Tag Archives: Grief

One Last Lovely Dinner

Posted on November 25, 2021 by msw blog

My father lay dying of the coronavirus. A normally ebullient 96-year-old, he drifted in and out of consciousness as I, also infected, sat at his bedside. His lucid moments were precious opportunities for connection and FaceTime calls with his grandchildren. … Continue reading →

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Hello, Old Friend

Posted on November 23, 2021 by msw blog

Grief was that relative I heard stories about. I knew her in the way I knew Uncle Gerald, someone I never met but learned so much about. Then my husband died, and there Grief was, shaking my hand. I offered … Continue reading →

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End-of-life Planning  

Posted on September 22, 2021 by msw blog

Do your parents have a storage unit? What’s your aunt’s Facebook password? Where does your sister keep her diaries? These may seem like minor concerns—but when a loved one becomes terminally ill or dies, knowing those simple details can take … Continue reading →

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A Mint Lifesaver

Posted on September 11, 2021 by msw blog

After the funeral, I tidied the guest room for my mother, who was moving in temporarily while adjusting to life without my father. I was restless, believing I should have convinced him to see a doctor sooner. When I pulled … Continue reading →

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Soothe the Pain

Posted on July 12, 2021 by msw blog

I found out about my miscarriage in an email, the morning after my ultrasound. Spontaneous abortion. I was told that a heating pad, aspirin, and rest would help soothe the pain. When I spoke to a friend, she asked, “What … Continue reading →

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