Grief rarely looks the same from one parent to another. One parent may need to talk often about their child, while another may grieve more quietly. One may find comfort in keeping traditions alive, while another struggles just to get through the day. Neither response is right or wrong. Grief is deeply personal because love is deeply personal.

Parents often describe grieving in waves. Some days feel manageable, while others are unexpectedly overwhelming. A familiar song, an empty chair at a family gathering, or the approach of a birthday or holiday can bring emotions rushing back with surprising intensity—even years later. This doesn’t mean a parent is grieving “incorrectly.” It simply reflects the enduring bond between parent and child.

While every grief journey is unique, there are gentle ways parents can care for themselves as they navigate this difficult road.

• Give yourself permission to grieve your own way. There is no timeline and no checklist for healing. Allow yourself to experience whatever emotions arise without judging them.
• Keep your child’s memory close. Many parents find comfort in continuing their child’s legacy through photographs, sharing stories, celebrating birthdays, volunteering, or performing acts of kindness in their child’s honor. Love does not end with death, and remembering is a healthy part of grieving.
• Accept support when it is offered. Friends and family often want to help but may not know how. Let them prepare a meal, sit quietly with you, or simply listen. You do not have to carry every burden alone.
• Connect with people who understand. Support groups, grief organizations, or counseling can provide a safe place where you don’t have to explain the depth of your loss. Being surrounded by others who have experienced child loss can be a powerful reminder that you are not alone.
• Practice patience with yourself. Grief affects the mind, body, and spirit. Rest when you need to. Celebrate small victories. Some days, simply getting out of bed is enough.

If you know a bereaved parent, remember that your presence matters far more than having the perfect words. Say their child’s name. Remember birthdays and anniversaries. Send a note months or even years after the loss. The world may move on, but parents never stop loving their child. Knowing someone else remembers can be an extraordinary gift.

This Bereaved Parents Month, may we create space for these families to be seen, heard, and supported, not only during July, but throughout the year. Grief is the price of profound love, and while no one can take away that pain, compassion reminds grieving parents they do not have to carry it alone.

At Hearts of Hope, we believe every story deserves to be remembered, every child deserves to be honored, and every grieving parent deserves hope, understanding, and a community willing to walk beside them.

Have you experienced grief as a parent or know someone who has? If you need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to reach out: we’re here to help.

Hope and Healing Toolbox

• Check these resources from St. Jude’s and Bereaved Parents USA for more support
• Read our blog on When Fathers Grieve
• Print this blog post and place it somewhere prominent as a reminder to care for yourself

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