Because of Brett: A View of Grief Without Pigeonholes 🕊️

By Sarah Woodier.

Because of Brett by Sarah Woodier is a heartfelt and emotional account of one mother's journey through the unimaginable grief of losing her son.

Written with raw honesty, it is clear that this book is deeply personal and aims to offer a different perspective on grief, one that isn't laden with clichés or prescribed ideas from so-called experts.

Sarah Woodier's writing captures the pain and complexity of her grief after the loss of her son, Brett, to leukaemia at just eighteen years old.

Her account is both compelling and heart-wrenching, offering insight into the emotions she experienced before and after his death. The desire to break the silence around grief is admirable, as it can often be uncomfortable or misunderstood by those who haven't experienced it themselves.

As a nurse, I found myself conflicted while reading. While I felt the emotional weight of Sarah's journey, there were moments that seemed to reflect a perception of care and compassion that could be interpreted differently through the lens of grief. For instance, Sarah recalls interactions with hospital staff, specifically a moment where a nurse was perceived as laughing or smiling while Brett was in the hospital. As a healthcare professional, I understand that such moments might be part of the delicate balance of humanising a painful situation, but the grief-stricken mind may not always interpret these actions kindly.

Ultimately, Because of Brett is an incredibly moving exploration of a mother's grief, and I sincerely hope it has provided some catharsis for Sarah and her family. While I struggled with some of the perspectives that came through, the book's authenticity and the genuine desire to share personal experiences make it a worthwhile read for those who have faced loss, or for anyone seeking a more human portrayal of grief.

Buy the book here.