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Jack McPeck: Grief activist

Spokane police chaplain Beth Wilson, left, chats with Jack McPeck of The Compassionate Friends at the International Conference of Police Chaplains on July 12. The Compassionate Friends helps families who have experienced the loss of a child. (Colin Mulvany)
Rebecca Nappi

When Jack McPeck first contacted EndNotes, it was through our gmail email address and he sounded a bit angry in the email. I forget why. But we emailed over the months and he softened and finally, we were able to meet and I ran this story Saturday about the group he’s involved in The Compassionate Friends.

After spending time with him for the interview, I realized that Jack’s passion to help other parents grieve sometimes comes across as a sort of anger. And that’s why I called him a grief activist. I’ve met others.

They don’t have time anymore for small talk, bs of any kind, judgment or superficiality. They have suffered what some consider the greatest loss — the loss of a child — and they have a strong desire to help other navigate their special version of hell.

Was happy to finally connect with Jack. I learned a lot more from him than reflected in the short story.

Thanks Jack.

* This story was originally published as a post from the blog "EndNotes." Read all stories from this blog