Testimonials

Mother of an 11-month-old boy

This journey that we are on is not a path that we ever wanted or expected to be a part of, but the support that Healing Hope has provided me and my family is much more than I could have ever expected. They are there to support my family and myself as we we go through all the different emotions that come with losing a child. They provide a safe and healing space that lets you work through your grief in a way that you decide. They do not judge you or tell you what to do, but support you through the journey. One thing that I find great from them is the fact that when you leave they still think of you and check in and reach out to you. You are not just a person to them, it is almost like they take you in as family to provide that support and caring that you need.

Mother of a 3-year-old boy

Healing Hope has helped to renew my faith. When my son died, I was angry at God. I now know that that is a normal reaction when you lose a child. Our God is more understanding than He is given credit for I think. I know He is taking care of my son and I will see him again one day. The Walk to Remember events are wonderful for communities to gather and remember children who have left us too soon. It gives hope and comfort to those who have lost and also those who know people who have had loss. Denny and Karri are wonderful people and I admire the work they do.

Father of a 2-year-old boy

Thank you for creating a place for grieving families to come. God has called you to help others and you have both succeeded. I never knew how much a resource like yours is needed until it is actually needed. We have learned a great deal from you and your experiences. This loss is not just an event but a journey until we are reunited in heaven.

Mother of 10-year-old boy

On the way there, I remember telling my husband, “I don’t know if I’m going to survive this.” We lost our precious son, age 10, three weeks prior. The pain was so deep and hurt so bad for so long. I wasn’t sure about this place as my husband was the one who made the contacts with them, etc. Upon arrival and meeting Karri & Denny, that hopelessness lifted. We immediately shared our story with them, although it was hard, it began to help us heal. I remember them sitting telling their story and seeing the word HOPE above them on the mantle, and thinking to myself, there really is HOPE…they survived their loss, I can get through this. They walked us through many difficult conversations that we were afraid of having, but they gave us permission to have. They were healing to us and we would have never had those conversations without them guiding us. Thank you for sharing your love, your words, your hospitality, your wisdom and your genuine care with us. We will be forever grateful.

Mother that attended the Ladies Retreat

It was the most comfortable grief event I have been to. 

Mother of a 2-year-old boy

What a blessing Healing Hope has been to our family. Thank you for being willing to not only hear our story, but then be there to walk side by side with us during our journey. Just being understood in our very early grief was comforting. As we leave weary and exhausted from working through our feelings, we know we have been given the tools to mourn and grieve in a healthy way. We see the smallest glimmer of light after being here and know Karri and Denny will continue to love and support us as we walk further down the road toward healing. Thank you for loving us through our pain.

Teenage sister of a brother gone too soon

No one wanted to be here, but you are. My advice would be to open up because once you do you’ll feel a lot better and this retreat will help. Karri and Denny are very helpful and they get what you’re going through. I pray that your stay is helpful and your grief becomes bearable one day. 

Mother who attended the Ladies Retreat

The retreat was awesome and allowed us to release emotions! We need to embrace the emotions and not stuff them. It was nice to know others have the same pain. 

Parents of a stillborn baby

After we lost our daughter, we had these horrible emotions and thoughts. We thought we were the only ones who had them. After spending time with Karri and Denny, we realized that we aren’t alone. We now feel like we can actually grieve and not feel guilty about it.

Parents of a 4-year-old boy

It was a turning point in our grief journey. Time on retreat gave us tools to sort through our grief and make peace with our pain. We are so grateful that this important ministry is now available in South Dakota. 

Pediatric Palliative Care Clinical Nurse Specialist

As a Clinical Nurse Specialist who works with families of children who die, I recognize the emotional stress families experience after a loss of a child or sibling. As they walk the journey of grief, families find value in connecting with other families who have a common experience. Families are able to share and heal together as they walk this journey of grief. 

Father of a twin that died shortly after birth

It's been a blessing to meet someone that has gone through the same thing. It's amazing how many friendships and connections we've made through the Walk to Remember Event. It's a great way to heal and talk about your story and hear other people's stories and be able to heal together.