Surviving the Year of Firsts: A Mom's Guide to Grieving Child Loss

by Alycia Morales

Your child is gone. Your heart is broken.
How on earth do you survive this?
When we’re preparing for motherhood, we don’t expect to have to bury our children four, nineteen, or thirty-six years later. Nor are we prepared for grief’s assault on us and those we love. Is there any hope left in this life? And if so, where do you find it?

Alycia Morales knows your grief is as unique as you are and will help you navigate the foggy forest of child loss, a journey she’s survived multiple times.

In 52 bite-sized chapters, with deep biblical insight and genuine compassion, Alycia will help
push through the pain and heartbreak of grief, with hope to discover a new normal where the ache remains but death has lost its stingcontinue to put one foot in front of the other, taking small steps toward getting back to living a life that not only honors the Lord, but honors your child’s memory as welllearn to refocus your thoughts, taking them captive to the Way, the Truth, and the Life, rather than dwelling on death’s doorstepseek out the treasures in daily life and walk in gratitude as you journey down this path with God
Despite the heartbreak and devastation you currently feel, you can experience healing, hope, and joy. An abundance of life remains for you this side of heaven. Let’s go find it.

Genres: Grief

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 17, 2024

About the author

Alycia Morales is a freelance editor and writer whose work has been featured in numerous magazines and several compilation books and devotionals. Her first book, Surviving the Year of Firsts: A Mom’s Guide to Grieving Child Loss releases September 17, 2024. Thanks to her mad editing skills, her clients have found publication and won multiple awards in several national contests. Alycia is also a sought-after book coach and loves helping authors create successful careers.

When she isn’t busy writing, editing, and reading, Alycia enjoys spending time with her husband taking hikes and fishing in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas or running off to the beach with friends. She loves coffee, sweet tea, crafting, and watching crime shows.

Reviews

[Starr Ayers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kudos to this author, who after the loss of her son used her grief for good. Alycia Morales, a “mama with a broken heart”, poignantly shares in 52 bite-size chapters lessons she learned while pushing through her year of firsts. Her love and compassion for those who find their world turned inside out, due to the loss of a child, shine through as she offers encouraging words of hope and healing.

All of us know those who are grieving, and more and more I learn of friends who have lost a child. It’s always hard to know what to say. I’m grateful for this beautiful book. At the end of every hope-filled chapter, Morales offers practical survival tips, focal verses, and questions for personal reflection.

I’ve already gifted several of these books to friends and plan to keep copies on hand. Those experiencing grief of any kind, at any stage, will find comfort and hope for healing within its pages.

[Deep Choudhary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alycia W. Morales’ Surviving the Year of Firsts is a heartfelt and invaluable resource for mothers navigating the harrowing journey of losing a child. From the outset, Morales acknowledges the profound and unique nature of grief, offering a compassionate voice that resonates deeply with those who are suffering.

The book is thoughtfully organized into 52 concise chapters, allowing readers to engage with the material at their own pace. This structure is particularly beneficial for those in the depths of grief, where long, dense texts can feel overwhelming. Each chapter is infused with warmth and understanding, as Morales draws upon her own experiences of loss to guide others through their darkest moments.One of the book’s greatest strengths is its blend of practical advice and spiritual insight. Morales provides readers with actionable steps to cope with their grief while grounding her guidance in biblical teachings. This combination offers not only comfort but also a framework for finding hope and purpose in the midst of heartache. Her reflections on honoring both the memory of a lost child and one’s faith serve as a powerful reminder that joy can coexist with sorrow.

Morales encourages readers to take small, deliberate steps toward healing. She emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself to feel the pain of loss while simultaneously seeking out moments of beauty and gratitude in everyday life. This balanced approach acknowledges that grief is not linear; rather, it is a complex journey that can include both heartache and glimpses of joy.Throughout the book, Morales invites readers to confront their grief honestly while also encouraging them to reclaim their lives. Her compassionate insights and gentle prompts help readers reflect on their thoughts and feelings, urging them to focus on hope and resilience rather than becoming trapped in despair.

