There can be nothing more heartbreaking than losing a loved one. The pain and devastation it has is profound and those closed to the deceased are left dealing with the grief that follows. So being there to console and offer sympathy for those who have experienced a loss is important. But it can be so … Read more
If you know someone who has lost a loved one then you are probably aware that sending a sympathy card is a kind thing to do. But you might also be wondering: what is a sympathy card? Not everyone is absolutely sure what a sympathy card is and why you should send one. Or where … Read more
After you’ve lost your mom and her birthday comes around it can be really difficult. Although the grief of losing a parent never passes it does lessen with time. But when those big days that you would have celebrated with your mom – birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas etc. – arrive it can bring that grief and … Read more
If when an obituary is written the family would prefer an alternative to flowers – a gift, donation to charity etc.- then the phrase “in lieu of flowers” is used. But as it’s not a phrase that is very well known it is often misinterpreted to mean don’t send flowers, rather than what the family … Read more
When talking about bereavement and loss “sympathy” is a commonly used word. For example – “we offer or extend our sympathy to someone for their loss”. But what exactly is sympathy? What is the difference between empathy and sympathy? And how can understanding those differences help with the way we support and are there for … Read more
When someone you know has to go into a hospice it can be a scary and upsetting time. Sadly a hospice is where those who are terminally ill are looked after, which means they won’t be coming home. That means you’re talking to someone who is coming to the end of their life. Knowing the … Read more
When someone faces a serious or terminal illness then the care of a doctor is invaluable. They do all they can to try and help our loved ones or friends get better. Unfortunately that isn’t always possible. And although doctors give their all they can’t save everyone. But even if your loved one passes away … Read more
When giving a sympathy gift after someone has suffered a loss you may find yourself worrying about the correct etiquette. What’s appropriate, what isn’t, can I give money, when should I send it etc. Navigating what’s acceptable and what’s not can be difficult. Sending a gift after a loss is a lovely gesture but you … Read more
Sending or writing condolences is an incredibly hard thing to do. You have to try and find the words to show how sorry you are for losing someone special to them. And let’s be honest – what words could possibly hope to do that? It is impossible to think a few sentences expressing your sadness … Read more
To many people a job becomes more than just the way they earn their money. It’s an integral part of their identity, giving them a sense of achievement and worth. So when someone loses their job it can be devastating. It can lead to real unhappiness and depression. And in those tough times what people … Read more