10 Years Later | Grief, Addiction, and Honoring Eric’s Legacy with Gary Schaefer

In this deeply moving episode, Gary Schaefer opens up about life a decade after losing his son Eric to addiction. Marking the 10-year anniversary of Eric’s passing, Gary reflects on the emotional terrain of grief—how it evolves, how it’s shaped by addiction, and how community, faith, and memory can become lifelines in the healing process. With honesty and vulnerability, he shares the painful reality of parenting through addiction and the lasting impact it leaves, while also offering insight into how love, support, and purpose can carry us forward.

He reminds us that grief is a long and deeply personal journey, but one where growth is possible. Honoring a loved one’s life in creative, meaningful ways can bring comfort, while education about addiction is key to preventing future loss. Gary stresses the importance of surrounding yourself with people who truly understand, leaning into faith for strength, and staying engaged in life after loss. Through it all, he shows that hope doesn’t erase grief—but it can coexist with it.

If you’ve experienced loss, love someone battling addiction, or want to support others more compassionately—this conversation is for you.

🎧 Listen to the full episode on YouTube
📖 Rhonda Kemp is the author of Remarkable You: Revisiting Love, Regrets & Celebrations
Now available on Amazon → remarkableyoubook.com

https://remarkableyoubook.com/

🌱 Learn more about the Hope After Loss grief group at hopeafterloss.today

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