Cancer Grief Resources: Essential Books and Podcasts

At Flatwater, we've supported more than 3,000 individuals and families navigating life after a cancer diagnosis in many different circumstances. While many of those individuals or families are navigating treatment or survivorship, this resource guide is specifically for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one to cancer.

Grief after the loss of a loved one to cancer varies; you may have experienced a long caregiving journey before your loss, or perhaps the diagnosis-to-death timeline was shockingly brief. Whatever your experience, we know your grief is unique—appearing in unexpected waves and affecting every aspect of your life. While there's no "right way" to grieve nor a timeline for it, having practical tools to navigate this emotional landscape can make a profound difference in your healing journey.

In this guide, we've compiled resources specifically for those mourning someone who has died from cancer. We've carefully selected books, podcasts, and therapeutic approaches that may prove helpful during your bereavement journey. 

Whether you're in the raw early stages of grief or navigating your loss months or years later, we hope these resources offer you meaningful support and comfort as you find your way forward.

5 Books on Grief and Healing

Reading about others’ experiences with grief or gaining insight from specialists can help validate emotions and provide strategies for coping. Here are some highly recommended books:

1. "The Year of Magical Thinking" – Joan Didion

A powerful memoir detailing the year following the sudden loss of Didion’s husband, this book explores the surreal nature of grief and how it alters everyday life.

2. "Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy" – Sheryl Sandberg & Adam Grant

Written by Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg after the sudden death of her husband, this book combines personal reflection with psychological research on resilience and healing.

3. "It's OK That You're Not OK" – Megan Devine

This book challenges the idea that grief should be "fixed" and instead offers compassionate guidance on navigating deep sorrow.

4. "Bearing the Unbearable: Love, Loss, and the Heartbreaking Path of Grief" – Joanne Cacciatore

Written by a bereavement expert, this book helps readers understand the complex emotions of grief while offering ways to integrate loss into their lives.

5. "Healing After Loss: Daily Meditations for Working Through Grief" – Martha Whitmore Hickman

A collection of daily reflections and meditations designed to provide comfort and perspective through the grieving process.

5 Podcasts That Offer Comfort and Understanding

Listening to conversations about grief can be incredibly reassuring, offering perspectives from those who have walked a similar path. Here are some podcasts that provide comfort, insights, and strategies for healing:

1. "Griefcast" – Cariad Lloyd

This award-winning podcast features comedians and creatives discussing their experiences with loss, bringing both humor and honesty to difficult conversations.

2. "Terrible, Thanks for Asking" – Nora McInerny

Host Nora McInerny, who has experienced profound loss herself, shares real unfiltered conversations about grief and the complexities of life after loss.

3. "The Grief Coach" – Brooke James

This podcast offers expert advice, personal stories, and practical tips for navigating grief and supporting others through loss.

4. "Good Mourning" – Sally Douglas & Imogen Carn

Two women who lost their mothers unexpectedly share their raw and heartfelt journey through grief, with expert interviews and community support.

5. "What’s Your Grief" – Eleanor Haley & Litsa Williams

Created by grief professionals, this podcast explores different types of loss, how grief affects mental health, and strategies for coping.

Finding Strength Through Support

Grief is not something to overcome but rather something to carry differently over time. It’s essential to be patient with yourself and seek support when needed. Whether through books, podcasts, therapy, or community, there are many ways to navigate the pain of loss and move toward healing.

At Flatwater, we are here to provide access to mental health resources for those impacted by a cancer diagnosis in central Texas, including those grieving the loss of a loved one. If you or someone you know needs support, visit Flatwater.org to learn more about how we can help.

Healing is a journey that you don’t have to walk alone.

This article provides general mental health information for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or professional treatment recommendations. Readers are advised to consult qualified healthcare professionals for personalized guidance regarding medical conditions, mental health concerns, and individual treatment options.