Widowed AF: Real stories of love, grief and beyond - With Rosie Gill-Moss

In this episode, host Rosie Gill-Moss chats with Louise about her experience of losing her husband unexpectedly. Louise shares the tough realities of widowhood and how her husband's battle with alcoholism shaped their lives together. Her husband died from a heart attack related to severe alcoholic liver disease, a struggle that Louise faced for years as she tried to support him through his addiction. She talks about the signs of his drinking, the challenges of loving someone with an addiction, and the feelings of helplessness that often come with it. Louise also addresses the stigma surrounding alcoholism and how it can complicate relationships.A must listen for one of the most candid insights yet into loving someone in addiction.

In this episode of the Widowed AF podcast, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Shirley Pegram, who shares her journey through widowhood following the death of her husband, Adrian, due to liver disease. Shirley reflects on their 30-year relationship, the challenges they faced, and the impact of addiction on their lives. Shirley discusses the complexities of grief, the stigma surrounding addiction, and the importance of mental health awareness. She emphasises the need for empathy and understanding for those dealing with similar struggles. Throughout the conversation, Shirley highlights her personal growth and the steps she has taken towards healing, including travel and self-care practices. Despite the pain of loss, Shirley shares her journey towards healing, including her travels and newfound independence. She encourages listeners to embrace life and seek support when needed. If you have been affected by today's episode or have a story to share, please reach out to Rosie Gill-Moss through the podcast's contact information. Your experiences matter, and support is available. Join us for more conversations on grief, healing, and the journey of widowhood. Remember, you are not alone in this experience.

At just 24, Thea Claire found herself widowed and navigating the overwhelming world of grief while grappling with revelations she discovered about their relationship. In this episode of Widowed AF, host Rosie Gill-Moss chats with Thea, who shares her journey after the sudden death of her husband, T, from a brain tumour. Thea opens up about the emotional ups and downs of T's diagnosis, the challenges they faced together, and the unexpected twists that came to light during this tough time. She also shares her experiences with neurodiversity, including ADHD and anxiety, which shaped how she coped with everything happening around her. Her story is a raw and honest look at widowhood, highlighting the unique ways neurodivergence can influence grief and relationships. Thea emphasises the importance of community support and the healing power of sharing your story, reminding us all that while grief can feel isolating, we’re not alone on this journey. Join us for an engaging conversation that resonates with anyone who has faced loss, offering insights into rebuilding life after heartbreak and embracing the complexities of our emotional experiences. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode of Widowed AF, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Sophie Ransom from Suffolk. At 25 years old, Sophie's fiancé, Paul was killed in a motorcycle accident when she was 17 weeks pregnant with their daughter. Now 27, Sophie shares her experience of widowhood at a young age and the reality of navigating pregnancy, birth, and raising a child on her own. Sophie recounts meeting Paul at 19, marrying at 24, and becoming pregnant shortly after their wedding. She describes their last evening together sharing a Colin the Caterpillar cake before Paul's fatal collision with a lorry while riding to work the next morning. The conversation covers Sophie's experience of learning about his death, attending hospital appointments without him, and giving birth via emergency C-section without Paul by her side. The episode addresses Sophie's thoughts of not wanting to continue living without Paul and how her daughter Poppy gave her purpose. Sophie discusses practical aspects of her situation, including her approach to telling a child about a parent they never met, reading "I Have an Angel" nightly, and moving away from their shared home. She also shares her process of working through anger toward Paul, connecting with others in similar situations through WAY (Widowed and Young), and finding happiness again 18 months after his loss. Topics: Young widowhood, pregnancy after loss, parenting after loss, motorcycle accident, sudden death, raising children who never met their parent Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode of the Widowed AF podcast, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Mark Heazle, a widower who shares his experiences following the death of his wife, Sharon, from a rare form of cancer. Mark discusses the practical aspects of navigating life as a single parent while managing grief. He provides insights into the challenges of parenting after loss, including the dynamics of raising children in a blended family setting. Mark details the process of advocating for his wife’s health during her illness, highlighting the importance of understanding medical conditions and the healthcare system. He addresses the impact of cancer on family life and the necessity of mental health support for both himself and his children. The conversation also covers the significance of support networks, including family and friends, in coping with loss. Mark shares how these relationships have played a role in his life and the lives of his children. He discusses the balance between remembering a loved one and moving forward with life, including how to acknowledge significant dates such as anniversaries and birthdays. Listeners will gain practical insights into the realities of widowhood, parenting, and the formation of blended families. This episode serves as a resource for those who are widowed, as well as for individuals who support someone experiencing loss. