Ksenia Merck Shares Her Journey Through Grief on the Tendrils of Grief Podcast

Finding Hope After Loss: Ksenia’s Story of Love, Loneliness, and Healing

Ksenia Merck joined the Tendrils of Grief podcast as a deeply moving guest, sharing a story that sits at the intersection of love, loss, creativity, and spiritual connection. An artist, architect, and creative storyteller, Ksenia spoke candidly about the profound loneliness, anger, and disorientation that can accompany grief—even when surrounded by others. Her conversation with host Susan Ways unfolded as an honest exploration of what it means to keep living, creating, and loving after devastating loss.

Ghostflower: Honoring Her Late Husband Through Art and Storytelling

At the heart of Ksenia’s journey is Ghostflower, a genre-blending science fiction novel written by her late husband, William F. Merck II. Before his passing in March 2024, Bill made it clear that publishing this book mattered deeply to him. After losing both her mother and her husband within a short span of time, Ksenia honored that wish by bringing Ghostflower to life through her own artwork and illustrations, transforming grief into a shared, posthumous collaboration. She also created the Ghostflower Companion Journal, inviting readers to reflect on love, loss, humanity, and legacy through art and thoughtful prompts.

Staying Connected With Loved Ones After Death

Throughout the episode, Ksenia spoke powerfully about maintaining a connection with loved ones after death—not through grand rituals, but through quiet moments of trust, creativity, and presence. Whether sketching at the dining room table where conversations once unfolded, driving while “talking” through ideas with Bill, or feeling guided during the creation of a single charcoal drawing, she described grief not as an ending, but as an evolving relationship. Her story echoed the podcast’s core message: love does not disappear, and connection does not end when someone dies.

Creative Healing and Finding Purpose in Grief

Ksenia’s appearance on Tendrils of Grief offered listeners reassurance that there is no timeline for healing and no single “right” way to grieve. Creativity, faith, purpose, and simple everyday conversations can all become bridges between worlds. As she continues her work through Merck 2 Press and begins writing her own reflections on grief, Ksenia carries forward a legacy rooted in helping others—one gentle step at a time. Her story is a reminder that even in the depths of loss, meaning, beauty, and hope can still emerge.

Listen to the Podcast Episode

If Ksenia’s story resonates with you, we highly encourage you to listen to her full conversation on the Tendrils of Grief podcast. Hear firsthand how she navigates grief, honors her late husband’s legacy, and finds creative ways to stay connected with those she loves. This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, practical insights, and inspiring messages for anyone experiencing loss.

🎧 Listen to Ksenia Merck on the Tendrils of Grief Podcast