Avril Nagel

Avril Nagel is a writer, editor and author living in Victoria, British Columbia with her husband and two young children. She is the co-author of When Your Child Dies; Tools for Mending a Parents' Broken Hearts. Written in partnership with Randie Clark, M.A.MHC, CCC, When Your Child Dies is a comprehensive resource that helps bereaved parents develop healthy coping mechanisms, face challenges associated with their loss, and move forward through their grieving process. Avril and her husband lost their son Alden when his heart stopped suddenly during birth. In addition to writing in the field of bereavement, she works as an Editor and contributing writer with the University of Victoria Family Centre. The publication is geared towards families and articles range in topic from parenting, health and wellness and community events. She has also contributed articles to online parenting websites and national magazines. Her publications are versatile and range in topic, including emergency management, bereavement, pregnancy loss, international development, health and wellness and parenting. She graduated from McGill University, Montreal, Canada.

Articles:

How Someone in Grief can Survive the Holidays

As the holidays loom, instead of the common anticipation and excitement, individuals who are grieving often feel a sense of dread. Common sentiments are, “How will I be able to cope with the memories and the heartbreak?” or “There is so much pressure to be cheerful and festive, but I’m not in the mood. I feel like I need to fake it.” The idea of facing the holidays without someone you love is painful and magnifies the sense of loss. Holidays are filled with traditions that may not seem the same anymore. It is helpful to plan ahead and create […]

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How to Support Family and Friends Facing Child Loss

Child death is one of those awful things that no one likes to think or talk about, but the sad truth is that many parents face it every day. When a child dies, there is often a well of support from family, friends and the broader community in light of the tragedy. People band together to assist the bereaved family, but beyond delivered meals and help around the house, family and friends are often unsure of how to continue supporting the bereaved parents and surviving children. As a bereaved parent myself, I observed as family members and friends struggled to […]

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