In this eye-opening episode of Enduring Grief, host Sarah Peterson sits down with Lesley Sacks, Executive Director of Hopewell House, to explore the unique realities of anticipatory grief- the grief we carry before a loss fully arrives. Drawing on years of experience in hospice care, Lesley offers insights into supporting families and individuals facing the slow goodbye. The conversation uncovers the complexities of family dynamics, caregiver burnout, and the transformative rituals that help loved ones navigate the path toward end-of-life acceptance.

Whether you’re a caregiver, support professional, or someone preparing for loss, you’ll find practical wisdom on shifting hope, embracing honest conversations, and making each moment meaningful. Don’t miss this compassionate look at what it really means to "walk through grief together"—and why acknowledging the hard truths about dying can open the door to deeper connection and healing.

Lesley Sacks, LCSW, is the Executive Director of Hopewell House, a nonprofit hospice residence in Portland, Oregon. Lesley brings extensive experience in hospice care and social services. A Portland native, Lesley holds a Master of Social Work from Portland State University and a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Willamette University.

Lesley was drawn to Hopewell House for its community-centered mission and commitment to serving individuals with limited access to end-of-life care. Under her leadership, the organization has continued to provide compassionate, inclusive, and dignified care to hospice residents.

Sarah Peterson is a licensed clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience in medical social work, hospice care and in private practice. As the founder of Clear Mourning, a nonprofit organization dedicated to shifting the culture of grief through innovation, support, and awareness, Sarah brings a deep understanding of grief and loss to her work. Her personal experiences, including the tragic loss of her two-year-old daughter and father, have profoundly shaped her mission to provide compassionate support to others navigating grief.

Sarah holds a Master of Social Work from Portland State University and has extensive experience in both private practice and nonprofit leadership. She also serves as an adjunct instructor at Portland State, runs her own private practice, and provides supervision for licensure candidates.

Connect with Sarah:

✅ Instagram:

instagram.com/clearmourning

✅ Official Website:

clearmourning.org

Follow us on Instagram: @ClearMourning

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