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode of "Widowed AF," host Rosie Gill-Moss engages in a conversation with Rachel Hart, who shares her personal experience of losing her husband to suicide while she was pregnant. Rachel discusses the profound impact of this loss on her life and the complexities of navigating grief during such a pivotal time. The episode addresses the stigma surrounding suicide, highlighting how it affects the grieving process and the perceptions of those left behind. Rachel emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in understanding the signs that may precede such tragedies. Listeners will hear about the challenges of parenting after the death of a partner, including how to communicate the situation to children in an age-appropriate manner. Rachel reflects on her own experiences and the support she received from family and friends, illustrating the critical role of support networks in coping with grief. The conversation also touches on the process of finding love again after loss. Rachel shares her thoughts on the complexities of entering a new relationship while still navigating the emotions tied to her late husband. Throughout the episode, Rachel provides insights into the realities of widowhood, offering a candid perspective on the ongoing process of healing and the adjustments required in daily life. This episode serves as a resource for those in the widow and widower community, providing factual information and relatable experiences. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode, Rosie welcomes Andrew Medlycot to the studio for an open and insightful conversation about how life can change in an instant. Andrew shares his personal journey, from facing a life-altering cancer diagnosis to navigating the ripple effects it has had on every aspect of his world. Through this conversation, Andrew reflects on the unexpected ways that cancer reshaped his priorities, relationships, and outlook. He discusses the challenges of accessing healthcare when time is of the essence, the importance of a supportive family, and the emotional and practical adjustments required to adapt to a new reality. Andrew also opens up about living with undiagnosed ADHD, how it influenced his life before he even knew about it, and the transformative impact of finally receiving a diagnosis and treatment. He looks back on his past with a new perspective, identifying moments and patterns that suddenly make more sense. Key topics discussed in this episode include: •Adjusting to sudden, life-altering circumstances. •The struggles of accessing healthcare when waiting isn’t an option. •The value of family support during difficult times. •Living with undiagnosed ADHD and the transformation that comes with diagnosis. •Reflecting on the past and how new insights change our understanding of it. Whether you’re navigating a major change yourself, supporting someone close to you, or simply curious about how others adapt when life throws the unexpected, this episode offers practical reflections, candid insights, and a grounded perspective. Tune in to hear Andrew’s story and discover a conversation that’s as thought-provoking as it is relatable. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode of Widowed AF, Rosie and Jonathan Gill-Moss welcome you back for more insight from the frontline of widowhood. The couple discuss the challenges of managing family life, high expectations and grief during the festive season. They share their recent Christmas trip to Jamaica, which included unexpected complications, and a trip to hospital. Hear how their grief has changed over time, in ways they didn’t expect, and how important the telling and sharing of stories is for restoring hope. What to Expect in This Episode: Resources Mentioned: •WAY – Widowed and Young •The Ollie Foundation Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Feeling festive? In this episode, Jonathan and I are sitting down for a Christmas catch-up to wrap up two incredible years of Widowed AF. We’re taking a moment to reflect on what the podcast has meant to us, the changes we made this year, and—most importantly—the impact your messages and feedback have had. Honestly, we couldn’t do this without you. We’re chatting about life as a blended family (it’s messy, but we wouldn’t have it any other way), the emotional challenges of recording episodes, and how we navigate grief during the holidays. It’s not always easy, is it? But you’re not alone in it—we’re right here with you. We’ve also got some exciting plans brewing for next year, and we’d love to hear from you. What do you want to hear more of? What’s helped you most? Drop us a message and let us know. In the meantime, grab a mince pie, pop on your cosiest socks, and join us for this warm (and slightly rambling) end-of-year chat. Chapters [00:00] Festive Welcome [07:15] Blended Family Life [12:45] Grief During the Holidays [22:30] Looking Ahead to 2025 [28:15] Closing Thoughts and Festive Farewell Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Episode Overview Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of murder, trauma, and grief that may be triggering for some listeners. In this episode of Widowed AF, Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Katrina Smith about the traumatic night her husband was murdered in their home. Katrina shares her harrowing experience of losing her husband, Josh, during a home invasion, exploring profound grief, loss, and trauma. The discussion not only highlights the emotional turmoil that accompanies such a devastating event but also addresses the failures of law enforcement in responding to domestic violence situations. Through her story, Katrina emphasises the critical importance of victim advocacy, providing listeners with valuable insights into the complexities of navigating life after such a tragedy. Episode Timeline Key Topics About Katrina Katrina Smith is an advocate for victims' rights and a survivor of violent crime. She shares her story to raise awareness and support for others who have experienced similar tragedies. Contact Information Widowed AF@widowedafpodcastKatrina SmithWebsiteWidowed AF PodcastSupport Organisations Crime Survivors for Safety and Justicehttps://cssj.org/Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

