Harriet Hodgson

Harriet Hodgson has been a freelancer for 43 years, is the author of thousands of articles, and 42 books, including 10 grief resources. She is Assistant Editor of the Open to Hope website, a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists, Alliance of Independent Authors, Minnesota Coalition for Grief Education and Support, and Grief Coalition of Southeastern Minnesota. She is well acquainted with grief. In 2007 four family members died—her daughter (mother of her twin grandchildren), father-in-law, brother (and only sibling) and the twins’ father. Multiple losses shifted the focus of Hodgson’s work from general health to grief resolution and healing. She has appeared on more than 185 radio talk shows, including CBS Radio, and dozens of television stations, including CNN. In addition to writing for Open to Hope, Hodgson is a contributing writer for The Grief Toolbox website and The Caregiver Space website. A popular speaker, she has given presentations at The Compassionate Friends national conference, Bereaved Parents of the USA national conference, and Zoom grief conferences. Her work is cited in Who’s Who of American Women, World Who’s Who of Women, Contemporary Authors, and other directories. For more information about this busy grandmother, great grandmother, author, and speaker please visit www.harriethodgson.com.

Articles:

Boston Deaths and Injuries Disrespect the Miracle of Life

When I first heard about the explosions in Boston I took a deep breath. Two explosions would probably cause some deaths. Now I know an eight year old boy was […]

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Walking Your Way Out of Grief

You’re grieving now, feeling lost, alone, helpless, and depressed. I understand some of your feelings. Six years ago, my elder daughter and father-in-law died the same weekend. My husband and […]

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Your Grieving Style: Is it Helping or Hurting You?

Until I lost four family members in 2007, I never thought about grieving styles. Then my daughter, father-in-law, brother, and my grandchildren’s father died. I was paralyzed with loss and […]

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Anniversary Reactions and a Strange Week

February 23rd was the sixth anniversary of my daughter’s death.  A week before this day came, my mind was filled with memories of my daughter.  I remembered the sugar-free apple […]

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The Grief Process: Dealing with Painful Memories

February 23rd is the sixth anniversary of my daughter’s death. I’m not looking forward to it. Just thinking about the day dredges up painful memories and images. At the time, […]

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Making Lemonade: Building on Life’s Challenges

Almost everyone has heard the saying, “When life sends you lemons, make lemonade.” In 2007, I received a bushel-full of lemons: the death of my daughter, death of my father-in-law, […]

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Silence, a Source of Comfort for the Bereaved

Speaking to community groups is something I really enjoy.  My latest talk is called “What Can You Say to Someone Who is Grieving?” and it’s been well-received.  I was about […]

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Writing to a Friend in Hospice

Because I was out of town for several weekends, I missed several Sunday church services. When I returned to church, I saw a friend of mine. She had lost so […]

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Your Light in the Darkness of Winter and Grief

During the darkest time of the year many string lights on Christmas trees, light menorah candles, and decorate outdoor trees with lights. But if you’re grieving, you may not pay […]

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After Sandy Hook: Talking to Young Children about Grief

The parents of Sandy Hook school children are reeling in shock, yet they must explain death to young children. Talking with kindergarten, first and second graders is a real challenge […]

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