Hello- I’m Candice, author of Motbits.com a blog with Tidbits for Mother’s of Twins, where I enjoy sharing knowledge I have gained from my experiences. From some recent experiences, I gained something I wanted to share that had nothing to do with being a mother of twins. The ladies here at “Or so she says…” are kind to let me share this with you.
This is my family trying to pose for a picture. It’s hard with 2 toddlers!
I’ve had 2 people very close to me pass away recently. My father passed away 3 years ago at age 53, from complications of Myelodysplastic Syndrome, (a blood disorder) and my father-in-law, age 54, died a few weeks ago from pancreatic cancer. Like many of you, I have not enjoyed the loss of these loved ones, but I was so completely overwhelmed with the kindness that people showed to my family and my in-laws at these times. It seemed like there was a fly on the wall that heard our conversations and knew exactly what we needed.
A lot of people aren’t sure what to do for friends who have have lost loved ones. Here are some things that people have done for us that were really helpful and kind.
Food-When these family members passed away, it was great to have food brought so it was not something we had to worry about. My father died in the hospital. We had been there for almost 3 days. After he passed way, we returned to my parent’s house both tired and hungry. Some ladies in the neighborhood had prepared lunch for us when we got there. It was just what we needed. Food is appreciated on the days of the viewing and funeral also.
Helpful Acts and Things to Bring-There is so much to think about after the death of a loved one. Helpful acts included the following:
- Cleaned the house, did the dishes or shoveled snow/did yard work. (In our case, we were so focused on the health of our dad, that the organization of the home was not a priority.)
- Pictures and other items representing the person were gathered to display at the viewing/funeral.
- All of the young children were babysat during funeral planning and the funeral.
- People asked if they could run errands or pick up items from the grocery store we needed.
Helpful things people brought:
- Paper plates, cups and utensils
- Thank you cards and postage stamps
- Boxes of Tissue
Gifts- Many people were sensitive to the needs of our family. One of our funerals was covered completely by life insurance and the other was not. We couldn’t believe how generous people were. Someone even paid for the burial plots. This is not expected, BUT even small things were greatly appreciated. Many people give flowers, but I think there are other things that were more thoughtful:
- Calming, peaceful music
- My coworkers gave me a gift certificate for a night out with my husband.
- We were grateful for the donations given to the charities mentioned in the obituaries
- Money to cover funeral costs or medical expenses.
- Letters containing any special memories with those who have passed.
A few things to keep in mind:
- The talents and skills of others were used to help out. (It was such a blessing to have a lawyer friend help with the will and all the legal things. The funeral director was close friends with my father-in-law and offered many services.)
- SHORT visits were appropriate and appreciated.
- Many people don’t know what to say. We truly felt LISTENING IS MUCH MORE IMPORTANT THEN TALKING!
- Don’t say, “I know how you feel”, “I totally understand”, or “It will be okay”.
- Remember visits and phone calls after the funeral are still greatly needed.
We felt many people were inspired to help us in our time of need. Whenever we were asked “What can I do for you?” we didn’t have an answer, but everything that was done proactively was exactly what we needed.
-Candice
I am so sorry for your losses but this post will come in VERY helpful to many!!! THANK YOU for sharing! Merry Christmas
THANK YOU for sharing!
Work from home India
Perfect post idea and suggestions! Thanks so much, Candice! I’m truly sorry about the losses you have had.
My best friend passed away several years ago, we were closer than most sisters are…so, it was pretty hard. But, a few things I appreciated:
1. A friend to just stay with me…I didn’t need people to say anything. It just brought me comfort to have a loved one just sitting by me, laying next to me, hugging me, holding my hand, etc.
2. I loved when I would still be greeted with a cheery attitude. I didn’t WANT to be sad all the time so it was a relief to be approached by someone who didn’t feel like they needed to be sad because they were around me.
3. My favorite gift was a plant. Maybe because I LOVE plants anyway, but it is something I have kept alive in my home and have invested lots of care into it. That plant is really special to me and reminds me that I can continue to grow, just as my sweet friend is continuing to blossom and grow in heaven. I’m anxious to see her again and exchange stories of everything that has been happening without each other!
Anyway, I also think its also important for those who HAVE lost loved ones to not get so offended by the actions or words of others…especially because their intentions are usually good! Most people don’t know what to say or do…so, give ’em a break and realize that they do mean well.
Real downer-subject, but really important. Thanks again, Candice!
This was an email I was sent today:
Your post today was really thoughtful for this time when everyone is celebrating.
We lost my dad a few week ago on Dec. 8th and our hearts are broken. Until it happens to you,
you don’t know what loss truly means. I think people need lots of support
for a long time because it doesn’t even feel real right away. I appreciate your support for all the
people in this same situation. Every little thing helps and I wish you continued healing in the new year.
I don’t have a blog and I don’t know how to post comments so hope this is okay.
Best wishes,
Lauralee in NY
At such a happy time of year this is something we don’t often think about, but in the last week 2 of my friends have lost parents or grandparents. My heart has gone out to them but there is always that question of what to do for them.
A few years ago I was engaged and shortly before the wedding my fiancés brother committed suicide. It was a horrifically devastating time in my life. The best thing anyone did for me was being there and listening. After the initial shock just going out and doing normal things was what I needed. What a hard subject but what a great post full of useful advice.
Candice- I’m so sorry about your family’s losses, I think you did a great job!
You put everything perfectly. We lost my mother-in-law a few years ago from breast cancer. It was tough for all of us, but many people stepped up in the ways you described. It is a nice reminder of how to help others.
Thanks!