Author and certified grief coach Kate Doerge published a book titled "Reimagining Grief," outlining a framework for managing loss following the deaths of several immediate family members. Doerge, who lost her father to heart failure, her mother in a car accident, and her 16-year-old daughter to a rare disease, appeared in an interview with Norah O'Donnell to discuss her approach to emotional recovery.
The author's methodology centers on five "actions of grief" intended to help individuals process loss with agency. Doerge stated that her approach is meant to help people "move through" rather than "move on" from grief, emphasizing that it is possible for individuals to experience both grief and joy simultaneously.
The five actions detailed by Doerge include connecting with others, celebrating the deceased through small gestures, being open to spiritual signs, engaging in physical movement, and turning personal pain into a broader purpose. Doerge noted that physical activity is "critical" for moving anxiety through the body, while connection with groups like exercise classes or grief circles can reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
As part of the final action, Doerge and her husband established Penny's Flight Foundation. The organization was founded following the 2022 death of their daughter, Penny, who had neurofibromatosis and an inoperable brain tumor. The foundation's stated goals are to fund scientific research for a cure and to increase public awareness of the genetic condition.
For those navigating personal loss, the "actions" framework suggests a shift in daily routine, such as prioritizing social interaction and physical exercise to mitigate long-term mental health effects. Doerge stated that research indicates these connections can specifically reduce the duration of prolonged grief. Individuals supporting those in grief may notice a shift in recommended communication, moving away from standard condolences toward sharing specific memories to help maintain the legacy of the deceased.
The work of Penny's Flight Foundation focuses on neurofibromatosis, a condition that causes tumors to grow on nerve pathways and can vary significantly between patients. The foundation seeks to address a gap in research funding and public knowledge. Future developments for the organization include ongoing efforts to find a cure, though specific medical milestones or deadlines for these research initiatives were not reported.