Grief has a way of changing everything—and for many families in our community, it’s a reality they’re learning to live with each day. In the middle of that journey, a group called Common Ground is offering something simple but powerful: a place to come together, share, and be reminded that no one has to walk through loss alone.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart recently sat down with Kathy Wantland, Kathleen Swanger, and Wendi Lahmon—three women who know that journey firsthand and are now helping others navigate it together.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation!
Common Ground is a support group that meets the second Tuesday of every month, focused on those grieving the loss of loved ones—especially parents who have lost children. The group began last year after Kathy Wantland lost her son. In the midst of her own grief, she felt a calling to create a space where others could come together, share, and simply not feel alone.
Kathleen Swanger, a licensed social worker with a background in hospice care, helped shape that vision. Having walked through the loss of her own son, Kevin, nearly 5 years ago, she understood the importance of connection. She shared that one of the biggest needs in grief is knowing that someone else understands—because every story is different, but the pain is something many share.
Wendi Lahmon echoed that sentiment. After losing both her husband, Tim, and her son Ryan, she says the support she’s found has been essential. She shared Ryan’s story—how he pushed through life after a devastating construction accident left him paralyzed, how he rebuilt his life in Florida, and how unexpectedly, a pulmonary embolism took him far too soon. Wendi was there through those final moments, and she says the days that followed were filled with both heartbreak and incredible support from others.
That’s what Common Ground is all about.
It’s a place where people can come as they are—where it’s okay to cry, okay to be vulnerable, and okay to not have all the answers. The group emphasizes confidentiality and compassion. There’s no pressure to speak—just the opportunity to listen, to share, and to be surrounded by people who truly understand.
Faith has also played a role for many in the group. Kathleen shared how prayer and reading the Psalms helped carry her through the darkest days, reminding her that even in loss, there is still purpose. Wendi admitted there were moments of anger in her grief—but even in those moments, she found that God never left her.
The support doesn’t stop at the monthly meetings. Kathy also offers additional connection opportunities, including a summer restaurant gathering (currently on break) and personal conversations for anyone who needs to talk. She emphasizes that grief can feel isolating—but it doesn’t have to be.
The next Common Ground meeting is set for May 12th at 6 p.m. at Newlife Community Church, located at 9955 Mount Gilead Road in Fredericktown. There’s no sign-up required—just show up.
Beyond the group, these women are also helping bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention. A 5K/10K run is planned for September 12th at 5 p.m. at Ariel Park, followed by a memorial to honor lives lost and remind others that help is available. They’re also involved in community outreach events like First Fridays and the Rod Masters Car Show, where proceeds go toward suicide awareness efforts.
At its heart, Common Ground is exactly what the name suggests—a place where people can meet in the middle of their grief, find connection, and begin to heal together.
Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can hear is this: you’re not alone.
Click HERE on how you can find out more through the New Life Community Church in Fredericktown.
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