Grandma

@convivialVillage7837

It is hard to lose anyone and even if a person has illness and conditions that would make death more likely it still is a sting when it happens .....

to be honest i have lost people suddenly in accident and people who lingered in illness and the waiting for it person was always harder on me then the sudden unexpected.

@convivialVillage7837

Hi, Shannon!

I'm so sorry to hear about your grandmother's passing, and I want you to know that this Community is here to listen and support you through this difficult time. Losing a loved one is never easy, and when it's someone who has been a part of your life for so long, the pain can feel overwhelming.

Your grandmother went through the terrible challenges of Alzheimer's disease, and it must have been incredibly tough for both her and your family to witness her struggle with it over the years. It can be heart-wrenching to watch someone you care about gradually lose their memory and sense of self. You and your family have been on this difficult journey for years, which must have been emotionally draining and exhausting.

It's a testament to your love for your grandmother that you were there for her throughout it all, all these years.

The suddenness of her passing due to sepsis must have been a terrible shock, even if your family had been preparing for her eventual passing. In these moments, it's natural to experience a whirlwind of emotions, and there's no right or wrong way to feel. Grief is a complex process, and it can hit us in unexpected ways.

Grieving might be exhausting, both emotionally and physically. I encourage you to take some time for yourself and allow yourself to grieve in your own way. Everyone copes with loss differently, so it's essential to honor your unique emotions and reactions. It might help to talk as much as possible to your family members about your feelings and share memories of your grandmother, as these conversations can be a comforting way to connect and remember her.

You are invited to do the same here, writing in this Forum about your emotions, how they evolve, and about your grandmother, how you remember her, and what you miss most about her.

Honoring her memory is very important and healthy, in any way that feels meaningful to you and your family. Sharing stories, photos, and memories can be a beautiful way to remember and celebrate the person she was.

Also, don't forget to take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Try to get enough rest, eat nourishing meals, and engage in activities that bring you comfort and peace. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can also provide a great source of comfort and strength. All of this can help you manage your grief and find moments of peace amidst the pain.

Grief can be a long and winding road, and it doesn't follow a fixed timeline. There may be moments when you feel overwhelmed by sadness, anger, or even feeling grateful as you recall fond memories. These feelings are all part of the grieving process, and it's important to give yourself permission to experience any of them.

It's okay to lean on others for support during this time. Your feelings are valid, and you don't have to go through this alone. This Community is here to listen whenever you need to express your emotions, whether it's about your grandmother, your grief, or anything else that's on your mind. Your well-being is important, and you have our support as you navigate this difficult journey.

Allow yourself to feel the emotions as they come, whether it's sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief. Your feelings are valid, and there's no timeline for when you should "move on."

Grief doesn't have an expiration date, and it's a journey that unfolds at its own pace. As the days and weeks pass, you'll likely find moments of peace and acceptance amidst the pain.

Your grandmother will always hold a special place in your heart, and the love you shared will continue to live on in your memories forever.