WINK News Spotlights Valerie’s House Teen in Powerful Story of Grief and Hope

Valerie’s House is honored to be featured in a recent WINK News story that highlights the powerful journey of one of our high school seniors, Molly Flynn. The segment aired on April 30 and offered an intimate look into Molly’s experience with grief and how Valerie’s House has helped her find strength and direction in the wake of her father’s death.

Molly’s father, Michael Flynn, served in the United States Air Force and passed away unexpectedly in November 2023. Molly was in her junior year of high school when everything in her world changed.

"I stopped going to school. I couldn't get out of bed. I didn't want to do anything... I truly had no clue what the future looked like anymore," Molly shared in the interview.

Since then, Molly has been attending bi-weekly grief support groups at Valerie’s House, where she found a sense of belonging, connection, and healing.

"You feel something, and it doesn't feel right. But then someone else says, 'I feel that exact same way.' It just helps you breathe a little easier."

The WINK News segment was filmed during Valerie’s House’s College and Career Fair, where teens like Molly had the chance to hear from local professionals about their post-graduation options. WINK News meteorologist Lauren Kreidler was among the featured guests.

"With every success and every milestone, there's a little sadness attached to it. But you honor them instead of missing them," Molly said, reflecting on how she carries her dad’s memory forward.

Molly plans to graduate in May, attend FSW, and pursue esthetician school. She hopes to create a peaceful, healing environment for others—just as Valerie’s House has done for her.

"Seeing the community come together for us is the best thing ever... They show up for us every single group night and at events like this."

Watch the Full Story: Click here to view the WINK News feature