Episode 12: Sibling Series Part 3 – A Conversation With Caraline Bothmer
In this episode of Broken Vessels, we continue our sibling series with my daughter, Caraline, as she reflects on her personal experience of grief after the loss of her sister. Caraline was deeply impacted by the addiction that shaped her sister’s life, and the grief she carries is marked by the absence of a relationship that could have been. In this candid conversation, Caraline opens up about the emotions of guilt, confusion, and the longing to have had more time together. Her story is a powerful reminder that grief looks different for everyone, especially for siblings, and that it’s important to honor grief in all its forms.
Join us as we explore how grief can manifest in unexpected ways and how understanding and compassion can help us navigate these complex emotions.
Episode 12’s podcast with Caroline spoke to me as someone who lost a sibling to addiction. My youngest brother lost his battle with addiction on December 1, 2022. He was 57. We were 13 years apart and as a child growing up he would sometimes call me mommy. As close as we were, especially when he was younger I couldn’t help him. I had no control over his life course or the destructive path he was taking. That left me helpless to help him and confused as to why?
Debra, Thank you so much for taking the time to listen and for going the extra step and leaving a comment. So grateful this message was one that spoke to you. You are a warrior Debra – Love you! – Carrie Ann