8B6C4vedzt7k9SjguWRK In this special episode, Rosie Gill-Moss shares her reaction to the historic news that the UK Parliament has voted in favour of legalising assisted dying. Recorded just hours after hearing the announcement, Rosie reflects on the significance of this decision, drawing from personal stories shared on Widowed AF and the emotional conversations that shaped the podcast’s early episodes. As the host of Widowed AF, Rosie has spoken with over 100 individuals about some of the darkest times of their lives, often compounded by the suffering they have witnessed. She questions, “Why are we denied dignity and autonomy at the end of our lives, when we value them above almost all else?” While end-of-life care is often excellent, it does not alleviate all suffering. Rosie explores the deeply personal choice of assisted dying, the fear and dignity involved, and the relief this new law may provide to those facing terminal diagnoses. “None of us can predict how we might feel when facing a terminal diagnosis,” Rosie states. “I personally want this option to be available. I can’t say if I would use it, but I know I want the choice.” Tune in for a deeply personal and thought-provoking commentary on this historic moment of compassion, choice, and dignity. Key Topics: The emotional impact of the vote Reflections on stories shared in Widowed AF episodes “Dignity” and “Thought-Provoking AF” Why dignity and autonomy matter at the end of life Related Episodes: Episode 11: Dignity - Anonymous Guest Episode 12: Thought-Provoking AF Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Episode Overview In this episode of the "What About The Children" series, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Otis Middleton, who shares his experience of losing his father to cancer at the age of seven. Otis discusses the impact of his father's death on his life, his feelings surrounding the loss, and the importance of open conversations about grief. Key Discussion Points Childhood Memories: Otis reflects on his close relationship with his father and shares memories of visiting him in the hospital, highlighting the innocence of childhood during such a difficult time. The Day of Loss: He recounts being taken out of class to be informed of his father's death, describing his immediate emotional response and the confusion that followed. Support Systems: The episode discusses the support he received from teachers and friends at school, including how his classmates were informed and the kindness they showed him. Coping Mechanisms: Otis shares how he coped with his grief, including moments of hiding his emotions and the comfort he found in drawing and spending time with family. Open Dialogue: The importance of discussing feelings and memories of his father is emphasised, as Otis expresses that he is not afraid to talk about his dad and values the memories they share. Related Episodes in the Series Jess Yeldon: Discusses her experience of losing her father at a young age and the long-term effects of grief. Stephanie Dixon: Shares her story of losing her father to suicide and the impact it had on her childhood and family dynamics. Roisin Aldridge: Talks about her experience of losing her father just before her 10th birthday and the importance of support from peers and family. Otis's story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health and grief openly. By sharing his experiences, he hopes to encourage others to have conversations about loss and seek support when needed. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Episode Overview In this episode of the "What About The Children" series, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Stephanie Dixon, who shares her experience of losing her father to suicide at the age of 14. Stephanie discusses the complexities of her childhood, the impact of her father's death, and the importance of open conversations about mental health and grief. Key Discussion Points Childhood Memorieshe Day of LossSupport SystemsCoping MechanismsOpen Dialogue Related Episodes in the Series Jess YeldonStephanie's story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health and grief openly. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to encourage others to have conversations about loss and seek support when needed. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Episode Overview In this episode of the "What About The Children" series, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Roisin Aldridge, who shares her experience of losing her father just two days before her 10th birthday. Roisin discusses the impact of her father's death on her life, her relationship with her family, and the importance of open conversations about grief. Key Discussion Points Childhood MemoriesThe Day of LossSupport SystemsCoping MechanismsOpen Dialogue Related Episodes in the Series Roisin's story serves as a reminder of the importance of open communication about grief and the need for support systems for children who experience loss. Her experiences highlight that while the pain of losing a parent is profound, it is possible to navigate life and find joy again. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Episode Overview In this episode of the "What About The Children" series, host Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Jess Yeldon, who shares her experience of losing her father to cancer at the age of 11. Jess discusses the impact of her father's death on her life, her relationships, and the importance of open conversations about grief and mental health. Key Discussion Points Childhood Memories:The Day of Loss:Support Systems:Coping Mechanisms:Open Dialogue: Related Episodes in the Series Stephanie Dixon:Roisin Aldridge:Ottis Middleton:Jess's story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health and grief openly. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to encourage others to have conversations about loss and seek support when needed. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

