When Sophia Donald was just five years old, her world changed forever. Her father passed away suddenly from a heart attack, leaving her family reeling. As a little girl, Sophia didn’t fully understand what had happened, but she knew her life would never be the same.

Growing up in Memphis, Sophia was fortunate to attend the Center for Good Grief, a program that offered her the space and tools to process her emotions. One person in particular made a lasting impact—her counselor, Angela. Angela’s warmth and encouragement created a safe environment where Sophia could explore her feelings and start to heal.

Angela introduced Sophia to activities that helped her express her emotions—crafting memory jars, writing heartfelt letters to her dad, and journaling through her hardest days. These activities not only helped Sophia work through her grief but also inspired her to create something meaningful for other kids.

Years later, as a freshman in high school, Sophia poured everything she had learned into writing Lemons to Lemonade: A Grief Workbook. Packed with creative activities, crafts, and journaling prompts, the workbook serves as a guide to help grieving kids navigate their emotions and find hope again.

A Book Full of Possibilities

The Lemons to Lemonade Workbook is designed to be a hands-on resource. Each page offers children a way to process their feelings, honor their loved ones, and discover resilience. Inside its pages, kids will find:

• Sophia’s Story: Personal reflections that show grieving kids they’re not alone.
• Creative Activities: Memory jars, letter-writing exercises, and other projects that help kids express their emotions.
• Journaling Prompts: Space to write about their loved ones, reflect on their memories, and explore their feelings.
• Encouraging Messages: Positive affirmations and advice to guide kids toward healing.

Sophia reflects, “I wanted the workbook to feel like a friend—someone who understands what you’re going through. These activities helped me when I needed them most, and I hope they can do the same for other kids.”

From Workbook to Movement

What started as a simple idea quickly grew into something much larger. After sharing her vision with her friend Avery Lind, who had also lost a parent, the two girls realized they could create a community to support grieving kids in Orange County. The workbook became the spark for the Lemons to Lemonade Grief Camp, and eventually, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that continues to grow today.

Why It Matters

The Lemons to Lemonade Workbook is more than just a book—it’s a lifeline. By combining crafts, journaling, and creative activities, it gives kids the tools they need to process their grief in a way that feels approachable and comforting. It’s a resource that meets kids where they are, showing them that their emotions are normal, and that they can find hope in their healing journey.

Sophia’s story is proof that even in the face of heartbreak, there’s room for light and connection. Through her workbook and the growing Lemons to Lemonade movement, she’s helping kids turn life’s sour lemons into something sweet.