In this raw episode of “Redeeming Her,” hosts Katie Shive and Deborah Larson welcome Emily Okamoto, a photographer, artist and mother of four who shares her deeply personal story of loss and healing. Emily opens up about her life as a preacher’s kid, her relationship with her brother, Anthony Hawkins, who struggled with alcoholism and the devastating impact of his suicide. In this deeply moving episode, we discuss Christian grief and healing after suicide.
Emily’s story is not only one of unimaginable grief but also of profound encounters with the Holy Spirit. If you have ever experienced the pain of losing a loved one or are walking through a season of sorrow, this episode offers real encouragement and practical wisdom for your faith-based grief journey.
Walking Through the Tragedy of Losing a Loved One to Suicide
Emily’s journey took a heartbreaking turn when her beloved brother, Anthony, who struggled for years with addiction and depression, tragically ended his life. In this interview, Emily speaks candidly about the helplessness, trauma, and complicated grief that suicide loss brings. She offers raw and honest reflections on the questions, guilt, and “why” that so many survivors of suicide loss carry.
Finding the Comfort of the Holy Spirit
Despite the unbearable pain, Emily shares how a powerful, tangible encounter with the Holy Spirit prepared her to walk through her darkest valley. She describes the peace that surrounded her even in the moment of loss, reminding all who are grieving that they are not alone. The Holy Spirit’s comfort is real and life-sustaining, even when the answers never come.
How to Grieve in a Healthy, Faith-Based Way
Emily powerfully describes how she made the decision not to run from her pain but to lean into it with faith and vulnerability. By embracing grief instead of stuffing it down, she found that allowing herself to fully feel her sorrow actually led to quicker healing. She shares how sitting in the pain and letting the emotions flow—even for short, controlled moments—helped her regain peace and clarity.
The Hope of Redemption and Life After Loss
Emily reminds us that even when grief feels unbearable, healing is possible. Through her testimony, she encourages anyone facing trauma or deep sorrow to seek safe community, allow others to pray over them, and remain open to the Holy Spirit’s healing power. She explains that grief does not have to define you; you can walk through pain while still living with joy, purpose, and hope in Jesus.
Why Suicide Loss Support Is Critical in Christian Communities
This episode addresses the stigma and silence around suicide loss in Christian spaces. Emily bravely opens the conversation and shares why breaking shame and finding connection with others who have walked a similar path has been so critical to her healing.
Listen to the Full Episode and Find Encouragement
If you or someone you love is walking through the grief of suicide loss, addiction, or any traumatic loss, we invite you to listen to this powerful episode of Redeeming Her Podcast. Our prayer is that you find encouragement, connection, and the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ.
Subscribe now to the Redeeming Her Podcast for more stories of Christian women overcoming life’s deepest trials with faith, healing, and Holy Spirit guidance. This episode is part one of two interviews with Emily. Make sure to listen to the second episode for the full interview.
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