UK Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | tcf.org.uk If there is a dog to be walked, the bereaved parents or children may appreciate someone offering to do this or to provide them with some company. If a parent has been bereaved of their only child, or all of their children, they have suffered a particularly profound loss. They may be concerned that once they themselves have died, there will be nobody to remember their children. The future could look bleak. They may feel very lonely and anxious, wondering how they will manage as they face illness or old age. Assuring them of your presence and love could go a long way in alleviating these understandable worries. Special occasions Some of the worst times for a bereaved parent are the anniversary of the child’s death, their birthday, and the major festivals, such as Christmas or other religious festivals, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or New Year. It is then that the gaping hole in the family may be felt most acutely. Any contact you make can help them to feel that they are not alone. Hearing others say the name of their child can be a priceless gift for them. This applies as the years go by, not only the first year since their child died. Your own grief As a friend or member of their wider family, you may have also known the child who has died, and will be coping with your own grief. You may feel great sorrow, not only at the loss of the child, but also at the impact that this has had on their parents. There is no wrong or right way to grieve, and your way of coping with loss may well be different to that of the parents.
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