Blackbird

A Mother’s Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide

By: Betsy Thibaut Stephenson

Narrated by: Julia Hamra

Is grief on a dial or a switch? Both.

Over six short weeks in 2022, Betsy Thibaut Stephenson lost her son to suicide, mother-in-law to dementia, and family dog to cancer. Rather than succumb to grief’s darkness, Betsy chose to face her losses head-on, accepting grief as an uninvited yet permanent companion in her revised life.

Blackbird is a memoir composed in real time, a concise and brutally honest look at the emotional, physical, and spiritual impact of deep despair. By unflinchingly pulling back the curtain on fear and shame, Betsy’s story inspires important conversations about mental health, grief resilience, and creating a path toward healing.

©2025 Betsy Thibaut Stephenson (P)2025 Betsy Thibaut Stephenson

Real, love, forever

Such an incredible and heartbreaking story meaningful to all audiences. Whether you have had the same experience, know someone who has, have a son or daughter, or know someone close to you with depression, the message in the book is relatable, raw, and very real. Betsy-Thank you for sharing your story.

Book of strength, survival, and raw emotions

Beautifully written book that shines light on the loss of Charlie, depression suicide, grief, and Betsy’s path to healing and creating a new normal.
I can attest that Charlie was a bright light, a blessing, a fraternity brother, and a roommate to my son and he will never be forgotten. Charlie was loved and is missed by so many!

True reflection and helpful insight

The honestly that comes from the author makes this a wonderful read that will open up communication and understanding of a form of grief that people shy away from discussing. The narrator speaks from the heart which makes you feel you are listening to the author. Its a must read for everyone, no matter what you have faced in your lifetime.