Compassion Summer 2023

3 tcf.org.uk Dear Friends Summer again. At least I hope by the time you’re reading this it will be warmer. Well, I’ve got through March, a difficult month for our family as both my daughter, Nikki, and my son, Robin, died that month although years apart. And now this summer many of you will be facing ‘that time of year’ again. There are other days during the year that stir up past memories for us. The main thing to remember is that on these very difficult days, and on the days leading up to them which can be worse than the day itself, is to be kind to yourself and do what feels right for you. Please remember, you’re not alone; you are part of our TCF family now. There is always someone there to share your feelings with whether it’s in person, on the telephone or on-line. I know many of you who have joined a TCF facebook group have said that it is such a comfort to be able to put down exactly how you feel, even in the middle of the night and know that someone will respond. I know that being able to talk to other bereaved parents when I joined TCF has been of the utmost help to me. I also found, much to my surprise, that being a volunteer for TCF, and helping others in Nikki and Robin’s names has made my life so much happier than I ever expected. In the words of Hugh McAninch who was a volunteer for 30 years, “I believe giving a part of yourself in helping others who have suffered the tragedy of losing a child to be the greatest gift and legacy you can offer in your child’s memory.” Hugh’s only son, Christopher, died in a road accident. He goes on to say, “I can now look back and in all honesty say that becoming so active for TCF were probably the most pleasurable years of my life, to know that so many bereaved parents and their families were being supported, helped and that this was only because my wife and I were gifted with the most beautiful son for 17 years.” I help facilitate the newest support group we have started recently online. It is for parents bereaved of two or more children. I know from the comments that parents taking part have made that this is helping them enormously. But what they perhaps don’t realise is that it helps me too - by talking to other parents with a similar experience to me, but also, above all, because it helps me to help them. Hugh McAninch continues, “If you are thinking of volunteering for TCF then please do, the amazing support you will get from others within the charity means you will never be alone, there will always be someone there for you, someone who will be there for as long as you want and need them.” Do get in touch with us at info@tcf.org.uk i f you are at least 3 years bereaved and would like to consider being a TCF volunteer. You can find information about volunteering for our charity on our website here: tcf.org.uk/volunteer If you need help in any form, go onto our website and you will be directed from there, or ring our Helpline on 0345 123 2304 (open 10 am – 4 pm, 7-10 pm every day). If the line is busy please leave your name and number and the first available volunteer will get back to you. You can also email the helpline at helpline@tcf.org.uk. With my warmest wishes to you all, Gina Claye, Nikki and Robin’s mum Editor's Letter by Gina Claye