"Death of Mum"

Mum died whilst I was on holiday

Mum suffered from vascular dementia, and was on end of life care before I went away. I  knew she was going to pass before I went away. I don’t know how, I just did. I went on holiday to please other family members when I really wanted to stay with mum. Mum passed away 5 days into a 14 day cruise. The logistics of flying home meant I would only arrive home one day before end of cruise, so I stayed.

I have a blind sister who also has learning difficulties, so my time was spent comforting her. I put my grief in a box. I’m not trying to be a goody goody but I’m a retired Police Officer, I’m used to boxing stuff away.

Things got on top of me throughout the year family difficulties. I also have great difficulty sleeping I also suffer from epilepsy which had/has increased in frequency of attacks.

One night I was very drunk ( I don’t drink) I just thought it would help me sleep. I accidentally took too many of my epileptic meds. It wasn’t an attempt to kill myself just to sleep, but the amount could have seriously harmed me. I contacted my doctor and they put me in contact with your service.

I was contacted by a therapist, who has been amazing. They listened when they needed to and spoke when they needed to. My therapist has such a genuine caring nature and such a heart for people. We had several phone calls and my therapist always kept the appointments, ringing on time etc. A genuine credit to the service.

If someone ever needed me I hope I would behave like my therapist. I am in a much better place now. I’m starting to study further exams to enhance my electrical knowledge ( I’m an electrician). I’m also back on my bike cycling. I’m in a much better frame of mind.

Thank you so much from a very very grateful man

Be blessed