Grief and Healing

Each parent has an individual grief journey, the path of which is unpredictable. You might not know what supports you need at any given time, or may feel you want to be left alone.

Ask your hospital for the contact details of the Bereavement support team, if these are not provided to you.

Again, there is no right or wrong way to grieve or to feel in this most difficult time. It is important to give yourself space and the time to grieve and heal at your own pace and in your own way.

Many people find it helpful to get tokens of remembrance such as footprints, handprints, photos if possible. This can sometimes be arranged through the hospital you attend outside of Ireland.

You may wish to plant a tree or perennial flowers in the garden that will return year after year. Counselling with the right person can also be very helpful.

Whatever your way, try not to go through this alone. Reach out to those who you trust and who give the kind of support you require; whether that be through family, friends or finding others who have gone through a similar loss.

Sharing and giving voice to your emotions really can help you through – especially in the first few months following your loss.