It took me over 20 years to tell my story. I began writing in 1997, just two years after losing my first husband. I was only 30, hoping that sharing my experience would bring some peace. But as much as I wanted to tell it then, I needed another 20 years—and the painful loss of my second husband—to gain the perspective to share it truthfully.

Life After Losses began as a way to help others heal and rediscover happiness. I released my memoir on the 7th anniversary of my second husband’s passing, sharing my journey through unimaginable grief and the resilience I found along the way. From there, I developed Moving Past Grief, a collection of practical strategies to cope with loss. But with Grief Recovery for Adults, I’ve shifted the focus to you. Using the PURPOSE framework, this book is a guide to finding your path, reclaiming happiness, and discovering new purpose after loss.

My name is James LaVeck. I’ve learned that happiness is possible, and I’m here to help you find it.