How to cope with the loss of a loved one on Mother’s Day

Most of us will at some point in our lives experience the death of someone close, and this can be the most devastating and overwhelming experience that will ever happen to us.

As Mother’s day approaches and there are constant reminders of this special occasion, it’s a time where bereaved people can often feel a renewed sense of grief as they can’t spend the day celebrating with their mum.

With this in mind, Lucinda Gomiciaga, bereavement care co-ordinator at Prospect Hospice says, “Our lives are usually built around the people we share them with and the loss of someone close to us can turn that world upside down, leaving an empty space in our lives. It is natural to experience strong feelings as you struggle to make sense and accept the reality of your loss.

“Everyone will have their own special way in which they will remember their mum on Mother’s Day and each person’s experience of loss will be different and unique to them. I think an important thing is to remember to be gentle with yourselves and those around you, knowing that it may be tough and could be very sad and that is ok.

“My hope is that each person who is grieving the loss of their loved one this Mother’s Day, is able to find a way to remember them and hold the love in their heart. Some ways that can help you can remember is to perhaps write your thoughts and feelings down in a card, light a candle or share precious memories of your loved one with family and friends. One really meaningful and lasting way to remember someone is to make a memory box where you choose treasures that remind you of that special person.”

A Prospect Hospice memory leaf is also a wonderful way to remember someone special. Each leaf can be individually engraved with a dedication and the leaf is then hung on our memory tree situated in our remembrance garden at the hospice.

However, you will be remembering your mum this Sunday, here at Prospect Hospice we will be thinking of you all on Mother’s Day this year and along with the sadness we hope you can recall a memory that brings a fond smile to your face.

Further information

Prospect Hospice has an experienced and dedicated bereavement and family support team which is available to support families and friends of those patients who have received the support of the hospice’s services. For those people who have not been known to Prospect Hospice, the charity is always happy to support and signpost you to other local or national bereavement services.

If you need support at this time, we have some useful information on our website to help you following a loss www.prospect-hospice.net/bereavement-how-might-you-feel/ or should you need to, you can contact the team by calling 01793 816127 or emailing bereavementcare@prospect-hospice.net.