Testimonials

"As a bereaved mother and grief educator, I'm always searching for ways people can show up for those who are grieving. I also know how hard it is to find the right words. These cards say so beautifully what so many traditional sympathy cards cannot - offering honesty, compassion, and real understanding. I reach for them time and again when I want someone to know they are not alone in their grief. Thank you, Stader, and Frances."
Monica Charette

Monica Charette is the founder and Executive Director of ShineOnCass Foundation, in memory of her daughter Cassidy Charette. Monica and her son Colby host a podcast for grieving families called Holding the Light. You can follow their interviews with other bereaved families wherever you listen to podcasts. shineoncass.org

"This is the card I would like to send - and the one I would have liked to receive."
Rebecca Cooper

Rebecca Cooper is the author of the genre-defining book, "Hey, God? Yes, Charles." You may find her loving journal (actually her husband's journal), and move from tears to laughter and back as Charles quizzes God on what to do about his wife's grief. A beautifully written and masterfully conceived narrative of sorrow and joy. www.heygodyescharles.com

"These cards really, really need to be out there. Your gift has already been more helpful than you know. Frances and God are surely up to something here!"
Monna Mayhall

The Reverend Monna Mayhall hosts a long-running bereavement class focusing on dealing with the ultimate loss. She also serves as the Assistant Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, soon to be celebrating two hundred years of serving residents of Franklin, Tennessee.

"When my mom passed away unexpectedly, our family experienced how difficult it can be to find the right words when someone is grieving. Shades of Grief was created from that experience. These cards offer simple, thoughtful messages from someone who truly understands loss and the quiet comfort sincere words can bring. To me, this collection is more than sympathy cards—it's a beautiful way to honor my mom while offering comfort and kindness to others during their time of grief."
Ashley Guidry

Ashley Guidry is the daughter of Frances, whose life and memory continue to inspire the heart behind Shades of Grief.

"Having been introduced to Shades of Grief by a close friend, I decided to share these beautiful cards with the readership of my magazine. We received some samples last month in preparation. But prior to publication, my beloved niece lost her mother. There on my desk lay the "Beautiful Soul, Beautiful Memories" card, and I knew it was exactly what I wanted to say to my niece. With permission from Stader to put a sample into service, I sent it out that day. Several days later my heart melted when I received her reply, "Thank you for the card. I think I have read it 100 times. I have it on my nightstand." That moment let me know that while the cards represent a lovely tribute from one man to his wife, they have a much higher purpose. What a beautiful concept!"
Orkke Clifton

Orkke Clifton is the Editor of 318Central Magazine. Her article on Shades of Grief can be found here.