Read Part 1
I am very blessed to have a supportive family and close friends who made sure I was taken care of before and after Jon passed. While nothing could take my grief away, having others around was a comfort.
My parents, who had been so supportive while Jon went through his battle with cancer, were right there with me in the hospital, helping me get answers from the doctors, praying with me, and crying with me. They helped me make phone calls to family, as Jon’s death was near. They stuck very close to my kids and I for several weeks. Their guidance was invaluable, as I had many decisions to make over those first few days and weeks, and they helped me wade through all of it. They made sure I got the rest I needed, food that I could tolerate until the nausea passed, and went to the funeral home with me to take care of the details of Jon’s burial and service.
Jon’s family showed up from all over the country very quickly and came ready to help in any way they could. Jon’s Mom had passed the year before, so this was very difficult to have to say goodbye again. They were supportive, loving, and also hurting, as this compounded their grief. My father in law, in his grief, shared advice from his recent experience of having to bury his wife, which helped me make wise decisions. He shared wonderful memories with me of Jon’s childhood that I hadn’t heard, and he spent a lot of time with my kids during the week of Jon’s service. Jon's brother's both participated in his service, and while I know it was difficult for both of them, it was a blessing to me and others.
My very close friends were willing to drop everything and show up for me. One dear friend kept our church informed of what was happening, and she was such a support through the excruciating waiting at the hospital. My best friend, whom I have known since childhood, and her Mom drove 4 hours to be with me at the hospital. They didn’t hesitate when I said I wanted them there, and their presence and hugs were comforting, as we sat in the waiting room together.
It’s possible that you do not have a support system like this that helped you through the shock of losing your spouse. If not, please leave me a comment or reach out to me on Facebook or Instagram, so I can come alongside you on your journey. It is difficult to wade through all of this, and no one should have to do it alone.
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