Grief is everyone’s experience

Most people don’t know what is helpful to say or do to support a grieving friend. It can feel awkward and uncomfortable.

I get it. I’ve been there. As a grief coach, I want to help.

Download My Free Grief Guide

Express Empathy

Grow Trust

Support Relationships

“No one should have to grieve alone.
Everyone needs a grief companion (Hope Hero) in their life.
Everyone deserves access to hope-filled grief resources”

Learn to confidently support your grieving friend

1

Hope Heroes Course

View 5 easy-to-digest videos and discover helpful ways to be a caring grief companion.

Get the Course

2

Buy the Book

The Little Black Funeral Dress

Discover ideas to ease the burden of your loss and equip you to help your grieving friends.

Buy The Book

3

Get on the list!

Receive monthly resources and grief tips. Gain confidence to care for your grieving friend.

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What do others have to say

Testimonials

I’m always amazed how Shirley’s words touch my heart and bring further healing that I didn’t even know I needed.
MargieWidow, Retired Teacher
I highly recommend the Hope Heroes course because at one time or another, we will need to support someone who is grieving. The course is full of helpful information that gives you tools and confidence.
Gayle BrownExecutive Vice President, The 700 Club Canada
I highly recommend the Hope Heroes course because at one time or another, we will need to support someone who is grieving. The course is full of helpful information that gives you tools and confidence.
Gayle BrownExecutive Vice President, The 700 Club Canada
I loved the course! Tons of great ideas, things to ponder and helpful information. Anyone that takes the course will feel it’s worth it.
Kim NordmarkBereaved parent, Grief Support group facilitator
Shirley has become an expert on something no one wants to learn: grief. Shirley is an excellent communicator because she exudes authenticity.
DonnaAuthor, Speaker, Radio Host
Shirley is brave. Her story is powerful, and her ability to inspire hope in others is palpable. Shirley is able to connect with students on a level they can understand, and help them truly become "Hope Heroes".
DavidElementary School Teacher
Shirley’s book, “The Little Black Funeral Dress” and her seminar on the subject is an absolute must read and attend for all.
KevinLife and Health Advisor
We all need to lean into the discomfort and educate ourselves about grief. The mental health of someone close to you might depend on it. Shirley makes the viewer feel relaxed as she unpacks the tough topic of grief.
Rev. Vahen KingAuthor, International Speaker, Founder of GoingFarther.org
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The Little Black Funeral Dress

It’s not if, but when. Those who love will also grieve. To our detriment, society would rather sanitize or skip over the topic of grief.

Twelve days after her son’s wedding, Shirley Thiessen was thrown into the unimaginable task of planning his funeral. Grief threatened to extinguish her purpose for living. Gradually, hope and resiliency emerged as Shirley learned to recycle the pain of loss for good purposes.

While everyone’s grief journey is unique, there are tips to be shared and missteps to avoid.

  • “This is a book destined for worn and dog-eared pages as I read it over and over.”  ~Janine
  • “Reading this book was the most amazing 74 minutes. It spoke right to my heart.”  ~Ron
  • “It’s an easy read and so compassionately written.”  ~Judy

Order Your SIGNED Copy Today!

Buy The Book

Now available as an audible book! Do you prefer to listen to a book rather than read it? For you, I’ve narrated my story. Click to go to Audible!

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PAY IT FORWARD

No one should have to grieve alone. Your generous donation will provide resources that will grow ordinary people into extraordinary grief companions willing to share empathy and compassion effectively with the bereaved.

PAY IT FORWARD

Your gift is tax-receipted by the Great Commission Foundation.