oThanksgiving!  When one door close……

As that special day approaches, I am reminded of so many things to be thankful for, as I’m sure most of us are. But as a Widow some of those things come with memories we would prefer to leave be, but that is the best thing to do.

I remember as a newlywed hosting my first Thanksgiving dinner. We only had a small house we rented, with no dining room, just a small kitchen table. There was a small, screened porch attached to the kitchen, so we set up a folding table out there with white tablecloths and candles. I still smile when I remember that day.

Now, today at our Thanksgiving table there are people missing, but there are also additions. You know the old adjudge, when one door closes another open. I believe that is true in so many ways in our life.

I challenge you all to not focus on your losses but look at what you may have added to your lives this Thanksgiving.

Ruth Saunders

Support Widows This Holiday Season! As we approach the holidays, the Hope for Widows Foundation is seeking sponsors for our annual Bring Hope Holiday Program. This initiative supports widows facing financial challenges, helping them provide gifts and essentials for their children during this special time of year. Widows: If you are seeking support this holiday season, applications are open now through November 22 — we are here for you. Sponsors: Want to make a difference? Become a sponsor and bring hope to a widow’s family this holiday season. Sponsor applications are open through December 12. Every contribution, big or small, helps spread joy and light. To apply or to sign up as a sponsor, visit: https://linktr.ee/hopeforwidows Let’s make this season brighter together!

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About 

At 39 years old, Ruth Wester found herself a widow raising three teenage children. Her husband, Greg Wisdom, was just 35 when he was diagnosed with cancer. Greg worked as both a firefighter and a paramedic and faced nearly ten years of treatment—chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. In the end, his body could no longer keep up the fight. After 20 years and 17 days of marriage, Greg passed away, leaving behind a loving family.

Eight years later, Ruth married Mel Saunders, who had been a close friend of Greg’s and had also lost his spouse five years earlier. Their friendship and shared life experiences brought them together. They blended their two families—each with three adult children—into one. Thankfully, the children were already friends, and the transition was a smooth one. But after 23 years of marriage to Mel, Ruth was widowed once again when he passed away.

Over the years, Ruth has worked in a variety of roles. She was the editor of a newspaper for an all-male fraternal organization for 17 years, published a small children’s magazine, and worked as a dental assistant and medical receptionist.

Today, Ruth is retired and lives in Florida with her small dog, Sophie. She enjoys spending time at the beach with her daughter and stays active in her community. Ruth coordinates a widows’ support group that meets monthly for lunch and conversation. She also runs a card ministry, sending handmade greeting cards to widows who could use a little encouragement.

Ruth’s life has included great loss, but she continues to find purpose in connection and care for others.

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Ruth Saunders

At 39 years old, Ruth Wester found herself a widow raising three teenage children. Her husband, Greg Wisdom, was just 35 when he was diagnosed with cancer. Greg worked as both a firefighter and a paramedic and faced nearly ten years of treatment—chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. In the end, his body could no longer keep up the fight. After 20 years and 17 days of marriage, Greg passed away, leaving behind a loving family. Eight years later, Ruth married Mel Saunders, who had been a close friend of Greg’s and had also lost his spouse five years earlier. Their friendship and shared life experiences brought them together. They blended their two families—each with three adult children—into one. Thankfully, the children were already friends, and the transition was a smooth one. But after 23 years of marriage to Mel, Ruth was widowed once again when he passed away. Over the years, Ruth has worked in a variety of roles. She was the editor of a newspaper for an all-male fraternal organization for 17 years, published a small children’s magazine, and worked as a dental assistant and medical receptionist. Today, Ruth is retired and lives in Florida with her small dog, Sophie. She enjoys spending time at the beach with her daughter and stays active in her community. Ruth coordinates a widows’ support group that meets monthly for lunch and conversation. She also runs a card ministry, sending handmade greeting cards to widows who could use a little encouragement. Ruth’s life has included great loss, but she continues to find purpose in connection and care for others.

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