My father passed away Wednesday from complications associated with vascular dementia. The hospice social worker called the next day to offer condolences and said a bereavement counselor would be contacting me in 2 weeks. Is this standard procedure? I’m bereft, overwhelmed and barely holding it together and I’m supposed to muster through the funeral and whatever else in the next 2 weeks without hospice support?!?
I know this morning that you are waking up and remembering that your dad is gone and that it’s been almost a week. To me, that’s the hardest time of the day. The moment it all comes rushing back. There are many places one can receive bereavement support as Cdnreader suggested. I encourage you to seek them out. Perhaps more than one. It could be the hospice is the only one who has offered so far. Everyone is different. For some the loss is too personal to share so soon. To delve into. It might feel too hard to accept that your loved one has died. Perhaps you were there or perhaps you received a call and it just seems unreal that your dad has left. That it can’t be really true. It’s such a shock to know the spirit that filled their body has left our human perception. Has left our sight. Other times we know they are gone and nothing else seems important. We intellectually know we have other responsibilities and necessary actions to take but it all seems so unnecessary and meaningless. A thought will come to mind, perhaps a memory. Regardless, a reason will occur to you that will enable you to take action. A way to remember that this time right now is about dad and it’s a collective time for those in his life to pause and note his passing.
You may be very tired. You may feel that you need rest and that is normal and desired. You have received a shock and rest will help you recover. So know that you will manage today and tomorrow and the days to follow. You are your fathers daughter. You love him and you will never forget him but you will live on.
I am very sorry for your loss. We are all with you during this time. We send you our support during this hard hard time.
My deepest condolences and sympathies. I am very sorry for your loss. I know its horribly painful to lose a beloved father. My understanding is that hospice does generally offer counselling to family and friends after a loss. But if two weeks feel too far away then please call them back and see if you can talk with someone sooner. Or see if there are other resources in the community or through church that could also support you in the meantime.
Please know we are all here as well. Thinking of you and your family during this sad time. I hope trusted friends and family are lending a hand where they can.
Sending you love and hugs.