In 2011 my mother was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer. She opted to do a lumpectumy and radiation. And then, she opted to do chemotherapy to reduce the chances of the cancer coming back; the chemotherapy is what killed her.
This journey of grief has been traumatic. My mother was my best friend. She was non-judgmental. Nothing can fill that void my family has fallen apart
On one side, after she passed away, literally all her brothers and sisters except for one passed away from a broken heart. Although she died from the chemo I still support cancer research.
Leaning on my God for comfort. Also, the grief counseling group at 221 Whitney Ave helped me so much. Sadly I don’t think they offer the group any longer & Yale University EAP program doesn’t have a good selection of therapist.***
I just learn how to live each day of my life without her❤️
***Update: 11/26/2025
Please note: Support is available through Optum’s Emotional Wellbeing Solutions, Yale’s Employee Assistance Program.
Benefit-eligible faculty and staff can schedule a virtual or in-person session with Yale’s dedicated consultants.
Eligible faculty and staff and their household members can also access up to six free and confidential counseling sessions per area of concern, annually through a wide network of Optum providers. Counseling sessions provide short-term support for challenging life events or everyday concerns.
Visit the Optum Support Finder to locate a provider or call 866-416-6586 for more information.