Long Hug Season is a writing space from me, Cassidy Quinn. I’m a former TV news lady, now in graduate school to become a mental health counselor. I’m also a late-blooming queer woman, a breast cancer survivor (on the days that title feels right), and a weirdo who apparently loves talking about grief, since losing my mom to suicide in 2021.

Whether you know me from any of those parts of my life, or just found me here while going through your own long hug season, I’m really glad you’re here.

This is a space where I process all the feelings that come with going through the shit - whether it’s losing a loved one, losing your boobs, getting sick, or navigating a life transformation. It’s a space for finding connection, meaning, and even humor in the mess of it all. You’ll find personal essays, reflections on mental health, moments of levity (yes, including pickles), and resources that have helped me along the way.

I believe in the power of storytelling, slowness, and being witnessed - especially during the seasons when we feel most alone. My hope is that this space offers a bit of companionship and a reminder that you’re not alone, even in the hardest moments.

If you’re new here, start with my first post to learn more about what Long Hug Season means.