On the eighth anniversary of her son’s death, Janet Ropp says she has found peace and forgiveness, both for herself and others.
On Oct. 13, 2018, Janet came home to find four police cars in her driveway. Her 19-year-old son, James, had died of an accidental Xanax overdose, changing her life in an instant.
Since losing James, Janet has written a book, Dear James, and become a grief recovery specialist. She speaks openly about the stigma surrounding overdose loss, the ways she still feels connected to her son and what it means to keep living while carrying the weight of grief.
In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Janet reflects on what she has learned over the past eight years, how she has found peace and forgiveness, and what advice she has for others navigating the loss of someone they love.
Learn more about Janet and purchase her book here.
Related episodes:
- Coping with a Xanax overdose death
- Coping With Grief and Choosing Life After Tragedy
- Gentle Wisdom for Grieving Hearts This Holiday Season
MEET THE GUEST
Janet Ropp
Janet Ropp is the author of Dear James, a deeply personal memoir about the loss of her 19-year-old son, James, to an accidental overdose and her journey through grief, healing, and rediscovering life after unimaginable loss. With a background in psychology and certifications in grief recovery and holistic and spiritual life coaching, Janet brings both personal experience and professional insight to conversations about grief. Through writing and speaking, she shares her story with honesty and hope, helping others understand that while grief forever changes us, it is possible to carry our loved ones with us while learning to live fully again.
