From the chief medical correspondent of ABC News, an eloquent,
heartbreaking, yet hopeful memoir of surviving the suicide of a loved
one, examining this dangerous epidemic and offering first-hand knowledge
and advice to help family and friends find peace.
Jennifer Ashton, M.D., has witnessed firsthand the impact of a loved
one's suicide. When her ex-husband killed himself soon after their
divorce, her world--and that of her children--was shattered. Though she
held a very public position with one of the world's largest media
companies, she was hesitant to speak about the personal trauma that she
and her family experienced following his death. A woman who addresses
the public regularly on intimate health topics, she was uncertain of
revealing her devastating loss--the most painful thing she'd ever
experienced. But with the high-profile suicides of Kate Spade and
Anthony Bourdain, Dr. Ashton recognized the importance of talking about
her experience and the power of giving voice to her grief. She shared
her story with her Good Morning America family on air--an honest,
heartbreaking revelation that provided comfort and solace to others,
like her and her family, who have been left behind.
In Life After Suicide, she opens up completely for the first time,
hoping that her experience and words can inspire those faced with the
unthinkable to persevere. Part memoir and part comforting guide that
incorporates the latest insights from researchers and health
professionals, Life After Suicide is both a call to arms against this
dangerous, devastating epidemic, and an affecting story of personal
grief and loss. In addition, Dr. Ashton includes stories from others who
have survived the death of a loved one by their own hand, showing how
they survived the unthinkable and demonstrating the vital roles that
conversation and community play in recovering from the suicide of a
loved one. The end result is a raw and revealing exploration of a
subject that's been taboo for far too long, providing support,
information, and comfort for those attempting to make sense of their
loss and find a way to heal.
