Trying to help mum, newly widowed

[ciaomamma]

I'm posting on this section to get some help on how I might be helpful and supportive to my mum, my dad very recently passed. It was very unexpected and very fast.
I'll try to keep it short, they are from Italy and I am their only child, I live in Australia they chose to retire in Portugal... needless to say mum now has so much to sort out. I was unable to go but we of course told her to come as soon as she felt she wanted to.
Our relationship has been strained at times but I'd like to make her feel welcome and to help her like being here because I think she should move here.

 

[pdudgeon]

Your mum probably will need help for a long time to come.
Since you are separated by distance now, the best thing you can do for her is to keep in frequent contact.
Be proactive in your help, finding ways to help and encourage her gently week by week, even though you are separated by distance now.

Most people believe that the standard period of grief for the passing of a loved one is perhaps a month. They're so very wrong!

Grief is timeless, and it's passage is always longer than anyone has any idea of.

Small steps in dealing with things are actually major achievements. And likewise small setbacks or delays can leave a widow or widower feeling like they have just been bulldozed by oncoming rush hour traffic.

One of the best ways to help is to stabilize things around her as best you can. That means financially, physically, spiritually, and emotionally.
She has just gone through the most emotionally upsetting event that will happen in her life, so any efforts to shore up what can be secured, and comfort her in her time of ultimate loss will be necessary and appreciated.

 

[NOTWHATIWAS]

I too am widowed w/one child. Can I pray for your Mum?