Surviving the Year of Firsts is more than just a guide; it is a lifeline for those who feel lost in their sorrow. Morales offers a beacon of hope, demonstrating that healing is possible, even amidst profound loss. Her wisdom and empathy make this book an essential read for any mother facing the unthinkable, illuminating a path toward recovery and renewal.In conclusion, Alycia W. Morales provides readers with a heartfelt companion through one of life’s most devastating experiences. Surviving the Year of Firsts not only honors the pain of losing a child but also celebrates the potential for healing and joy that remains in life, making it a profoundly impactful resource for those on this challenging journey.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Alycia W. Morales’ that I’ve had the privilege of reading, and I hope she will continue to write many more. I have experienced a miscarriage myself almost 18 years ago; and also had to say goodbye to my in-laws, both within six months of each other, so grief and I have met.
While this book nails it regarding the feelings and emotions of grief when losing a child, it is not only for parents grieving the death of their children, it’s for any loss an individual is experiencing.
I felt as though Alycia had walked into my home and traveled the road of grief I’m currently on, that’s how well this book ministered to me. I found myself crying because I was experiencing those emotions again or simply crying for Alycia and her family as they walked a different path than mine looked like, equally (or maybe even harder at times) as mine.

She explains to the reader at the very beginning that the chapters will be very short, have survival tools and a verse because when you’re grieving, it’s hard enough to get through one day, let alone have anything of length to have to read. Have to’s and grief don’t mix, and she takes the “have to” out of the equation and instead offers bite-size lifelines which are the perfect size. Something for readers to look forward to, someone who understands, not one more thing that has to get done.

I loved how Alycia shared her heart with the readers, showing us the little “God hugs” He sprinkled throughout the first year to bring her extra comfort when she needed it most. I also loved how so much of what she experienced, I, too, had gone through, and didn’t realize it was normal or “okay.”

I found myself crying when she talked about sobbing while grocery shopping, realizing she would never buy “___” for Caleb again. I, too, had found myself months earlier sobbing while passing the pork rinds, knowing I could never surprise my mother-in-law with them this side of heaven again either.

This book is a wonderful encouragement to any individual struggling with the first year after losing someone they love. It spoke directly to my soul, and I know it will do the same for others.

I was given this book as a complimentary copy but was not required to write a review.

[Charla · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In the face of death, especially that of a child, it’s so easy to lose heart—to get lost in death. Seeking out the good in this life is a key to going forward on our journey toward surviving this trauma.” – Alycia Johnson Morales, Surviving the Year of Firsts

I have not experienced the loss of a child. However, I have walked with my parents following the loss of their daughter - my sister for 50 years. For anyone who has experienced losing a child, is navigating the horrendous grief now, or may one day know the pain of making funeral plans instead of celebrating another birthday of a child, Alycia's book is balm for the pain.

I am sure this is not a book she planned to write, and I stand in awe and admiration of her heart for other mamas who are grieving child loss.

Alycia's words touched my soul; I knew she understood my pain. Reading her story was, at times, like reading my journal. I experienced release in knowing someone else experienced thoughts, emotions, and exhaustion similar to mine. Her book contains intentionally short chapters – each concluding with a Survival Tip, A Verse to Focus On, and a Reflection Question. Her writing is candid, encouraging, and based on solid faith in God through Jesus Christ and The Word.

Surviving the Year of Firsts: A Mom's Guide to Grieving Child Loss is more than a story; it is a hand to hold in the form of words. It is a resource to aid when nothing makes sense, yet grieving parents must make decisions. It is an offering from one mama to others in their time of need.

Thank you, Alycia, for choosing to pour your story as an offering to minister to others when the unthinkable loss of a child (no matter their age) becomes a reality for parents, siblings, and friends of the family. I know this isn't a book you ever thought you would write; it's a book God will use to help, heal, and guide others when they feel taking the next step is impossible.

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️Surviving the Year of Firsts is a deeply compassionate guide designed for mothers facing one of the most unimaginable losses: the death of a child. Written by Alycia Morales, herself a mother who has endured this journey, the book offers solace and support through 52 brief yet potent chapters that span the emotional and spiritual landscape of child loss. Each chapter serves as a stepping stone, gently guiding readers through the raw, complex stages of grief while encouraging them to find small moments of hope and healing.

