Hello Kirk66 and a warm welcome to Cancer Chat, 

I am so sorry for your loss. It doesn't matter what age we are, losing a loved one is a painful experience and it sounds like you and your dad were really close and he was a real inspiration to you. How sad that he passed away just a day before your birthday and it all happened so fast it must have been such a shock to you. 

That song by Gerry Rafferty will always remind you of your dad as it was his favourite song so it will always be a very special song for you which will understandably make you feel very emotional. I am sure many of our members will be able to relate to this and will also have a song, film, book or anything else that will have strong associations with their loved ones. 

I thought I would share with you our page on coping with grief where you will find out more about the range of feelings you might go through when you lose a loved one. Grief is very personal though and there is no right or wrong way to react. You have done the right thing though to come on this forum where you will be able to talk to others who have also lost a loved one to cancer and who understand what you are currently going through. 

We're thinking of you during this difficult time and wanted you to know that you are not alone. I will now let our members come and say hello and share their stories with you. 

Best wishes, 

Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hi Kirk66,

I'm so sorry for the loss of your dad. Coping with the loss of a parent hurts at any age and I completely understand. I lost my mum on the 17 January 2023 to bile duct cancer, I knew her chances were slim but I held onto the fact that she might get better. She had 3 surgeries in total and chemotherapy to prolong her life.
 

I am 31 years old and my mum was 64, she was my best friend and I miss her every single day. I cope by taking each day as it comes and going to visit my mum's grave. Also, doing activities that she loved in her memory helps me feel close to her. 

Everyone handles grief differently and it's okay to be sad. I understand that your dad was your hero and you shared a close bond. I hope you find comfort that your dad lives on in you and I'm sure he would want you to be happy and live life to the fullest. I know it's hard but take each day as it comes.

My thoughts and prayers are with you ️
 

Sarah x