From a Grieving Mother...
How does one survive the loss of a child? Not easily. And there are likely many, many days when you feel as though you won't. But you can. Just probably not alone. I encourage you to lean heavily on God and Jesus Christ during this most challenging time. Take things moment by moment and step by step, which will likely be all you can (barely) manage. Also, seek professional help. Grief therapists have an amazing way of helping us cope and navigate this surreal journey. Just make sure you find the right one for you. I also strongly recommend support groups. While most people mean well, there is NO ONE who can relate to this seemingly unbearable loss like others who are suffering through it as well.
Following are a few resources. Alive Alone is a support group for parents whose only child (or all children) passed away. The Compassionate Friends is a support group for parents who have had a child to transition. Information for both groups is below. You may also contact My Sonshine Foundation for support @ 770-376-7115 or mysonshinefoundation@gmail.com. I have also found the radio station K-Love to be a great source of comfort. It's 106.7 FM in Atlanta, and available on other stations nationwide. Really listen to the lyrics of the songs. They are amazingly helpful.
God has a plan and a purpose for each of us. We just don't expect our child to fulfill the latter before we do, i.e., we don't expect to outlive our child or children. If you find yourself in this predicament too, continue to trust God. It WILL NOT be easy, but remember: He has The Master Plan.
Best,
Chanda
Amari's Mom
Alive Alone
Website: alivealone.org
Email: alivalon@bright.net
The Compassionate Friends
Website: compassionatefriends.org
Atlanta Chapter
4532 Lavista Road
Tucker, GA 30084
Email: jayne@tcfatlanta.org
Meetings: In-person - 2nd Tuesday of every month @ 7:30 PM; virtually -
3rd Tuesday of every month @ 7:30 PM (call for login information)
North Atlanta Chapter
The Link Counseling Center
348 Mount Vernon Highway NE
Atlanta, GA 30328
Email: tcf.sandysprings@gmail.com
Meetings: 4th Wednesday of every month @ 7:00 PM
Marietta Chapter
First Baptist Church
148 Church Street
Marietta, GA 30060
Email: pafbenitz@gmail.com
Meetings: 1st Tuesday of every month, 7:00-9:00 PM
West Georgia Chapter
Community Christian Church
1717 Highway 154
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Email: cfofwestga@gmail.com
Meetings: 1st Tuesday of every month @ 6:30-8:00 PM
Note: This website might be beneficial for grieving children or young adults: https://griefsucks.com/.