When Grief Can’t Be Fixed: The Power of Simply Being Present With Katie Hartley - 26

What does it really mean to show up for someone whose pain cannot be fixed?

In this heartfelt episode of Enduring Grief, Sarah Peterson sits down with her dear friend Katie Hartley to talk about grief, friendship, and the quiet power of practical support. Katie shares how her years as a hospice nurse, along with her own personal losses, shaped the way she cared for Sarah after the death of Sarah’s daughter, Marley. Together, they discuss what “being present” truly means, from doing laundry and organizing bills to offering love with no expectations. This conversation is a moving reminder that grief does not need quick answers. It needs steady people, honest love, and the courage to stay close when life feels unbearable.

Episode highlights:

(1:55) Sarah introduces Katie and their long friendship

(6:40) What supporters can learn from hospice care

(8:07) Practical help during deep grief

(13:10) Why “What do you need?” is not always enough

(14:15) How grief changes relationships

(22:46) Feeling inadequate as a grief supporter

(25:02) Learning to live with lasting pain

(29:26) Katie’s top advice for supporters

(36:41) Books, quotes, and language that helped explain grief