05/29/2026
it’s been a week (yesterday).
it’s been death paperwork to sign.
it’s been calls to discuss cremation.
answering questions like if we wanted a lock of her hair.
being brave in sorrow to celebrate my son graduating.
texts during his graduation lunch that the cremation began.
finding the words to honor her in writing her obituary.
pictures & songs & memories & guilt that guts me.
a text from my brother saying “i have mom with me” & it’s a box of ashes.
intrusive thoughts when the day ends & the house quiets.
a rollercoaster of trying to feel grateful for every breath & finding joy in sorrow while having to process & grieve the loss of a mother i mourned almost my whole existence.
a life ends & the brutal reality is that nothing stops.
there are decisions to make, arrangements to consider, and it’s as if the grief has to wait because the world doesn’t.
i find myself wishing it didn’t feel so taboo to talk about. we’re all going to experience loss & death. it’s a shame it all feels so isolating…
i wish i could personally hug every single one of you that have reached out, sent a card with comforting words, shared/donated to the GoFundMe — some folks i’ve never even met & it’s just such a warm comfort to experience incredible kindness.
thank you. 🤍
we are still raising money to help cover my brothers travel expenses to bring our mothers cremains to Ohio & appreciate any donation or link share. we truly can’t find words to express our gratitude for the support.
i’ve been non stop since her passing & my soul is tired. i’ll be taking time away up where the air & the trees & the water can heal — to catch my breath, process, & grieve before having to plan her remembrance gathering. thank you all for holding me & my family in your thoughts & prayers. we feel the love. 🪽❤️🩹
https://gofund.me/98c9cdc68
