Hi I’m Daphne. I was raised in a small ranching town in eastern Oregon, and graduated from Western Oregon University in law enforcement. I went on to a lengthy career as an adult parole officer. Following a devastating car accident in 2008, which resulted in the tragic death of my five year old daughter, I found a new purpose and passion in life.
In 2011, I co-founded a non-profit in memory of my daughter, Lydia’s Love, which provides birthday celebrations to children in need. I blog and write about finding hope amidst grief and loss. My new book, Barely Breathing: 10 Secrets to Surviving the Loss of a Child is to be released July 16, 2019. I am also the co-author of Grief Diaries—Will We Survive book—a collection of stories from parents on marriage after the death of a child.
I am a member of the Oregon Christian Writers Association and also served for five years on the steering committee of The Compassionate Friends in Salem, Oregon. I am a contributing writer on The Mighty and Havingtime and I have contributed to many books and websites, sharing my experiences on life, loss and finding hope. I am passionate about my faith and I believe in the healing power of sharing life experiences with others.
In my spare time I volunteer with Ellie’s Way, a non-profit organization providing hope and outreach for the bereaved and While We’re Waiting, faith based retreats for bereaved parents. Currently, I reside in Oregon, with my husband and four other children, along with my farm animals—sheep, pigs, chickens and dogs.
It’s beautiful. Savor the sweet memories this brings to your heart.
Do you know why you have such big arms Mom? It’s so you can give really big hugs! Thanks for sharing this special artwork with us 🙂