As Samantha* sat, surrounded by her family who showed up to offer their condolences, her cell phone buzzed. Assuming it was another friend reaching out upon hearing her devastating news, she picked up the phone to reply with the lines that had now become routine,...
Although it’s been five years, Melissa* vividly recalls the “talk” a close friend had with her: “I know you’re widowed now but I just want you to know that my husband sees you only as a sister,” said the girlfriend Melissa once considered family. As Melissa stared at...
It’s often said there is no word in the dictionary that describes a parent who has lost a child. I’ve also discovered there isn’t an official name for someone whose boyfriend has died. Since starting an online support group to give other young widows/widowers a safe...
It’s often said that hindsight is 20/20. By looking back, we’re able to see a situation with clarity and observe the missteps we may have taken. A member of the Young, Widowed & Dating Support Group recently shared her story. Her post was so detailed that she...
When you’re in the midst of a storm, it’s hard to tell which way to go. You’re getting battered and you don’t know when the downpour will let up or even if the sun will ever emerge from the dark clouds. For many people who are widowed, the first year can be especially...
