Michael Reed, a Tennessee resident who lost his wife and two daughters in the 2016 Gatlinburg wildfire, has transformed his grief into a mission to help others. Following the tragic event that claimed 14 lives, Reed experienced severe emotional distress, including anxiety attacks each November as he remembered his loss. He recounted how therapy and writing helped him cope with the pain.
In pursuit of healing, Reed enrolled in an online behavioral health sciences program at Grand Canyon University (GCU), inspired by their motto “Find your purpose.” This decision came on the seventh anniversary of his family’s deaths when he connected with GCU counselor Lynne Guidos. Guidos shared her own experience with grief after losing her mother, which resonated with Reed.
Within 18 months, Reed was progressing through his studies and had written a book titled “The Million Stages of Grief: A Guide to Finding Purpose for Your Pain.” Self-published on Amazon in April, it quickly became a bestseller in trauma psychology. The process of writing provided Reed relief and clarity.
Reed’s journey included grappling with deep despair and moments of spiritual questioning. He described seeing butterflies, ladybugs, and owls as symbols representing his late family members. In 2023, he embraced faith again, believing these signs were from God.
His academic pursuit also served as therapy. Engaging with other students and learning about grief’s complexities helped him develop coping mechanisms. “College has become therapy for me,” he stated.
Through this journey, Reed discovered there are many stages of grief beyond the traditional five. He emphasized that while one may never fully move on from such loss, it’s essential to find purpose within it.
Reed’s book concludes with themes of faith, hope, and love—values central to his recovery and forgiveness journey.
GCU’s Lynne Guidos continues to support Reed’s progress. She expressed pride in witnessing his growth since their initial conversation.
Michael Reed remains dedicated to using what he’s learned to assist others navigating similar experiences of grief.
