Losing a spouse is one of life's most difficult and painful experiences. The sudden transition from "we" to "me" often leaves widows feeling unhinged, vulnerable, and overwhelmed. If they have children, they not only have to navigate their own emotions, as they encounter a tidal wave of grief, but also look for opportunities to comfort and nurture their kids. Broken Halos Haven was created to help in this process, providing a safe space for widows and their children to regroup--and even rediscover joy--in the wake of a monumental loss.

 

The grief getaway retreat was founded by Natalie Reid-Knutson in honor of her late husband, Wayne Reid, who died of a sudden heart attack in 2018. A friend invited the young widow and the couple's three children to New York City a few months after the tragic event, so they could enjoy the Christmas holiday away from the home that held so many memories. After Reid-Knutson met and married her current husband, Kjell, the newlywed couple decided to create a space convenient to DFW where other widows and widowers could get away. They purchased a 100+ year old house in the heart of Old Town Lewisville, and over the course of a year renovated the space inside and out with the help of volunteers and donations of labor and materials from several sponsors. 

 

Broken Halos Haven officially opened this summer and offers a unique program that lets guests create a kind of "gift registry" of activities that friends and family can purchase for them. Activities might include a trip to the Dallas Zoo, gift cards for Main Event, or dinner at Prairie House restaurant. Widows (or widowers) and their children can stay for three days and two nights free of charge, and can add additional nights to their registry for people to purchase.

 

To learn more about Broken Halos Haven, see photos of the house and sample grief getaway gift registries, or make a donation, please visit BrokenHalosHaven.org.