008 - Betsy Stover from Ele's Place 041726

In this heartfelt episode of Michigan Insider, host Sam reflects on his personal journey of grief following the loss of his daughter London, using the experience to spotlight Ellie's Place, a nonprofit founded by Betsy and Woody Stover after they lost their daughter Ellie in 1991. Betsy shares the origin story of Ellie's Place, emphasizing its mission to support children and families grieving the death of a loved one through weekly peer groups and parent support circles, with services offered free of charge across Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids. The episode centers on the upcoming Derby Day Soiree on May 2nd at Revel Run in Chelsea, a major fundraiser featuring a derby viewing, dinner, auctions, dancing, and a festive dress code with hats and bow ties. Sam and Betsy urge listeners to attend, donate, volunteer, or spread awareness, highlighting that Ellie's Place offers critical emotional support during life’s most difficult moments—acting as a kind of 'insurance policy' for families facing tragedy. The conversation is deeply moving, blending personal loss with community resilience and hope.