Finding Strength Through Grief: A Child’s Journey of Support and Healing

A young girl was seven when her father died suddenly from a brain tumour. Cruse Scotland supported her and her family for 18 months.

Support for children and young people is unlimited because grief can change and develop through different stages and at different ages.

In a card to her Cruse Scotland Supporter, the young girl wrote:

“You have made me feel amazing and a lot better about my daddy dying, which is sad, but you’ve made me feel happier. You really made me feel confident and stronger.”

Her mother said of Cruse Scotland’s support:

“The support given to my daughter has been invaluable. Not only has it helped her to process her own feelings around grief, but it has also helped me greatly by just being there.

“The sudden loss of my husband was earth-shattering for us all and, as her mum, I just wanted the best support possible for my daughter at such a traumatic time.

“A chat with her Supporter would always help, and it was lovely to have this professional support at my fingertips. Loss is frightening, and the support helped ease this pain by empowering me as a mum.”

Both mother and daughter took part in A Day to Remember, which brings together bereaved families to share their experiences.

For them, the day marked a turning point:

“This day had a profound impact on both of us and we left feeling like a weight had been lifted off our shoulders, knowing that we weren’t alone in our situation.”

The mother added:

“My wish is that every child who experiences such a tragic loss could have that special someone to help them through it. Thank you, Cruse Scotland, for being there when we needed you most.”