Today is the continuation of a conversation Laura had with Greg and Cathy Bufkin. In last week’s discussion and this week, the talk goes beyond the topic of suicide, so no matter how your child left this earth, you will be encouraged by what is shared.
Greg and Cathy Buffkin lost their son, Ryan, to 
suicide in 2015. On their journey that began out of unspeakable trauma and brokenness, God has brought them through to a place of restoration, hope and joy with a passion to help other grieving families on their journeys. They are co-founders of The Empty Chair Endeavor, which is designed to support and equip survivors of child loss in rediscovering life, hope, and joy after unspeakable tragedy. Additionally, their mission involves educating the public about the life altering impact the death of a child has upon survivors, both parents and siblings, and equipping them to better support and minister to them. Greg and Cathy live in South Carolina.
(Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.)
Links Mentioned in this episode:
Connect with Greg and Cathy Buffkin at www.emptychairendeavor.com.
Find out more about the 2026 Grief Cruise and/or the Renew and Remember Retreat here.
Birthdays:
Christi Gayheart was born on April 29 and left us at age 49.
Eric Merciers was born on May 1 and left us at age 38.
Aaron Opoku was born on May 1 and left us at age 27.
Milo Kostrna bloomed on earth to blossom in heaven on May 3.
If you would like your child mentioned on the podcast the week of his or her birthday, click here to fill out the short form with the needed information.
The special song written for our children’s birthdays I Remember Well can be heard here.
Remember to Hold On Pain Eases; there is HOPE!
To have Laura come and minister at your event, contact us at office@gpshope.org.
Grieving Parents Sharing Hope (GPS Hope) is here to walk with parents through the darkness of child-loss, guiding them to a place of hope, light and purpose.
It is a safe place for anyone who has lost a child from this earth. There is no shame or judgment in where you are in this journey, including if you are struggling in your relationship with God or your faith has been completely shattered.
