Normalizing Grief
Creating Space for Grief. Building Community through Connection.
Normalizing Grief creates compassionate spaces for conversation, connection, education, and community, dedicated to increasing grief literacy and reducing stigma that so often surrounds grief.
Through peer-led initiatives, education, and advocacy, we work to ensure that no one has to navigate loss alone.
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death
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imprisonment
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injury
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relocation
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illness
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relationships
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missed opportunity
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lifestyle
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divorce
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empty nest
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careers
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safety
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independence
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friendships
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goals
• death • imprisonment • injury • relocation • illness • relationships • missed opportunity • lifestyle • divorce • empty nest • careers • safety • independence • friendships • goals
Who We Are
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To increase grief literacy, reduce stigma, and provide compassionate education, advocacy, and community support for those navigating grief and loss.
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A society where grief is understood as a natural part of life, not something to hide, fix, or rush through.
We envision communities where honest conversations about loss are welcomed, support is accessible and connected, and no one has to navigate grief alone.
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Compassion • Honesty • Community • Education • Advocacy • Inclusion • Holistic Support • Collaboration
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Founded in 2023, Normalizing Grief creates brave spaces for grief support, education, coaching, workplace learning, and community connection. Melanie and Erica have facilitated monthly peer support meetings for bereaved parents across the GTA through The Compassionate Friends Ajax, the only The Compassionate Friends chapter serving the GTA.
Meet the Founders
ERICA EDWARDS
Vilomah | Grief Coach | Community Liaison
Erica is dedicated to creating brave spaces, building meaningful connections, and supporting people through community, conversation, and connection.
MELANIE HERON
Vilomah | Grief Coach | Advocate
Melanie is passionate about reducing grief stigma, fostering compassion, and supporting others as they navigate grief, loss, and life after loss.