Living alone in France

Hello Fifinet

So sorry for your loss, it is a very difficult time for you and I can’t imagine what it is like being in another country and away from family at this time.  I lost my husband of 41 years almost 11 months ago (it doesn’t seem that long at all) and I don’t think I could have coped without my son and daughter who both live fairly close by.  I think we can all relate to that feeling of being lost, because that word describes the loss of our loved one so well.

My Mal battled his cancer for two years but previous to that he suffered with a debilitating liver condition and had been in poor health for many years, despite all of this we managed to live a fairly full life up until the last year where unfortunately everything pretty much caught up with him.  This last 11 months have been a roller coaster of emotions; sometimes I feel I am coping really well and then without warning I crumble into a sobbing wreck and hardly know which way is up …. generally though I think I am doing quite well.

All I can say really is that it does all become a little easier, I don’t think that feeling of loss will ever go away but gradually the good days outnumber the bad ones.  I’m glad you have your little cat to keep you company, I’ve been considering getting one myself as I’ve always been a ‘cat person’.

Hello Fifnet

I am part of Cancer Support France, who have associations all over France and support English speaking people and maybe you may consider contacting us as we offer one to one emotional support in total confidence. We have an association in the Dordogne. Our contact phone is 0800 240 200 or email helpline@cancersupportfrance.org 
Kind regards

Karen

Hello 

Just re reading your kind message and I wondered how you were doing today? I hope not too bad.

I feel very tired today, couldn't get myself up this morning and feel very lethargic. I have decided that's okay! It's okay not to be okay. Don't feel guilty about it either, we are all coping in our own way, with such a range of emotions, it is hardly surprising.

Well, just wanted to say hello and take care of yourself.

Hugs Fifinet

Dear Fifinet,

Thank you, I’ve  had a good few days although I slept very badly last night waking several times, but this has become less of the norm recently.  I miss my husband so much and my little house seems vast and empty without him, which is depressing.  I know that I am not alone in these feelings and take comfort from others on here by simply knowing that this is pretty much how it is for everyone.  I hope you are doing well and receiving comfort and support from friends (and also your little pet cat).