Support for Bereaved Parents

The death of a child, young or old, is the worst thing which can happen to a parent. It tears your heart out and changes your life forever. I call it a life sentence, where every day you're led to the gallows or chair or chamber, only to be told at the last minute that it's been postponed until tomorrow. And you start again. A mother and father can provide support to each other, but even then it's still so much a personal thing. I don't know if we could have done it alone, but I'm thankful we didn't have to. Compassionate Friends is a support group for bereaved parents. It was formed by bereaved parents who realized that no one would ever understand their pain, loneliness, confusion, heartache, and helplessness except for other parents who had lost their children. Local chapters are available in many communities, and each is led by bereaved parents. There is acceptance of all bereaved parents, without regard for how the loss occurred. There is no pressure to do or say anything. Many unfortunate newcomers will spend the first few meetings in tears or silence. I'm an old timer, losing Melanie on 9/20/2009, and a newcomer, losing Jennifer on 7/16/2011, and I often cry through much of the meetings myself. No one can fix us, but we can all provide support and sympathy for each other, when so often, our families and friends just don't know how to. You can look for a local chapter here:

http://www.compassionatefriends.org

They also have a wealth of resources to comfort and educate you. There's no magic, and there's no cure. But there is comfort and friendship. The local Hospice is another resource. You don't have to do this alone. There are others who love you and want to provide just a little comfort to you.