Emily

Emily is a former Cruse Scotland client who received bereavement support following the death of her dad.

Inspired by the help she received, Emily wanted to give back and recently completed a challenging skydive.

Through her efforts, Emily raised an incredible £1,855 that will provide vital support – and hope – to many others struggling to cope with their grief.

Here is Emily’s story.

"My dad and I didn’t have the typical close father-daughter relationship. He died at 45, and I was 19 at the time.

"I hadn’t spoken to him for several years before, but I managed to contact him before he passed away, which I am always grateful for, although the conversation was not a positive one, which I hold so much guilt towards.

"Sometimes I felt, and still feel, that I am not allowed to be as upset as other people are when they lose their parents, as I did not have a close relationship with him. These are feelings that I still navigate, coming up to five years on.

"However, Cruse Scotland really helped me understand that all my feelings towards his passing are valid, and I am allowed to grieve him and the relationship we had and also, unfortunately, the one we did not have.

"The grief totally floored me, and I really struggled managing my emotions. A family member recommended Cruse Scotland, and so I reached out.

"The volunteer counsellor was great. I knew every week I had a space to discuss my emotions without judgment and someone who would understand what I was going through.

"He helped me understand that I am allowed to be angry and upset with, but also grieve my dad. These feelings can coexist, and it’s normal to feel the weight of both.

"I decided to take a skydive to raise as much money as possible and to do something a bit different. With a fear of heights, skydiving is never something I would usually choose to do - but life is too short!

"It was amazing - but really scary. I was so lucky with the weather, although it was -21° up there, I have never been colder!

"I would definitely recommend a skydive to anyone if they ever get the opportunity. I can’t believe I exceeded my fundraising goal. I am so, so happy.

"It makes me emotional knowing that people have read my story and have decided to give money to help other people struggling with grief. Grief is something everyone will go through at one point in their life, yet it feels like the most isolated emotion.

I am eternally grateful for the help Cruse Scotland provided me, and I wanted to give back by taking on this challenge. Having someone to talk to and listen to my struggles lifted a huge weight off my chest, and I hope these funds help to offer that for others, too."

Thank you so much to Emily for her support in this bold and brave way – both for the funds she has raised and for the courage to take on this kind of challenge.

If you are inspired, why not take on a Skydive (or one of our other challenges where your feet can stay on solid ground) in support of Cruse Scotland! Click here for more inspiration.