Grief and Grit(s) - by Marsha Gray Hill (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Though the worldwide pandemic affected each of us differently, this time of turmoil brought one thing into stark clarity: the value of human life. When tragedy begets triaging and certain demographics are seen as more disposable than others, what does that say about our society? And what does it say about us? This is a story about America, about how we view the most vulnerable people in our society our aging and elderly both in times of crisis and in our everyday lives. This is also a story about a mother and daughter, of a mother raising her daughter in love, faith, and confidence, then the bizarre role-reversal as that mother deteriorated to the helplessness of a child. Nothing can prepare you for that intensity of sorrow and joy. Nothing can prepare you for what happens when the coroner refuses to show up and pronounce your mother legally dead, either."--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

Marsha Gray Hill's Grief and Grit(s) is an emotional odyssey that illuminates the complexities of grief, while offering a beacon of hope and inspiration for those navigating their own journeys of loss. This extraordinary memoir serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love to transcend even the darkest of times.

In times of unprecedented panic, we see what we're really made of.

Though the worldwide pandemic affected each of us differently, this time of turmoil brought one thing into stark clarity: the value of human life. When tragedy begets triaging and certain demographics are seen as more disposable than others, what does that say about our society? And what does it say about us?

This is a story about America, about how we view the most vulnerable people in our society--our aging and elderly--both in times of crisis and in our everyday lives.

This is also a story about a mother and daughter, of a mother raising her daughter in love, faith, and confidence, then the bizarre role-reversal as that mother deteriorated to the helplessness of a child. Nothing can prepare you for that intensity of sorrow and joy.

Nothing can prepare you for what happens when the coroner refuses to show up and pronounce your mother legally dead, either.

In this stunning debut, author Marsha Hill invites you into a personal look at an uncomfortable truth: how we treat our elderly today defines our own future. Full of tragedy and triumph, laughter and tears, grief and--yes, some good, old-fashioned grits--Grief and Grit(s) is not only a reflection of the life and tragic death of Adaline Gray, but the power of our generation to fight for human dignity at every stage of life.

Review Quotes

"Grief and Grit(s) offers an intimate portrayal of the journey through Alzheimer's and its profound impact on families. In the challenging context of the COVID pandemic, Marsha Hill's poignant narrative shines a light on the unwavering dedication of caregivers, especially the one who remained steadfast by her loved one's side. A must-read for anyone caring for a family member with Alzheimer's."--Anna W. Carr, Marketing Consultant, Long-Term Care Southern Assisted Living

"I am so proud, and I love Adaline, whom I call 'Great Nine.' This book is so good and so detailed.--Penn Carter, Marsha Hill's Grandson, Age 8

"This powerful new memoir is at once a tribute to a beloved mother who died at the height of a global crisis and a clarion call for all of us to look with fresh eyes upon how we take care of one another. Especially our elderly. Surrounded by her devoted family and a barrage of chaotic regulations, Hill dares to take us right into the heart of those terrifying pandemic days as she lays bare the loss and lessons we must all face if we are to do better. Written in vivid prose and with heartbreaking honesty, Grief and Grit(s) is a testament to love and healing, a cri de coeur for our times."--Martin Moran, OBIE and Lambda Award Winner, Author of The Tricky Part and All the Rage

"Grab a cup of coffee, sit in a comfortable chair, and let Marsha Gray Hill tell you her story as if she is seated across from you, talking only to you. You will laugh, you will cry, you will get angry, you will be right there in some of the most intimate moments in the life of the most-godliest person I have ever known. Adaline Gray's legacy will live on through every person her life touched. If you met her, you were never the same. Listen closely as Marsha shares with you the final years, and especially weeks and days, of Adaline's life. I hope it makes you angry, angry enough to do something, even if it's just in your family."--Jeff Daughtry, Adaline Gray's Pastor, 1992-2000

"Grief and Grit(s) is an intimate account of a daughter's journey through love and loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. Marsha Hill's heartfelt memoir explores family, aging, and caregiving, offering essential insights for those facing similar challenges. Grief and Grit(s) is a powerful reflection of the power of love, the beauty of life, and a hopeful outlook on the future."--Tim Richerson, Former President, Rexall Sundown

"I have known Marsha Hill and her family for over five decades, and it's been a privilege to witness their journey. Marsha's book, Grief and Grit(s), offers deep insights into the challenges we face as our loved ones age. She courageously confronts the shortcomings in our society's treatment of the elderly, particularly during a pandemic. Marsha's book challenges us all to do better and be better in caring for our elders. It's a profound read that encourages us to reflect on the way we treat the most revered members of our society."--Rev. Chris Singleton

"Marsha Hill's Grief and Grit(s) is an incredibly moving exploration of love, loss, and resilience in the face of the pandemic's heart-wrenching early days. Her powerful storytelling offers a relatable and compassionate guide to navigating grief, while urging society to better care for one another during times of profound uncertainty and sorrow. A truly exceptional read that will inspire you long after the last page."--Darci Phillips, M.D., PhD

"Marsha's heartfelt narrative is a beautiful tribute to her mother and a call to action for society to reevaluate how we care for our aging population. Grief and Grit(s) is a moving exploration of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit."--Dr. Gina Loudon, Talk Show Host and Bestselling Author

"Truly a heartfelt, loving, and compelling book of a daughter's loss and whose faith helps her find the strength and courage to honor her mother's legacy in the shadow of a global travesty."--Dr. Linda M Roberts, Owner and Primary Physician at Synergy Sports Wellness & Performance

About the Author

Marsha Gray was born and raised in Kinston, North Carolina, before marrying her husband, Gregg, and becoming Mrs. Marsha Hill in 1976. Her adventurous life of raising five children alongside her eldest son's burgeoning professional tennis career included lots of love and way too many drives down I-95 in a massive Southwind camper.

Fifteen grandchildren later, Marsha is still a southern girl, splitting her time between Georgia and Florida. Her family is her pride and joy, and while caring for her mother throughout the COVID pandemic, she experienced firsthand what it's like to care for a deteriorating parent. This experience inspired her to become an advocate for compassion and human dignity.