⚫️What stands out about Morales’s approach is her genuine empathy coupled with profound biblical insights. She does not shy away from the heartbreak of loss, yet she persistently points to a faith-centered path, helping mothers transform their pain into resilience. Morales emphasizes the idea of “taking thoughts captive” and redirecting grief into a life of purpose—a message that speaks to readers struggling to regain footing amid the devastation.

⚫️The book’s structure is both thoughtful and accessible. Each chapter provides just enough to ponder without overwhelming, making it suitable for readers who may be emotionally exhausted. Morales weaves practical advice with spiritual wisdom, emphasizing gratitude and moments of joy that coexist with grief, ultimately helping readers to reshape their lives in a way that honors both their faith and their child’s memory.

⚫️For anyone navigating the profound journey of child loss, Surviving the Year of Firsts is a companion offering not just understanding, but a roadmap to finding life on the other side of loss. Morales’s words are a testament to the strength and renewal that can be found, even when the heart is forever marked by grief.

Happy reading ❤️✨

[Raewyn Elsegood · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Powerful Whisper of Hope

Strong words learn't through experience, echo through the valleys and mountains of these pages on surviving grief. Each chapter gently taking you by the hand, nudging forward, encouraging faithful action towards hope.

'My child is in my future, not my past' is an incredible statement for a grieving mother to make. A revelation that stopped me in my tracks and allowed my own heart to beat with anticipation for eternity. A steady and comforting pace is kept throughout the book, making it a surprisingly fast read without being overwhelmed. A reflective gift to all grieving mothers.

I wrote this review based on an advanced reading copy via the author. Im reviewing it voluntarily.

[Cathy Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I have not experienced the same devastating loss as the author, Surviving the Year of Firsts gave me a deeper understanding of how to come alongside and support friends walking through this valley.

I appreciated the author's conversational tone. It's not clinical but warm and sincere, as if we were talking side-by-side on a couch. Her survival tips encourage the soul, as does the scripture verse with a pause for reflection.

As I read the book, 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 kept coming to mind, and I couldn't help but thank God for the author's willingness to comfort others in the same way she received it from the Lord.

[Maureen Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alycia Morales pours her heart out on each page, even through pain. In fact, writing this book had to be a labor of love. Her objective? To share from personal experience that others might find healing. This truly is a survival guide, offering helpful hints and pointing readers to the Source of true healing through comforting, promising, life-giving scriptures. As one who has several friends who recently suffered the loss of a child, I will be purchasing this book to share with them, and I know it will bring peace in the midst of suffering.

[Penny Reeve · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a gentle companion for grieving mothers facing the first year after the loss of their precious child. Author, Alycia W Morales, shares honestly from her own story while also offering tools for parents in similar situations to navigate the heartache of that first year. With 52 short, easy to read chapter, this is an accessible resource for grieving mothers. Although I have not lost a child myself, I found this a helpful book to get a glimpse of what that experience must be like. Recommended.

[Katherine Pasour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hope for healing after tragic loss
We’ve all experienced the loss of a loved one, but parents don’t expect to outlive their children. The death of a child is the most challenging of losses. Alycia Morales, in Surviving the Year of Firsts, shares a compassionate, yet realistic story of her journey of grief and survival following the loss of an adult son. Her tender and loving concern for the suffering of parents following the loss of a child gives hope for healing.

[Rebecca White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book for anyone grieving with many ideas and tips applicable to all those who have lost a loved one but especially for those who have lost a child. The author is vulnerable as she shares from her own eperience of loss while being uplifting and encouraging for those struggling with grief.

[Fran · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is well done. It walks one through many of the struggles encountered during the first year of losing a child. There is room to journal after each short chapter. I found that journaling my feelings was really helpful in getting through those early years of grief.

[L M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so helpful to me in the loss of my daughter. The author is so genuine and gives great survival tips. Thank you so much for sharing.

[Melissa McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surviving the Year of Firsts brought me to tears and renewed my hope. The author's raw and honest accounts of grief following her son's death hit home. Anyone who has lost a child or a close loved one will find comfort and strength through the personal stories, survival tips, and Scriptures shared here. This book's message offers readers a shoulder to cry on and the hope of heaven.