by Kerrie Atherton | Aug 11, 2025 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
Tes Cruz’s world was shattered when she lost her husband—a devastating loss that brought grief, isolation, and overwhelming pain. In the depths of her struggle, she faced the crushing weight of mental health challenges that many experience but few speak about openly. Yet from this heartbreak, Tes discovered her mission: to become a voice and an advocate for mental health.
In this deeply moving episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Tes shares her personal journey of grief and the process of rebuilding life after loss. She opens up about the stigma around mental health, especially in the wake of tragedy, and why she chose to transform her suffering into service.
Tes now dedicates her life to helping others who are navigating mental health struggles. By speaking publicly and advocating for change, she shines a light on the importance of awareness, compassion, and accessible support. Her courage not only honors her late husband but also inspires countless others to seek help and know they are not alone.
Her story demonstrates the power of turning pain into purpose. Tes Cruz reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope can be reborn—not by ignoring grief, but by allowing it to fuel a mission of healing.
This episode is a tribute to resilience and the human capacity to rise from loss with renewed determination to help others find the light.
by Kerrie Atherton | Oct 14, 2024 | Family, lived experience, Podcasts
Losing a father is a profound experience that leaves lasting ripples of grief and trauma. In this heartfelt episode, we hear the raw and honest reflections of someone navigating life after the loss of their dad. The conversation is deeply personal yet universally relatable—reminding us that grief, though unique to each person, connects us all in its depth.
The episode explores the painful reality of losing a loved one, especially a parent who shaped one’s earliest sense of safety and belonging. It shines a light on the trauma that lingers after such a loss and the courage it takes to carry forward. Listeners will resonate with the difficult emotions of sadness, anger, and longing, while also finding inspiration in the resilience and love that remain.
Importantly, this discussion emphasizes that healing is not about “getting over” loss but about finding ways to live with it. By sharing lived experiences openly, the guest offers comfort to others who may feel isolated in their grief. The episode stands as a reminder that vulnerability fosters connection and that speaking our truth helps us move toward hope and meaning.
This is a story of pain, remembrance, and the quiet strength of continuing on when the heart feels broken. For anyone coping with loss, it provides a space of recognition and gentle encouragement.
by Kerrie Atherton | Sep 29, 2024 | Family, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
In this emotional episode of Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, musician, writer, and advocate Janet Gardiner courageously shares her story of unimaginable loss. Three years ago, Janet’s daughter Sarah was found dead under suspicious circumstances. Although her death was officially ruled as suicide, Janet believes otherwise and continues to pursue justice for Sarah.
Through her grief, Janet founded I Matter, an initiative supporting women facing crisis situations such as domestic violence, addiction, and homelessness. Music has become both her healing force and her advocacy tool, allowing her to transform sorrow into songs that inspire others. She opens up about the last days of Sarah’s life, their shared struggles with addiction, and Sarah’s battles with homelessness and violence.
Janet emphasizes that while grief may never fully subside, it can be transformed into resilience and purpose. By channeling her pain into action, she ensures Sarah’s legacy continues to impact lives. Listeners will be touched by her honesty, strength, and unwavering determination to help others, proving that tragedy can spark powerful change.
Her story serves as a beacon for anyone experiencing grief, reminding us that love, music, and advocacy can bridge the gap between loss and hope.
by Kerrie Atherton | Sep 16, 2024 | Empower, Focus, Podcasts
In Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, adventurer Michelle Lee shares her extraordinary journey as the first Australian woman to solo-row the Atlantic Ocean. With no prior rowing experience, she dedicated two years to intense preparation—fueled by a desire to break free from a life of routine. On the day her father passed away, she set out on this monumental voyage, confronting not only the vastness of the ocean but also the depths of her grief.
Throughout the pursuit, Michelle reflects on how fear can catalyze growth rather than hold us back. She recounts moments of doubt, aches, and uncertainty—but also of connection: the comforting embrace of nature and encouragement from her community. Her story is a powerful reminder that overcoming immense challenges is possible when resilience meets gratitude, and when we refuse to live with regret.
by Kerrie Atherton | Sep 9, 2024 | Empower, Focus, Podcasts
In this compelling episode of Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Shaun Thomson, world champion surfer turned author, speaker, and advocate, opens up about transforming profound personal loss into a courageous call to live with purpose. After losing his son Matthew in 2006, Shaun turned toward meaningful pursuits and community service, drawing strength from his mother’s faith and inspired by a student’s powerful desire to “always be myself.” He reflects on his storied surfing career, entrepreneurial ventures, and tireless support for mental health and personal growth. Central to his journey is the power of words: writing one’s own “I Will” code—personal, written commitments—becomes a lifeline for hope, resilience, and positive change. Shaun’s story is a vivid reminder that even in grief, we can craft our path forward, anchored by intention and heartfelt purpose.
