Being a Widow – Part 6

My name is Karen, and I am a widow.

Today I am sharing Rita Rizzo’s journey –

Life After Widowhood Journey

Rita and the interviewer discussed Rita’s journey as a widow and her approach to navigating life after loss. Rita shared an anecdote about taking her Great Pyrenees dog Bella to the grocery store, where Bella’s well-behaved behavior attracted attention from other shoppers. The interviewer explained their initiative to create a series featuring people who are actively living their lives after widowhood, rather than those who are “living in a shadow,” and expressed admiration for Rita’s positive outlook and willingness to engage with life.

Widowhood and Remembering Lou

Karen’s  interview with Rita Rizzo discusses how they met through a previous podcast and reconnected after both losing their spouses. Rizzo shared memories of her late husband Lou, including their political activism and how he supported Obama’s presidency. The conversation began with Rizzo describing a difficult day triggered by watching the Obama building dedication event, which reminded her of Lou and prompted reflections on their shared experiences.

Lou’s Life and Legacy Partnership

Rita shared the story of meeting Lou 35 years ago at a leadership training in Akron, Ohio, where they connected over their shared Native American heritage. They later collaborated on diversity training programs for various cities, eventually building a government consultancy together before marrying. Lou passed away after 33 years of marriage, with Rita caring for him during his final two years as his diabetes worsened.

Coping with Grief and Remembrance

Rita discussed her experience caring for her husband Lou over two years before his death, noting that while she had preparation time, the process was still challenging. She shared how she honors Lou’s memory by creating a tribute in her office with his ashes, photos, music, and wedding ring, though listening to his music can be emotionally difficult. The conversation highlighted how different people handle grief, Karen emphasized the importance of focusing on positive memories rather than dwelling on loss.

Widow’s Care Planning Discussion

Rizzo discussed her experiences as a widow and the challenges of being alone, including concerns about future care if she becomes ill. She mentioned her family and friends in Central Ohio and her pets but noted her pets aren’t able to provide the care she might need. Karen suggested that while nursing homes can have issues, there are good ones available and mentioned that home care options are becoming more accessible, potentially through Medicare.

Grandson Moving In Discussion

Rita shared that her 30-year-old grandson, a registered nurse, is moving in with her on the 30th of the month to work at Cleveland Clinic. She described how they completely redid the basement to create a new living space with a bedroom, game room, and living room for him. Karen share how they both see this as an opportunity for personal growth and change, with Rita acknowledging she had been resistant to change in her routines.

Obama Memories and Reflections

Rita shared her emotional reaction to watching clips of Obama during a building dedication in Chicago, which triggered memories of her work with Obama’s communications staff and her late husband Lou. She described how the experience led to tears and reflections on their past work promoting equality under Obama’s presidency. She also mentioned meeting a new male friend with whom she has gone to dinner occasionally, though she emphasized maintaining appropriate boundaries.

Rita’s Widowhood Experience

Rita shared her experiences with widowhood, describing her first marriage that ended tragically when her husband was murdered, and her current marriage to Lou which ended peacefully. She explained that she continues to wear her wedding ring as does Karen.  Karen discussed how she copes with missing physical affection from her late husband by accepting hugs and kisses from family and close friends. The host expressed appreciation for Rita’s participation in discussing widowhood and announced plans to share the conversation on newclevelandradio.net and Cleveland 13 News.

This is OUR journey.

If you are walking this path too, I invite you to join me.

#YesICan Coaching with Karen

Email: Kh.yesican1@gmail.com