What to say/write?

Hawkesbury · 12 Dec 2014 at 09:31

This year has been a tough one with regards to illness and death in my family.

My Aunt died suddenly in the summer.

Mother & Father in Law diagnosed with cancer.

Yesterday my Cousins partner died of a brain haemorrhage (leaving behind two children under 8). They had been together 20 years+.

I have been asked to tell my Grandma (95 years). This year she has lost a daughter and now this. What do you say?

benjii · 12 Dec 2014 at 09:43

You don't need to make it complicated, just tell her. "I'm sorry to tell you this, but X has died." What matters is that you're there to tell her personally and can be there to comfort her in her time of need.

dirtychinchilla · 12 Dec 2014 at 10:01

Much love to you and your family. I hope things pick up for you.

cheesyboy · 12 Dec 2014 at 10:04

benjii said:
You don't need to make it complicated, just tell her. "I'm sorry to tell you this, but X has died." What matters is that you're there to tell her personally and can be there to comfort her in her time of need.

Yup. When receiving very bad news, the finer details of how it's delivered don't really matter all that much. Just be sympathetic and supportive, and don't fluff around too much in the telling.

Skidder · 12 Dec 2014 at 10:07

Very sorry to hear what a year you've had. Be straightforward with your words and ready to give a hug (which I am sure you need just as much)