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For grieving someone who is still here. Talk with people in Czechia who know what it is like, find help near you, and join the worldwide circle too. Free, always.
Next gathering in the Czechia circle: Weekly check-in ยท
โTo whoever needs this: I was in the same place nearly four years ago. I remember when guilt for wishing it was over, like it was yesterday. Last month I had people round for dinner. The bad days get further apart. One day at a time.โ
โI remember when Dad first got sick, I felt so alone. If you are starting this, know that the guilt you feel is normal. It does not make you a bad person. Find one person who gets it, even if it is someone online. And take photos of the good moments, even if they are rare. You will need them later. I am not going to say it is easy, but you can do it. I am here if you want to talk.โ
โIf you're just starting this, the one thing I'd say is: don't wait for the perfect moment to say what you need to say. My dad was still cracking jokes about the football two days before he went. I nearly didn't tell him I loved him because I thought there'd be another visit. There wasn't. And don't feel bad about planning the funeral early. It doesn't mean you've given up. It just means you're trying to make things easier for everyone later. Also, take the unpaid leave if you can. Work will still be there.โ
โIf you're scared right now, I get it. In 2023, that was me. I remember every visit could be the last like it was yesterday. I picked up the guitar again. You've got this, even if it doesn't feel like it.โ