Lessons
from my
Unexpected Life
From the beginning, my life has been unexpected
and against the odds.
Coming Fall 2026
Lessons from the Unexpected™:
Living with Prolonged Grief
Written by Columbia-trained Prolonged Grief Disorder specialist and unexpected widow, Gera Krahe McGuire, this book series offers an inside track to understanding prolonged grief from the inside out with practical tools for grievers and the companions walking beside them.
Lessons from the Unexpected™:
Living with Prolonged Grief
A candid field guide for when deep, traumatic grief refuses to move
Companion Journal
Lessons from the Unexpected™:
Living with Prolonged Grief
A companion journal for further understanding and reflection for those with PGD
Supporting Those Living
with Prolonged Grief
A resource for those walking alongside family or friends experiencing enduring grief
The Memoir
What happens when life flips in seconds? Gera provides an honest look at young widowhood, prolonged grief, and the lessons of her unexpected life.
Everyday Reflections
Ongoing essays about living an unexpected life
Sample a few of the reflections below
He Saw Me
"It would make me so happy to love you that way," he said, forcing me to stand down. Sixteen years after losing my husband, I am still learning how to step out of the relentless sprint of solo parenting and simply allow myself to receive.
Tall Tale
There was a time when I couldn’t look at anything of Bob’s without crying. But finding his old clothes brought smiles instead of tears this time, proving that grief is a manifestation of love.
Perspective
Lessons from my late husband regarding abundance and grace. The material is immaterial; it's the mortals that matter most.