All the Days After

Overview

A personal and revealing account of how it feels to be one of the many affected by a major natural disaster, and dealing with the resulting grief and loss

On Saturday, February 7, 2009, teacher Sue Gunningham waits impatiently in her car for news of her long-time partner Barry Johnston, who has been declared missing in the savage Australian bushfires that would come to be known as the "Black Saturday" fires. Little does she realize that the loss of her partner is just the beginning of her battle. She has to deal with the frantic search for him; the coroner, solicitors, and the funeral parlor to have Barry's remains identified and returned; continual rounds of formal interviews with police, case managers, psychologists, and the Victoria Bushfire Royal Commission; and trying to rebuild both the cottage and her life. Raw and compelling, All the Days After will resonate with anyone who has suffered through devastating grief.

Reviews

"With simple, powerful words, Sue Gunningham takes us with her on her journey of traumatic bereavement. . . I would like to congratulate Sue on not only her story and her courage, but the quality of her writing that carries an emotional impact to prevent detached reading and not sharing something of the experience.  She has so clearly described  her vulnerability and limitations that reveal the gap between the mind of the traumatised person and those trying to help." —Rob Gordon, clinical psychologist in disaster management

"All the Days After is not only compelling reading but a testament to the strength of the human spirit through unimaginable heartache. Sue's strength, courage, fortitude and infinite beauty are inspirational. It was a privilege to have walked a few steps with her on this journey." —Major Glenys Ford

Author Biography

Sue Gunningham develops and delivers financial literacy workshops to remote indigenous communities and disadvantaged groups in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Regions.