Parkland School Shooting: A Mother’s Story of Loss and Grief (#221)

Patricia Oliver, mother of Joaquin “Guac” Oliver, joins David Ferrugio on the DEAD Talks Podcast to share her journey of grief, resilience, and advocacy after the Parkland school shooting. Patricia opens up about losing her son in the tragedy, transforming unimaginable pain into purpose, and building a legacy of change in his honor.

Through Change the Ref, the foundation inspired by Joaquin’s spirit, Patricia has turned grief into activism—using art, storytelling, and powerful campaigns to raise awareness about gun violence and support families facing the same heartbreak.

In this conversation, Patricia reflects on:

• The day her world changed in Parkland
• Messages and signs she’s received from Joaquin
• How grief reshaped her life and identity
• The spiritual healing that keeps her moving forward
• Turning loss into activism through Change the Ref

This episode is a powerful reminder of how love, loss, and resilience can fuel lasting change.

Links to Patricia Oliver's work:

⁠Change The Ref⁠⁠

Lush Sonflower Bath Bomb Fund Raising⁠

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About DEAD Talks

 DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.

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