Breathing Light into Dark Places

Written By PS Team

What does it look like to raise a family anchored in faith when life takes an unexpected turn? Diane Nienas, grief coach, author, and mother of four, joins Jim and Meghan to share how two decades of caretaking for her sons Leo and Trent became the very ground where her faith took root and flourished. With joy that can only come from God, Diane reflects on the miracles, the grace, and the quiet moments that transformed her family and have since brought hope to countless others.

What’s in this episode:

  • Leo's remarkable life and the faith that defied every medical expectation

  • Suffering as the doorway to a deep and personal friendship with Christ

  • Leo's miraculous conversations with Jesus throughout his childhood and youth

  • Joy as a daily choice and the freedom that comes from choosing it

  • The moment Leo foretold Trent's diagnosis before any doctor confirmed it

  • Encouragement for caregivers on living fully in the present moment

  • Rest, renewal, and grounding as gifts every caregiver must receive

  • How Leo's witness brought friends and family to a living faith in God

  • Diane's memoir and children's book series born from her family's journey

  • Writing and speaking as Diane's mission to carry God's story to others

  • One resource every Catholic family should know: FORMED

  • Book she is currently reading: The Way of Wisdom by Lifeway

  • Advice to her younger self: Do not let fear keep you from moving into what you were wanting to pursue

  • Final wisdom for listeners: Where your focus lies, your life will be led

Resources Mentioned:

www.dianenienas.com – Diane's website with links to her books, social media, and speaking

I See Jesus – Diane's memoir about Leo and Trent's journeys and Leo's conversations with Christ

Living Life with Leo – A four-part children's book series celebrating Leo's adventures and limitless spirit

FORMED – Catholic streaming platform with movies, studies, and children's content

The Way of Wisdom by Lifeway – A Bible study through the Book of Proverbs offering a fresh perspective on wisdom

PS Team
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Designing the Domestic Church