03 455 2128
Grieving during lockdown
August 19, 2020
You dont know what yo have until its gone
Like most New Zealanders we experienced the range of emotions as we progressed through March and into April. There was fear of the virus and the unknown, uncertainty about operating safely, and sadness for those families who had someone die at such a difficult time.
We had to adapt very quickly and work out new ways of operating. The normal patterns were upended, and we needed to give guidance and support in ways previously unknown. There was very much a sense of loss and disconnect in the community.
We learnt how to run simulcast funerals with an on-line audience and remote tributes coming in using multiple platforms. We recorded unaccompanied committals so that families could at least have some comfort in knowing their loved one was farewelled with respect and dignity.
When Jacinda announced the move to Level 1, we were delighted. How wonderful it felt to be safe and to hug each other again.
And we relearnt something that we already knew – that all the technology in the world cannot replace basic human connection and support. When someone we love dies, the need to be together, to support and to mourn, to touch and to hug is such a powerful human instinct. I read an article recently by a grief educator who talked about the power of touch and how when we are touched in comforting ways, our brains are flooded with feel-good hormones. Conversely ‘touch starvation’ can add to depression and anxiety and complicated grieving. The gathering together and the rituals of a funeral help with acceptance.
Writing down my wishes
How Victorians Mourned
Because pets can't speak their grief often manifests in behavioural changes
Making the decision to euthanise a pet is never easy
We’re often asked whether children should be involved after a family member's death, and if so, how? While you know your children best, our general advice is to include them as much as possible. Children will take cues from the adults around them, so if you're open and honest, they will likely follow suit. Answer their questions directly but avoid unnecessary details unless they're asked. Their inquiries will be shaped by their age and previous experiences, such as the death of a pet. Children under 7 may not fully understand that death is permanent, universal, and involves the body stopping completely. They may ask more literal questions, like "Who will Nan play with in heaven?" or "Who will take me to the park?"
In some cultures, being around the deceased is a natural part of life, but in Western culture, we’ve moved away from this. At Gillions, we believe in supporting families to be as involved as they wish in caring for their loved one after they’ve passed. This may include helping to dress them, spending time with them, or bringing them home before the funeral. While it’s natural to feel unsure about this, we often hear from families that the experience was deeply meaningful. Dressing a loved one can feel like a final act of love, especially if you helped care for them before they passed. We encourage children to be part of this process too.
Grief is a deeply personal journey, influenced by past experiences and the circumstances of loss. When a death is sudden, for instance, grief can feel more complex and harder to navigate than when the death was expected. While many find their own path through grief, others may require additional support
It is not just children who are deeply affected by the loss of a pet. Grief is a price we pay for love.
I still remember the heartache of putting our beautiful girl, Keira, to sleep after 15 years with us. We had a deep bond. She travelled with us overseas and to different cities. Her demise was very sudden and came as such a shock. Pets provide unconditional love, happiness, and joy. When that is taken away, there is a void left in their place. They are a loved member of the family. Some may not understand the depth of your grief, but for you, it is real. At Gillions, we have all lost pets. The grieving process cannot be forced or hurried; for some, it can be measured in years. Reaching out to others who have lost pets can help ease the grieving process. Since 2019, we have held an annual pet memorial—a funeral for your pet. We include the elements of a traditional funeral: a musician, celebrant, a slideshow of all the loved pets, a memorial tree, and light refreshments afterwards. Our next pet memorial will be held on Sunday, October 6th, at 2 pm in the Gillions Chapel. Please send your photos to pets@gillions.co.nz by September 30th. If you are unable to attend in person, we will live-stream the service. "Everything you love will probably be lost, but in the end, love will return in another way." - Franz Kafka (1883-1924)
Address
407 Hillside Road
South Dunedin
Dunedin 9012
Contact
03 455 2128
Office@Gillions.co.nz
