In part two of their interview, Troy and Deedra Russell discuss the far-reaching impact of their story. Troy shares how his home teacher’s persistent invitation to play basketball helped him navigate the "unrelenting" grief of losing their son, Austen. This experience of dedicated ministering was later shared by Elder Holland in General Conference, leading to a video viewed by millions.
Deedra recounts her journey through physical suffering following a catastrophic head-on collision. She details her 137-day hospital stay—matching Joseph Smith’s time in Liberty Jail—and complications from a kidney transplant that left her in "darkest despair". Dedra views her previous trials, including clinical depression and the loss of her mother, as "stepping stones" that prepared her to endure these later challenges.
Despite ongoing medical struggles, the Russells testify that Jesus Christ understands their specific mental and physical agony because of His suffering in Gethsemane. They describe their most difficult trials as "sacred holy ground" where they felt God’s presence most profoundly. Their message emphasizes that by keeping covenants, individuals can view their refining experiences with an eternal perspective.

Resources:

One-on-One - YouTube Video

A Saint Through the Atonement of Christ the Lord - Elder Holland talking about Deedra's car accident

Remember Lot's Wife - Elder Holland BYU Speech

Lessons from Liberty Jail - Elder Holland BYU Speech

Heavenly Answers for Earthly Questions - Book about a Near-Death Experience

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Welcome to the Grief and Belief podcast, where hosts David Mickelson and Kori Andrews interview Troy and Deedra Russell. The Russells share the tragic story of losing their son, Austen, when he was just nine years old after he was accidentally run over by Troy's truck in May 2015. Austen, the third of five children, was a beloved, fun-loving "phenom" athlete, especially talented in basketball, who had a special bond with his father over sports and with his mother when he was younger due to a severe speech impediment.
The Russell's recount the immediate, unrelenting grief that felt like a "house was just absolutely crushing me". Troy received a powerful revelation from Heavenly Father, affirming that he could keep the nine years he had with Austen, even if it meant enduring the pain. Deedra and Troy received numerous tender mercies, including Austen writing the scripture "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God" just days before he passed away, and their youngest daughter seeing "big Austen" (an adult-sized spirit) who performed a calming sign above their bed.
Their sorrow led to meaningful community outreach. Since Austen was known for his dedication to sports and the number three (which he adopted after BYU stars), the community created the logo AR3. They honored Austen by hosting a successful annual community event—an "Austen Russell birthday party"—for ten years, which features a court named Austen Russell Court. The Russells continue to focus on using this experience to strengthen their covenants and ensure they will be an eternal family with Austen again.Resources: One-on-One - YouTube Video

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Welcome to the Grief and Belief podcast. David and Kori interview Sandy Smith, a friend and experienced therapist. Sandy shares the story of her daughter, Stephanie, who passed away 35 years ago in 1990 at only 14 months old. Stephanie, the youngest of nine, was adored by her older siblings. Sandy recounts the traumatic moment Stephanie drowned in the family pool in Argentina, followed by the challenges of arranging her burial in Arizona.

Sandy focuses on the concept of the refiner's fire (Malachi 3:3). She explains that the Savior holds us in the "hottest part of the fire" but will not let us be destroyed. The refining process is complete when He sees His own countenance reflected in us. This refining experience led Sandy to become a mental health therapist, working in diverse settings, including running emotional groups for gang members in the prison system.

Sandy found that loss allows for personal growth, finding joy in creation through activities like music and pottery. She affirms there is life after loss and encourages others to choose happiness and growth. She testifies that Jesus Christ is her brother who loves her, offering peace and healing through the Atonement.

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