Today we’d like to introduce you to Keyiona Ritchey.
Hi Keyiona, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story begins in the depth and darkness of my grief. My twin brother died very suddenly and unexpectedly in August 2019. My entire world was turned upside. As a way to cope, I attended a free grief support group in my community. I found this a safe space to process my grief with others who were also grieving a loved one. Experiencing the benefits of attending a grief support group, I decided I wanted to help people from low income and marginalized and minoritized communities have access to this same type of grief resource. I was the only African American woman attending the group and person who had lost a sibling. Most participants had lost a spouse. I often wondered why there weren’t more people who come from similar backgrounds that I come free attending this group. It was free after all. I decided I wanted to help bridge the gap and start a accessible grief support group to help others. As part of my healing journey the Buddy Love Grief Support Group was born. This is a free online support group for anyone who has lost a loved one. It is in memory and honor of my twin brother Kevin better known as Buddy.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Starting this support group has not been a smooth road. The logistics were easy to put together, however, I have struggled with getting people to attend. Attending a grief support group and talking about your feelings and things you are struggling with takes real vulnerability and courage. The pain of losing a loved one is deep and everyone grieves differently. It is not easy to talk about something that is painful with strangers. You have to be in a certain mindset to be open to attending a grief support group. I understand that a grief support helped me and it may not be something others want to participate in.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the Guardian Scholars Program Coordinator at a California Community College. I support students who have been in the foster care system meet their educational goals. I’m very passionate about this work because I believe everyone should have access to a quality education no matter the background they come from. As a first generation college graduate, I believe education is a pathway to liberation and overcoming generational poverty and trauma. I am most proud of never giving up no matter how many times life has knocked me down. I am the definition of resilience. What sets me apart from others is I am a life long learner, I am confident and seek validation from myself, and I know what my purpose in life is.
What makes you happy?
My family and friends who’ve become my chosen family make me happy because they support and hold me down no matter what. Their love for me is visceral and unconditional. My two dogs Juno and Jules who are loyal, loving, and give the best snuggles. Coffee, chocolate, and nature all make me happy by energizing me emotionally and physically. Lastly, Lizzo. Her music and everything she stands for makes me happy and reminds me I am special.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blgriefsupportgroup.com/
- Instagram: buddy_love_grief_support
