Hi, it's eKim
In my lifetime I have lost my Mom and Dad, a brother, a cousin, a sister, a sister-in-law, and a brother-in-law. The last 3 happened in 2020.
My wife of 51 years is in good health, as am I.
As a result, I cannot even imagine what you are going through. But I have you in my thoughts and prayers.
If it were to happen to me, I just know that I would be totally overwhelmed. I would need a lot of help - both from a professional therapist as well as in Group Grief sessions.
In addition, I would also depend on this forum of caring, compassionate souls who reach out to help others.
And this is despite the fact that for going on 11 years now, I have been a resident and family support volunteer at hospice in the psychosocial/spiritual area.
I am currently helping individuals who are grieving via phone. Also, I am assisting the group leader in Group Grief and Bereavement sessions.
Two Things:
In the 7 years or so that I have been on this forum as a "helper", I know that:
1) I am not allowed to give specific advice - only listen and give a helping hand. As it should be.
2) I am not allowed (and never, ever should) to proselytize my spiritual beliefs. I fully support people of all faiths and religions and spirituality. Also, I am good with no-theists - that describes most of my friends and family.
Having said that I must say that what has gotten me through has been my faith. I trust God for EVERYTHING. And (I'm in no hurry, of course) but when it is my time for transition, I am actually excited about reuniting with my loved ones - for eternity!
I notice religious/faith/spiritual sentiments in the above posts.
If anyone is interested in starting a separate thread that is based on faith and spirituality, let me know. I would be pleased to share in this area. Learning how the faith of other people acts to help them helps me.
- eKim