Support a Friend

There is no word for when a parent looses a child, that’s because the very thought of it is too devastating.

Below are a list of ways you can help your friend who is going through the unimaginable.

• Send them meals or go over and cook for them

• Remind them it’s not their fault

• Avoid “At least…” these sentences dishonour their loss

• If they would like it, acknowledge their baby by talking about them

• Remind them their grief is valid

• No words are needed being in your company can be enough

• Sometimes they won’t want company and will let you know

• If you can’t physically be there for them, send a message, card, email or call.

• Avoid saying “It happened for a reason’ or “God has a plan”

• Don’t forget both parent’s grieve

• Acknowledge the siblings if any, and their grief.

• Offer to help out around the house or do their shopping for them

• If you have experienced loss share your experience but do not compare

• Avoid comparing their loss to others

• Show them affection, hugs release endorphins

• Give a gift that has nothing to do with their loss and is personal to them

• Avoid talking about getting pregnant again.

• Ask how they would like to be supported

• Reach out around their babies special anniversaries

• They may not want to go out much, bring dinner parties to them

• Most importantly give them time