We envision a world where grief doesn’t isolate, but connects. Where the ache of loss becomes a gateway to empathy, courage, and community. Our vision is rooted in the belief that those whoe endured deep loss can become the most powerful leaders, heal- ers, and change-makers. At H&G Leadership Lighthouse, we dre- am of communities where vulnerability is not hidden. but held. Where every child or adult who has lost a parent finds belonging, purpose, and renewed hope.
Welcome to the H&G Leadership Lighthouse, a beacon of hope and empowerment for those who have lost a parent. Inspired by my beloved parents, Hadas and Germai Ermias, our organization offers mentorship, support, and resou- rces to help individuals navigate their grief and build brighter futures.
Some losses do not pass.They become part of you.I was just thirteen years old when I lost my mother.In one moment, the world I knew — safety, warmth, unconditional love — shattered. I was a child learning how to breathe inside grief, learning how to grow up without the arms that once held me steady. I carried that loss quietly for years, believing strength meant silence.Then life asked more of me than I thought I could give.Just four months after becoming a mother myself — while I was still learning how to nurture new life — I lost my father. I had just welcomed my son into the world… and suddenly, the last pillar of my foundation collapsed beneath me.The grief was overwhelming.The kind that fills every room with silence.The kind that makes even joy feel fragile.I remember looking at my newborn son and thinking, How do I keep going when so much is missing?And then a question rose — one that would change the course of my life forever:If I am struggling this deeply as a grown woman… what happens to a child who loses both parents?Who holds them when the world falls apart?Who reminds them that they still matter?How does a young heart survive such a loss alone?That question didn’t break me.It transformed me.And from that moment, something greater than my pain was born.H&G Leadership Lighthouse was created not only from grief — but from purpose. From the decision to turn loss into light. From the belief that no child, no young soul, should ever have to walk the path of grief without love, guidance, and hope.This lighthouse is a safe harbor — a place where children and young adults who have lost their parents are seen, supported, and held with care. A place where pain is acknowledged, voices are heard, and healing is honored.The name H&G carries the heart of this mission.It stands for my parents — Hadas and Germai — two extraordinary human beings whose love shaped who I am, and whose kindness left a mark on everyone they encountered. Their compassion, their faith, their generosity — these are the lights that continue to guide this work.Their legacy lives here.In every child we support.In every mentor we train.In every light we help reignite.When I wrote my book, Embracing Life After Death, I poured my entire story into its pages — not only to share my own healing, but to build a bridge for others walking a similar road. Every single dollar from that book goes directly to H&G Leadership Lighthouse, because this mission is not separate from my life — it is my life.This is my promise to every grieving child, every aching heart:You are not alone.You are not forgotten.You are deeply loved.If you have lost a parent and are wondering how to keep going — know this:Your future is still waiting for you.Your light has not gone out.And you belong here.Welcome to the Lighthouse.We’ve been waiting for you.
With all my love,Dina ErmiasFounder & CEOH&G Leadership Lighthouse
At H&G Leadership Lighthouse, we believe that the best mentors are not defined by titles they’re defined by heart.
We welcome mentors from all walks of life who have the courage to show up, the wisdom to listen, and the desire to help others grow through grief.
If you’re ready to offer your heart, your presence, and your lived wisdom we would be honored to walk this journey with you.
Here’s how to become a mentor with H&G Leadership Lighthouse:
For all application-related questions, reach out to us at info@coachdinaermias.com or Dina.armays@gmail.com
Discussion Boards – Open space for questions, encouragement, and solidarity.
Resources for children and families dealing with grief.
– Website: https://childrengrieve.org
– Offers programs and resources for those grieving any loss, including parents.
– Website: https://www.griefrecoverymethod.com
– Mentoring and support for those who lost parents, fostering resilience and leadership.
– Website: https://coachdinaermias.com/empowerment-legacy-for-women/
– Resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.
– Website: https://www.afsp.org
– Resources on grief and end-of-life issues.
– Website: https://www.hospicefoundation.org
– Resources, courses, and community support related to grief.
– Website: https://www.whatsyourgrief.com
– 24/7 confidential support for people in distress.
– Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
– Text “HELLO” to 741741 for confidential support.
– Website: https://www.crisistextline.org
– Provides support and information to those who are grieving in the UK.
– Website: https://www.cruse.org.uk
Samaritans
– Offers emotional support for anyone in emotional distress.
– Website: https://www.samaritans.org
– Supports families when a child dies or is facing imminent loss.
– Website: https://www.childbereavementuk.org
Child Bereavement UK
– Focuses on mental health and emotional wellbeing, including grief support.
– Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au
– Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention.
– Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au
– Free and confidential 24/7 counseling for young people.
– Website: https://kidshelpline.com.au
– A global network providing emotional support to those in distress.
– Website: https://www.befrienders.org
– Resources for suicide prevention and grief support.
– Website: https://www.iasp.info
Open to Hope
– Resources for those grieving the loss of a loved one.
– Website: https://www.opentohope.com
– Online chat service offering grief support.
– Website: https://griefchat.co.uk
– Tools, articles, and support for grieving individuals worldwide.
– Website: https://www.thegrieftoolbox.com
This memoir reflects on Didion’s experience of grieving the sudden death of her husband and the illness of her daughter. It’s a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the complexity of grief, as Didion captures the disorientation and loneliness that often accompany profound loss, making it a valuable read for those navigating similar emotions.
Gawande addresses the realities of aging and death with compassion and insight, highlighting the importance of quality of life and making meaningful choices in the face of mortality. Through compelling anecdotes and research, he challenges the medical community to prioritize patient-centered care, ultimately encouraging readers to consider what truly matters in their own lives.
In this heartfelt reflection, the author shares her journey through grief after losing both her parents. This book offers powerful strategies for building inner strength, finding unexpected joy, and rediscovering purpose. With insights and practical advice, Embracing Life After Death serves as a guiding light for anyone coping with loss. Each book sold supports H&G Leadership Lighthouse, an organization dedicated to mentoring individuals who have lost their parents, especially children. empowering a new generation to find hope and healing.
After the death of her husband, Sandberg shares her personal journey intertwined with research on resilience. The book offers actionable strategies for rebuilding life after loss, emphasizing the importance of community, finding purpose, and embracing joy again, reminding readers that a life filled with happiness is still possible even after grief.
A practical guide that provides actionable steps and insights on how to process grief and recover from loss. This resource demystifies the grieving process, offering readers not just empathy but clear tools to help them navigate their emotions comprehensively.
In this poignant book, Lewis shares his private reflections on grief following the death of his wife. With raw honesty, he delves into his feelings of betrayal, despair, and ultimately, hope, presenting a deeply relatable account that resonates with anyone who has faced loss, capturing the tumultuous landscape of grief in a profound and articulate manner.
Devine offers a fresh perspective on grief and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging pain and loss in a society that often minimizes it. Providing validation and understanding, she empowers readers to embrace their feelings and navigate their grief journey without the pressure of societal expectations.
A memoir by a neurosurgeon who reflects on his life and mortality after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Through his poignant storytelling, Kalanithi explores the intersection of life and death, offering profound insights into what it means to live fully and with purpose, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
Ostaseski, a co-founder of the Zen Hospice Project, shares lessons about living fully while preparing for death. His insights advocate for mindfulness and presence, encouraging readers to embrace the inevitability of death as a catalyst for appreciating life more deeply.
This book provides a new perspective on grief as a manifestation of love and explores how individuals can continue to honor their loved ones while moving forward in life. Lee’s approach emphasizes that grief doesn’t end; it transforms into a lasting connection, helping readers find solace and meaning in their memories.
– An essential introduction to the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
– Read more: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-matters-most/201512/the-nature-grief
– A reflective piece discussing the complexities of grief and offering advice for those coping with loss.
– Read more: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/22/opinion/grief-funeral.html
. 3. “The Grief We Carry” by Joan Didion
– An introspective look at Didion’s experiences with grief following her husband’s death and how it shaped her understanding of life and loss.
– Read more: Available in collections
– Outlines how sobriety can help in the grieving process and emphasizes self-care during loss.
– Read more: Various platforms
. 5. “How to Help a Grieving Friend” by John Singer
– A guide for supporting friends and loved ones who are grieving, offering practical advice.
– Read more: https://theconversation.com/how-to-help-a-grieving-friend-103653
. 6. “Grief Is Not a Disorder, and It Doesn’t Need to Be Treated” by Johann Hari
– Explores societal misconceptions about grief and advocates for understanding mourning as a natural process.
– Read more: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2018/04/grief-loss-society/558168/
– An exploration of the neuroscience behind grief and the emotional toll it takes.
– Read more: https://www.thecut.com/2018/06/the-science-of-grief.html
. 8. “Your Grief is Valid: 10 Misconceptions About Grief” by Amy Wright Glenn
– Acknowledges common misconceptions about grief and encourages readers to embrace their feelings.
– Read more: https://whatsyourgrief.com/grief-misconceptions/
– Discusses the importance of rituals in the grieving process and how they can aid healing.
– Read more: Various platforms
– An examination of grief for those in caregiving professions, offering strategies for self-care.
