Loss of a Loved One - Prolonged Illness

Death, Bereavement, Passed, Grief, Grieving, Cancer, Heart Disease, Deceased, Dying, Funeral

They Might Be Thinking or Feeling:

I feel heartbroken.
This makes no sense.
I can't believe this is happening.
This does not seem fair...on any level.
I am not sure how to make sense of this.
SHOCK: Uncertainty, fearful of what the future will bring without the deceased.
REFLECTION: I can’t believe this person is gone. What will life be like without this person in my life?
UNCERTAINTY: What will I do when I need advice or insight from this person?
LEGACY: What would the deceased want me to do to carry on his or her legacy?
PHYSICAL: Uneasy stomach, chest tightness, crying, tense muscles, trouble relaxing, low energy, restlessness
HOLIDAYS: How will I get through holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries?
MENTAL: Reminiscent, worries or regrets, or thoughts of what life will be like without the person
EMOTIONS: Easily moved to feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, despair, relief, love, or hope
SPIRITUAL: Renewed faith or distrust in God, questioning religious beliefs
WAVES OF GRIEF: Emotions may ebb, flow, and dip unexpectedly.

Words That Might Be Encouraging:

There are no words to explain the meaning behind why this is happening.
We will get through this together.
Take the time you need to find your way.
There is no right way to feel.
Inspiration: He was and continues to be a great source of inspiration to everyone he touched.
Uplifting: He always made everyone feel like they were the most important in the room.
Irreplaceable: We lost one of the most generous human beings I know.
Peace of Mind: I think you brought a lot of joy and happiness to his or her life.
Love: He talked about you all the time. You definitely were THE One for him.
Insomnia: I heard you say you are having trouble sleeping? I can send you a list of natural sleep solutions.
Food Offerings: A few of your friends want to send food for the next few months…is it better to send food during the week or on the weekend? Do you prefer home-cooked or delivery from one of your favorite spots?
Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I wish you healing and peace.
I hope you feel surrounded by much love.
We are so sorry for your loss.
We are thinking of you during these difficult times.
May my condolences bring you comfort and may my prayers ease the pain of this loss.
We pray the love for the lost is forever carried in your memory.
Words can’t express how saddened we are to hear of your loss.
May the memory of [insert name] bring you comfort and peace.
Today and always, may loving memories bring you peace, comfort, and strength.
My heart is with you in your time of sorrow.
Wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time.
May the sorrow you feel in your heart lighten by the love that surrounds you.
I’m missing [insert name] along with you. With heartfelt condolences.
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
I am sending you this card to let you know that I am thinking of you. I am sorry for your loss.
We are here for you and your family, now and forever.