Join Rosie as shares her experience of widowhood and its impact on children. In this series Rosie addresses the critical question: What about the children? This series features four guests who have lost a parent at a young age, each sharing their unique perspectives on coping with loss and the support systems that helped them. Featured Guests: S2 - EP20 - Jess Yeldon: Jess lost her father at age 11 and discusses the importance of communication about grief and how it shaped her life. S2 - EP18 - Stephanie Dixon: Stephanie shares her experience of losing her father to suicide at 14, highlighting the stigma surrounding mental health and the need for open conversations. S2 - EP19 - Roisin Aldridge: At 10, Roisin speaks of the day her father passed away and how her family has navigated their grief together. S2 - EP21 -Ottis Middleton: Also 14, Ottis reflects on losing his father to cancer and the ways he has learned to cope with the loss over the years. Key Themes: - The significance of discussing grief and loss with children. - Strategies for supporting children through their grief. - The long-term effects of losing a parent and how children can adapt and thrive. Join Rosie as she explores these important topics, offering insights and resources for parents and caregivers navigating the challenges of grief with their children. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode of Widowed AF, Rosie Gill-Moss sits down with Kassandra McCleary, an American living in Paris who unexpectedly lost her husband to a lung cancer at just 37. Their love story began when Kassandra moved to France, where they built a life together, filled with travel, laughter, and a vibrant community of friends. But when her husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer, their world changed overnight, further complicated by the isolation of the pandemic. Kassandra opens up about the intense experience of caring for both a newborn and a terminally ill partner, navigating each day with a strength she never knew she had. From finding unexpected support in friends and neighbours to preserving her husband’s memory for their daughter, Kassandra’s story is one of resilience, love, and the quiet power of community. Rosie and Kassandra’s conversation brings to light not only the heartbreak but also the ways we find hope and connection during life’s most challenging times. If you’re navigating grief, supporting a loved one, or looking for stories of strength and survival, Kassandra’s journey will resonate with you. Her reflections on balancing motherhood, loss, and the importance of keeping memories alive for her daughter offer powerful insight and inspiration. Join us for this moving episode of Widowed AF, and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations about love, loss, and life’s unexpected twists. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode of Widowed-AF, host Rosie Gill-Moss is joined by Jonathan Gill-Moss to discuss various life updates and reflections. Rosie shares her experiences hosting a new podcast for Options Autism in a professional studio, highlighting her journey toward increased independence and confidence. They explore the complexities of managing their children’s disjointed half-term schedules, Rosie’s upcoming trip to Michigan, and the importance of taking time for personal care. The couple also talk openly about the challenges of their blended family, the necessity of honest communication, and the pressures and realities of maintaining a happy marriage. Additionally, John reflects on his struggles with grief and therapy after losing his previous spouse. The episode wraps up with updates on past podcast guests and Rosie’s response to a recent Panorama documentary critical of menopause treatments, advocating for the benefits of personalized care. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In this episode, Rosie sits down with Sari Overby, a mother from Maryland with a story that balances the joys and heartbreaks of life after a devastating diagnosis. Sari met her husband Ben as a teenager, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and shared dreams. But when Ben was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer, they faced a new reality—one where time was limited but their commitment to each other and their family remained strong. Sari and Ben didn’t let the diagnosis define them. They bought a house, started a family through IVF, and found ways to continue living life on their own terms. Whether it was savoring simple pleasures like family movie nights or tackling tough moments together, they made the most of their time, all while managing the ups and downs of Ben’s illness. The episode is a reflection on the choices we make in the face of uncertainty. How do you keep living when you know what’s coming? Sari shares what it was like to balance hope and acceptance, especially as a mother of two young children. She talks about helping her daughter understand loss and how, even in Ben’s final days, there was space for connection and love. This conversation is about more than loss—it’s about the choices we make to keep living, loving, and finding moments of joy, even when things get hard. It’s an honest, relatable discussion on life’s most difficult moments and the strength it takes to navigate them. Tune in for a story about family, resilience, and finding meaning in the everyday, even when faced with loss. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube

In the latest episode of Widowed AF, join Rosie Gill-Moss as she sits down with Jackie Rees from Glasgow, who shares her unvarnished journey through grief, love, and enduring connections. Jackie recounts a story that begins with an unexpected heart condition that leads her into an emotional labyrinth. We follow her and her husband David, whose life was tragically cut short by a congenital heart defect. Jackie talks candidly about their 23 years together—highlighting their shared passion for rock music, their travels to New York, and the life they beautifully built without children by choice, but full of love nonetheless. Rosie and Jackie discuss intimate moments, including their chance meeting through a Kerang magazine message board and David's touching, albeit unconventional, marriage proposal. But the heart of the episode revolves around the series of medical challenges that David faced, which escalated rapidly, leaving Jackie grappling with their sudden and unpredictable nature. In navigating her life post-David, Jackie shares the small gestures of human kindness that supported her—care packages from friends, a close-knit support group, and the invaluable bond with David’s family. Through it all, Jackie paints a balanced picture of grief interwoven with moments of hope, friendship, and the conscious decision to keep living a full life. Listen to Jackie's moving yet triumphant story, reflecting on the realities of widowhood and the unexpected paths it forces one to tread. Her tale is one of resilience and courage, coupled with touching anecdotes that bring a smile amidst tears. Tune in to understand how she navigated the turbulent waters of loss and found new shores to anchor her life upon. Join us, subscribe, and be a part of the community that not only listens but also understands and supports. Connect with Us: @widowedAFwidowedAF.comhttps://www.widowedaf.comYouTube