– Read more: https://www.mindful.org/navigating-grief-in-helping-profession/
– Provides a practical overview of ways to cope with grief, including common reactions and strategies.
– Read more: https://www.health.com/conditions/grief/what-to-know-about-grief-4170964
– Explores grief experienced by caregivers, highlighting the need for care for the caregiver.
– Read more: Various platforms
. 13. “Coping with Grief During the Holidays” by American Psychological Association
– Offers advice on how to navigate grief during festive seasons.
– Read more: https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/grief-holidays
– Highlights how creative expression can be a therapeutic tool in processing grief.
– Read more: Art therapy platforms
. 15. “Grief and Loss: The Impact on Mental Health” by National Alliance on Mental Illness
– Discusses how grief affects mental health and when to seek help.
– Read more: https://nami.org/Your-Journey/Individuals-with-Mental-Illness/Grief-and-Loss
– Guidance on addressing grief in professional environments and fostering a compassionate culture.
– Read more: Professional HR platforms
. 17. “The Loss of a Child: Coping with Grief” by American Academy of Pediatrics
– Guidance for parents dealing with the loss of a child, offering strategies for support and healing.
– Read more: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/Coping-with-Grief.aspx
– Details how grief impacts brain function and emotional regulation.
– Read more: Psychology platforms
. 19. “Rediscovering Joy After Loss” by Sophie Lee
– Personal experiences with grief and the journey toward finding joy again.
– Read more: Wellness blogs
. 20. “Living with Grief: A Conversation with Experts” by William H. Hargrove
– Insights from grief experts addressing common questions and fears about the grieving process.
– Read more: Mental health podcasts
– Grief Support Hotlines: Organizations like the National Center for Grieving Children and Families offer hotlines for those seeking immediate support.
– Online Courses: Websites like Coursera and Udemy often provide courses focused on grief management, emotional health, and mindfulness, taught by professionals in the field.
– Podcasts About Grief: There are numerous podcasts dedicated to discussing grief, such as ‘Griefcast’ by Cariad Lloyd and ‘The Grief & Rebirth Podcast’ which explore stories of loss and recovery.
🎧 Terrible, Thanks for Asking
Host: Nora McInerny
A podcast about grief, loss, and what it means to be human. It dives deep into the stories of people dealing with difficult experiences.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://noraborealis.com/terrible-thanks-for-asking”)
🎧 The Grief Cast
Host: Cariad Lloyd
Cariad speaks to comedians and celebrities about their personal experiences with grief.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.cariadlloyd.com/griefcast)
🎧 Good Grief
Host: Megan Devine
A podcast that explores the nature of grief and offers insights and conversations with experts.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.goodegrief.com/podcast)
🎧 How to Survive – The Grief Series
Host: Steve and Annette Economides
A series focusing specifically on the journey through grief and coping strategies.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.howtosurviveseries.com)
🎧 The Mindful Kind
Host: Rachael O’Meara
While not exclusively about grief, this podcast offers mindfulness practices that can help with healing and coping with loss.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.rachaelomeara.com/the-mindful-kind-podcast)
🎧 Grief Out Loud
Host: Jana DeCristofaro
A podcast that offers support around grief and loss, featuring conversations with people who have been through similar experiences.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.portlandchildrensmuseum.org/grief-out-loud-podcast)
🎧 Healing Through Grief
Host: Sue Morris & Rosie B. Parker
A podcast that provides resources, personal stories, and expert interviews focused on healing from grief and loss.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.healingthroughgrief.com/podcast)
🎧 The Loss Podcast
Host: Laura D. M. Castor
Focused on exploring the complexities of loss and providing tools for healing, this podcast features guest stories and insights.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://www.thelosspodcast.com)
🎧 What’s Your Grief?
Host: Eleanor Haley & Litsa Williams
The duo discusses a variety of topics related to grief, offering insight and advice for navigating the grieving process.
🔗 [Listen Here](https://whatsyourgrief.com/podcast/)
🎧 You, Me, & The Grief
Host: Caroline and Liza
This podcast explores grief from different perspectives, sharing experiences and coping strategies with humor and honesty.
📺 The School of Life
Creates content on various emotional topics, including grief and loss, and how to navigate those feelings.
🔗 [Visit Channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/schooloflifechannel)
📺 Seth’s Blog
Seth Godin shares wisdom about loss, healing, and marketing, often touching on a variety of personal development themes.
🔗 [Visit Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWf1x9botN96s4nQxkBDqkg)
📺 The Healing Power of Grief
Shares personal stories and advice about healing from grief and finding support.
🔗 [Visit Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6FLLbZavB4yUG5Zu7v4kA)
