In this week's moving episode of "Surviving Loss, our Journey of Hope," host Milton Dennis welcomes Lisa Kessler-Peters, a two-time published author and a beacon of resilience. The episode honors Lisa's late brother, Ian Christopher Radford, a gentle soul lost too soon at 19 due to unresolved mental health issues and trauma.

Lisa opens up about her harrowing childhood, marked by her first suicide attempt at age nine amidst a backdrop of familial neglect and abuse. Despite excelling academically, she grapples with mental health challenges, self-harm, and substance abuse, reflecting a stark contrast between her public achievements and private struggles.

As Lisa transitions into adulthood, her life initially stabilizes with a family and career. However, an abusive relationship and a traumatic brain injury plunge her back into financial hardships, homelessness, and a descent into substance abuse and criminal activities in a desperate bid for survival.

The episode takes a poignant turn as Lisa recounts her time in solitary confinement during her incarceration in 2014. In these moments of deep despair, she experiences a profound, life-altering realization that sets her on a path towards healing and transformation.

Milton Dennis lauds Lisa for her courage in sharing her story, emphasizing its power to resonate with and inspire listeners. The narrative culminates with an invitation to the next episode, where Lisa will delve into her journey of hope and the lessons learned from her extraordinary life.

Listeners are encouraged to discover more about Lisa's experiences in her books, "Why I Tried to Die" and "How I Learned to Hide," offering further insight into her journey from darkness to light.

Visit CalsHope.com | Call or Text 988 for confidential mental health and suicidal ideation support