Grief
The Most Important Calling
Darren's expertise in business and personal development has made him a sought-after speaker at conferences throughout the financial sector. However, it was the devastating loss of his fourteen-year-old son, Estevan Kane Sugiyama, that revealed Darren’s most important calling. This unimaginable tragedy became the catalyst for his deepest work—supporting other parents navigating the aftermath of losing a child.
Life After Love
Darren and his wife Emilia have since launched a 501(c)3 charitable foundation called Life After Love - The Estevan Kane Sugiyama Foundation whose mission statement is to offer essential support, resources, and a community for individuals who are rediscovering their identity after experiencing grief and loss. Darren has transformed his grief into a mission of hope, creating pathways for healing and connection among families facing similar losses.
Within just the first year following Estevan’s passing, Darren courageously stepped onto stages across the nation, sharing his story and wisdom with thousands. From Dallas and Chicago to Newport Beach and San Antonio, he has spoken at conferences in Texas, Illinois, California, and Vermont, while also reaching national audiences through multiple podcast appearances. His unique position as both a respected business leader and grieving father allows him to address this critical topic on unexpected platforms, reaching audiences who might not otherwise encounter resources for supporting grieving loved ones.
Grief Brain
Darren’s commitment to this mission continues to evolve. His forthcoming thirteenth book, Grief Brain – How To Show Up For A Grieving Loved One, scheduled for release in 2026, will serve as an essential emergency guide. This practical guide will equip readers with specific tools for supporting those in grief, teaching them what to say and what not to say, as well as what to do and what not to do when comforting someone experiencing profound loss.
Through Life After Love, Darren is creating a legacy that honors his son’s memory while providing tangible support to families walking the most difficult path imaginable. His work stands as a testament to the possibility of finding meaning and service in the midst of devastating loss, offering hope to parents who never imagined they could survive such pain, let alone help others through it.
For more information about Life After Love, you may visit: LifeAfterLove.org
