As my mom’s health declined, I found myself in an unexpected space—one which felt both heavy and meaningful. My mom spent her last two decades of life fighting one cancer after another. I cared for her all those years. There were times of heartache and frustration, and there were also times of laughter and peace. In the moment the days felt ordinary, geared toward meeting my mom’s needs, but looking back I realized how sacred the time with her was.
This book brings a few of those moments to light. Whether you have lost a loved one or are caring for someone near the end of their life, my hope is that the fond memories I shared with my mom can inspire you to find the beauty in the ordinary and difficult moments of your journey. Reflecting on happier times could mitigate your grief. Most importantly, I want you to not feel alone.
Some Relief from Grief is a memoir about my relationship with my mom, particularly how it shifted during her later years of life, as I moved into a caregiving role.
In this book, you won’t find self-help and academic solutions to clinically assist with your grief. Instead, this memoir is an example of how joy and suffering often get jumbled up, but it’s in the remembrance of those sacred moments you find relief from the grief.
“For now, though, Mom was in the SNF. Her recovery required it. Still, the reasoning behind the decision didn’t make it easier to see Mom confined to that little bed, unable to walk. What made it even worse came during one of my daily visits.That day, I waved off her usual litany of questions about when she could leave. She grew uncharacteristically quiet. Then, with tears in her eyes, she whispered, “You are not going to let me die here, are you?”
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"This is a beautifully written manuscript. Some Relief From Grief is spot on. The author's honest reflection on his mother's life and his journey through grief is extremely well written. The humor he uses throughout it is especially effective offering warmth and lightness at just the right moments. The unconditional love of a son shines through in a way that is especially moving. It’s a touching tribute. A wonderful read."
Jay and Diane E.
Dave Dopp’s path was one from a middle-class upbringing to a career of four decades in healthcare leadership. Upon his retirement in 2024, he became a 250-hour certified yoga teacher and mentor. He helps others connect with their mind, body, and energy, especially when someone is suffering from difficult life experiences.
Some Relief from Grief is his first book in the “Dopper’s Tales” series. These are stories grounded in real life, written with a balance of empathy and humor.
Learn More About DavidSome Relief from Grief is the first in a series of personal stories exploring life’s more complex moments.
Each book chronicles different chapters of Dave’s life, combining tough topics, like loss and healing, with real-life comedic moments.
