule is: you do want to say something”. Through Light After Loss and the newly opened Hope and Healing Center, Shannon provides a trauma-focused support system that offers education, resources, and a compassionate community for survivors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by suicide, whether directly or indirectly, offering valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the complex landscape of grief and recovery.