Contributions by Amy Dozier

“I knew that I could grow in this strange space of simultaneous grief and gratitude.”

Some days, it feels like a long stretch to be thankful for these seemingly harsh lessons in my life, but it's a necessary part of healing as I turn grief into gratitude.

My TAPS family helps me find my way to safe harbor by being the buoy that keeps me afloat in rough waters.

Thank you for being there for me in my darkest hours and in my brightest accomplishments.

Today, have your moments, live the traditions, and celebrate the new life you're creating in memory of a wonderful man!

This Valentine's Day, my wish for you is love. Love your past. Love your story-the parts you hate and wished never happened, the parts you're still writing.

Oh my God. This is real. Jon's dead. Never fully exhaling, I crumbled to the floor.