Coping With Death.

Hello RIVERBOAT ,

I’m sorry to hear about your wife passing away, it sounds like there was such a lot going on for you, with your wife’s health and moving to be nearer her family, as well as your own health. It is good to hear that your lung cancer is stable and is being monitored.

You mention that there are so many jobs that need doing and you get on and try to blank out what has happened, this is understandable as sometimes our minds go into practical mode, so we don’t have to face the emotion of what has happened and what is happening right now. You mention feeling no emotion, but you have said you think you feel guilt for not being with her longer – it’s natural to feel guilt. We often look at how things have happened and wonder if things had been different, I am sure that your wife knew you did all that you could for her and no matter the amount of time you were with her, you were there for her final moments and I hope that is of some comfort to you, that she knew you were there when it mattered the most.

Have you reached out for support before RIVERBOAT ? I wonder if looking at some of our support options would be beneficial? I would encourage for you to have a read through our  Support with grief | Macmillan Cancer Support guidance as well as looking at our Bereaved family forum where you can reach out to speak to others who are going through similar experiences.

I feel it is worth mentioning Cruse Bereavement Care, who provide specialist support for understanding grief. Cruse also has a dedicated bereavement helpline where you can speak to their trained volunteers by calling 0808 808 1677 they are available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 9.30am-5pm, Tuesday: 1pm – 8pm and are closed Saturday and Sunday.

We are also here to support you RIVERBOAT  you are welcome to reply to this post, or contact our helpline on 0808 808 0000 to speak to our support advisors about what is happening for you just now. We also have  Online chat for if you would like to reach out in a more discreet way as well as being available by Email – we are here 7 days a week 8am-8pm providing a listening ear, a place to talk through how you are feeling, should you need to.