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Next gathering in the Ukraine circle: Weekly check-in ยท
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
โReading this late at night? I've been there. I was right where you are two years ago. For me, dad is in palliative care. I picked up the guitar again. You've got this, even if it doesn't feel like it.โ
โThe first time you forget she was ever different, that's the worst. I won't lie. It doesn't get easier. But you learn to live in the gaps. The crossword still helps. Coffee. The train. Small things. Don't expect anyone to understand. They won't. But you'll find your people. The ones who nod without saying anything. Hold onto them. And hold onto the good days. They come. Even now.โ
โA note for the next person. I was in the same place this time last year. Dad is in palliative care. That was every day. I'm volunteering here now. It comes back so slowly you don't notice until one day you do. One day at a time.โ