Coming to terms with losing Mum

On Sunday 12th July, my beautiful, courageous Mum lost her battle with brain cancer. She was being nursed at home by my Dad, myself and my brother and sister. A care team also came in throughout the day. We were fortunate enough to have her home and were able to spend precious time with her and tell her how much we loved her. Her passing was difficult, but we were all stood with her and I held her hand. I had always wanted to share a concert dvd with her when she was home, but I knew it would be too difficult, as  the songs would make me cry. When Mum was in her final hours we played it for her, so that she had a peaceful, calm environment and we dimmed the lights. 
I am truly heartbroken. My love for her was and is unconditional, She meant everything to me, I have kept myself busy the last two weeks, arranging Mum's funeral, which was yesterday. It went perfectly and the sun shone brightly ithrough the chapel window.

Everyone thinks that I am coping tremendously well, as I appear outwardly to be strong. I feel like I have been grieving since the day I was told of Mum's terminal diagnosis. My husband has told me to stay in bed all day today and rest. I know Mum would want me to carry on and live my life, but I honestly feel like part of me died two weeks ago too. I also lost my Grandma three years ago on the 13th July 2017. I knew Grandma would come for Mum. They were both the most inspirational women I have ever known. I'm lucky enough to be at home for the next four weeks, so I have time to grieve. Does it ever get easier? I feel like I've become a different person. I'm just trying to make sense of the situation. I have no anger, I do believe Mum was needed elsewhere. She knew how much I loved her and I'd like to think I made her life happy and made her proud. 
Would appreciate any advice on how to cope through these early days, or if someone else is experiencing a recent loss, 

Thank you in advance ️
Sarah x

Parents
  • Hi Sarah,

     

    I'm so sorry for your loss, I understand how heartbreaking it is to lose your mum. I lost my mum on the 4th May 2020, 6 days before my 22nd birthday, so I feel like everything I wanted to experience with my mum in future has been taken away from me. I can't imagine how difficult brain cancer itself must have been to experience, but my mum did have lung cancer which spread to the brain, which was so challenging. I'm sorry to hear you lost your grandma three years ago as well, but perhaps it is comforting to think your mum and grandma are together now. 

     

    It's been nearly three months since I lost my mum and for me it's been a rollercoaster of emotions. I've never had a problem coming to terms with it but there will be moments where I feel angry she's gone or I just need to have a good cry, and I think that's alright. I relate when you say your mum would want you to carry on, but she would know how strong you're being and she'll be proud of you for just getting through each day.  

     

    I've found that speaking to other people who have experienced loss can help, so coming on this forum is a good first step. Just sharing feelings with people who understand and know what to say can be very cathartic process.

     

    I hope this helped in some way. Take care of yourself and just take it one step at a time  ️ X

Reply
  • Hi Sarah,

     

    I'm so sorry for your loss, I understand how heartbreaking it is to lose your mum. I lost my mum on the 4th May 2020, 6 days before my 22nd birthday, so I feel like everything I wanted to experience with my mum in future has been taken away from me. I can't imagine how difficult brain cancer itself must have been to experience, but my mum did have lung cancer which spread to the brain, which was so challenging. I'm sorry to hear you lost your grandma three years ago as well, but perhaps it is comforting to think your mum and grandma are together now. 

     

    It's been nearly three months since I lost my mum and for me it's been a rollercoaster of emotions. I've never had a problem coming to terms with it but there will be moments where I feel angry she's gone or I just need to have a good cry, and I think that's alright. I relate when you say your mum would want you to carry on, but she would know how strong you're being and she'll be proud of you for just getting through each day.  

     

    I've found that speaking to other people who have experienced loss can help, so coming on this forum is a good first step. Just sharing feelings with people who understand and know what to say can be very cathartic process.

     

    I hope this helped in some way. Take care of yourself and just take it one step at a time  ️ X

Children
  • Hi Zen, 

    Thank you so much for your reply and advice. I'm so sorry to hear that you also lost your Mum too. The last two days have been particularly tough. I think the realisation is kicking in. I've been to Mum's grave several times this week, just to feel close to her. 
    I think once I'm back at work again, then I'll be very busy and it will take my mind off the situation. I honestly don't know how I'm holding it together at the moment. Mum was my best friend. 
    I agree that talking helps. My husband has been amazing and my two children. 
    I am going to spend  the next few weeks being kind to myself and I'll come and chat on here if things get tough. 
    Sending strength to you as well, it's so hard. I feel Mum has been taken way too soon. I take comfort knowing that she's back with my Grandma. 
    Thank you for your kindness 

    Sarah x