How to Support a Grieving Mother on Mother’s Day

Sunday May 7, 2023 is International Bereaved Mother’s Day.  A day I had no idea existed until I became a bereaved mother.  Mother’s Day can be particularly hard on a mother who has lost a child.  The first Sunday in May is set aside as a day for bereaved mother’s.

It began as a day for mothers who lost one or more of their children to come together, share their memories and offer love and support to each other. 

It can be difficult to know what to say to a grieving mother.  But there are ways to remember and show your support to her. 

Just be there.  Allow her to talk about her child and share his/her stories and memories. Don’t be afraid to mention our children. We have not forgotten that they lived and we want to know you remember them too. Ask her to share her favorite memory or picture of her child.

Sometimes silence truly is golden.  You don’t have to say anything.  Just sit with her, give her a hug, show up with a bowl of soup, a favorite treat or a pizza and just let her know you care.

Invite her to go on an outing with you.  Maybe a cup of tea or coffee, ice cream, a walk in a park.  Don’t be surprised if she says “no” but don’t stop asking.  One day she will be ready to get out and will thank you for not giving up on her. 

Send a card, a note, or some flowers and let her know someone remembers.

Call her on the phone just to check in and see how she is doing.  

Things that you can say or write in a note or message:

I miss him/her too.  

I am thinking of you and  your child  today. 

I can’t imagine what you are thinking/feeling, but I am here for you. 

One of my favorite memories of  your child is……………
One of the things I love most about your child is……….

You and your child are always in my thoughts.

You are not alone.  I will be here for you for anything you need. 

Whenever you are ready to talk I am here for you. 

There are no words.  Just know I truly care and am thinking and praying for you. 

I love you and your child.

Our kids might not live in this world any longer, but we are forever thier mother’s and they still live on in our hearts and our memories.  On this bereaved mother’s day you get to choose how and what you do to remember your child. You can share his/her memories.  You can have their favorite meal or treat and remember them.  You can be alone or with those who love and support you.  There is no right way to do any of it.  Each one of us will grieve differently. 

On Sunday I will remember you all with love and kindness and I hope you find a way to find some peace and hope as you remember your child.  

XOXO, 

Coach Laura