19. John Fowler | The Parts of Grief We Don’t Talk About

In this deeply moving episode, John Fowler shares the raw, unfiltered journey of loving and losing his wife Nickie to cancer—from diagnosis and years of caregiving to hospice, grief, and the long road toward healing. Through stories of helplessness, community, anger, gratitude, and letting go of the life he thought he’d have, the conversation offers an honest look at grief as both devastating and transformative, reminding listeners that healing often begins when we allow ourselves to feel everything and slowly open to a new chapter.

“You have to let go of what you thought your life was going to be and be open to all the possibilities that are still out there for you.” - John Fowler

Key Points:

• Grief is not just losing a person—it’s also losing the life and future you imagined. 

• Caregiving can be profoundly isolating, especially when you’re helpless to ease someone’s pain. 

• Community support can become a lifeline, even when it arrives during the darkest moments. 

• Gratitude should not be used to suppress anger, sadness, or resentment—those emotions need space too. 

• Children are deeply affected by grief, but honesty and closeness can strengthen the parent–child bond. 

• Healing often requires change—sometimes leaving behind familiar places to truly move forward.

About John Fowler:

John Fowler is a devoted father and widower who spent four years caring for his wife Nickie as she bravely battled colon cancer. Now raising four adult children — including one with special needs — he approaches life with resilience, patience, and a deep, unwavering compassion. A natural storyteller and a steady presence, John brings strength, warmth, loyalty, and humor into every space he enters.

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