14/08/2024
Having taken a break from things for a while to allow myself to process that my mum passed away, I now feel able to provide support to others again. I just had some thoughts to share while they are on my mind.. This was a woman with a kind, loving, adventurous spirit, though her struggles with addiction and alcoholism in her latter years often overshadowed who she truly was. These battles ultimately led her to make choices that shortened her life, but I always loved her deeply for who she was underneath it all—the caring, funny, witty, and vibrant person I knew was inherently her.
Addiction is a heartbreaking journey, not just for those who struggle with it, but also for their loved ones. Watching someone you care about battle with addiction is incredibly painful, and it often leaves family members feeling helpless, hurt, and overwhelmed. It’s a complex and difficult experience that affects everyone involved.
Losing someone you love can feel like a punch in the gut, knocking the wind out of you when you least expect it. But even in the depths of pain, there is still so much beauty and love to be found in life. It's important to be patient with ourselves as we navigate grief, to let ourselves feel all the emotions that come with it—because they will ebb and flow. Some days will be better, and some days will be worse, but eventually, the light will begin to shine through again.
To anyone going through a similar loss, or who has felt the heartbreak of addiction in their family, know that you're not alone. Be kind to yourself, allow yourself to grieve, and remember that healing isn't a straight path. It’s okay to feel broken one day and a little bit stronger the next. Life has a way of surprising us with moments of peace and beauty, even in the darkest times. Hold on to those moments, and keep moving forward, one step at a time