My father passed away Tuesday afternoon after his battle with cancer and other medical complications.
When he and my mother went in to the first appointment with his cancer doctor after he successfully made it through his first round of intensive chemo-radiation treatments and the doctor told him the cancer was not going away...but spreading...my mother told me the first words out of my father's mouth were "Well, what do you we do next? My daughter just got engaged and I have to be here for her wedding."
I know there are others out there who may have lost a loved one they were very close to, so I thought I might put together some advice on how to begin to conquer what may seem to be an insurmountable mountain of pain and grief.
5 Tips on How to Cope with Grief
My mother, Wade, and all of the dear friends who have offered a listening ear, words of support and encouragement, or even some homemade baked goodies--all of them are appreciated.
Just make sure you take the time to cry. The crying has to get out of the way to make room for the smiles you will be hoping for while recalling fond memories of yourself with your loved one.
These past few days, my mother and I both have made a point to continue to eat regularly, get as much rest as we can, and I've even been continuing my regular routine of exercises each day. The exercise videos and strength training workouts as well as the walks outdoors have aided in stress relief.
I suggested that my mother and I spend a good day baking up some homemade breads and cookies to give to those who have offered their helping hands in assorted ways with the passing of my father.
One example of how my mother and I are doing this is by having family and friends send donations to a local animal shelter in my dad's honor in lieu of flowers. Flowers die, but that money that is donated may help save an animal's life.
Another example is my mother and I are going to make a point to fish together more often. My dad would have been so proud we continue to fish because of what he taught us.
And I plan on living my life to the fullest with him fondly in my memories and forever in my heart.
I love, Dad. Always.
--Your Daughter
--Your Kaylin Ray