Christine Dawood is embarking on a new and meaningful venture as she channels her grief into a philanthropic project following the tragic loss of her husband, Shahzada, and her son, Suleman, in the Titan sub disaster of June 2023. The 51-year-old psychologist has detailed her heart-wrenching experience in a memoir titled *Ninety-Six Hours*, where she reflects on the familial bond and the unimaginable tragedy that unfolded when the submersible they were on imploded while exploring the wreck of the Titanic.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/christine-dawood-100526-1-365437b7297e408ca40fabb62905ffa5.jpg)
In a recent interview, Christine expressed her determination to honour the memory of her family by establishing a grief and trauma centre, named the Pathway of Light, in southwest England, specifically in Devon near Dartmoor. She believes this centre will be a vital resource for individuals in need, offering a safe space for healing and community support. “It gives me the reason to get up in the morning,” she remarked, emphasising the importance of finding purpose amidst her trauma.
The planned centre is intended to combine traditional therapeutic methods with modern medicine and technology, creating a comprehensive approach to healing. Christine mentioned that she hopes to commence renovations on the property, which she describes as a “hidden gem,” by early 2024. “It will be residential and a clinic,” she explained. “We are bringing together different healing modalities to help you heal from trauma and grief and to start living again.”
Christine hopes that through Pathway of Light, individuals coping with loss will have access to the support they need. Her personal experience of grief has informed her vision for the centre. “You can’t do it alone. Nor should you,” she asserted, highlighting the necessity of community in the healing process. She added, “I have been very blessed with having an amazing family and really good friends, but I also know not everybody has that.”
In *Ninety-Six Hours*, Christine chronicles the harrowing events of that fateful day, sharing her perspective as the family faced unthinkable tragedy. While she was initially meant to join her husband and son on the ill-fated expedition, she opted out at the last moment. This decision has cast a long shadow over her grief, underscoring the cruel nature of fate. “Now the book is out, I have started a new chapter, which is finding new purpose,” she commented, reinforcing her commitment to use her platform to help others.
Christine emphasised the importance of community in navigating grief, stating that collective support is essential. “When I was really down, I needed help,” she reflected, acknowledging the isolation that often accompanies profound loss. She hopes Pathway of Light will serve as both a sanctuary and a beacon for those grappling with their own sorrow.
The funding for the centre will be supported by a foundation established in the names of her late husband and son, ensuring that their legacy lives on through acts of compassion and kindness. Christine’s philanthropic work is a testament to her belief that healing is not about “moving on” but about moving forward with the memory of loved ones held close. “I am not fond of the phrase ‘moving on,’” she said, asserting her desire to continue her family’s spirit of care and generosity.
As Christine forges ahead, she is determined to create a nurturing environment where people can begin the process of healing. Her vision for Pathway of Light is not simply a professional undertaking but an emotional journey inspired by love and remembrance. Through her efforts, she aims to honour Shahzada and Suleman while helping others to restore hope and find meaning in their lives after loss.
In the face of unspeakable grief, Christine Dawood stands as a beacon of resilience and empathy, paving the way for others to embark on their own healing journeys. Through her writing and the establishment of a dedicated centre for trauma and grief support, she exemplifies the power of community and compassion in overcoming the darkest moments of life.