Father’s Day can be a tough day for many who are unable to be with their fathers and for fathers who are unable to be with their children for whatever reason, be that COVID-19, death, distance or a dissolved relationship.
This year, with so many fathers still in lockdown and unable to spend time with their families, and with visitors to their funeral homes restricted, family funeral directors Rosedale Funeral Home were sad not to be able to offer their usual Father’s Day Book of Remembrance, but were inspired to take it on line instead so that those who wished could still take part in this act of remembrance.
We have set up a special memorial page where in memorium tributes to fathers or children can be left. It is also possible for visitors to the page to upload a picture of their Dad.
Those bereaved of their father are also invited to light a candle at home on 12 noon on Father’s Day, at the same times as others around the county, so that all those who are grieving for the loss of their father can be united and light a candle in their memory.
Lucy Coote, Community Ambassador and facilitator of the Rosedale Bereavement Support Groups in Suffolk says:
“Remember it’s ok to grieve. Being honest and open with your feelings is important and taking part in this special act of remembrance can support you to process those feelings.
Whilst we are currently unable to run our support groups in person, we are keen to hear from those who would like to register for an on line group on the zoom platform.”
In the meantime, Lucy hopes these five things you can do in memory of your loved one will support you at this time:
- Write a letter to them telling them what they brought to your life and the impact this has had on your life.
- Light a candle in their memory with us at 12 noon on Sunday 21st June
- Cook their favourite meal and remember the joy it gave them
- Read a book you know they loved, it may help you to feel closer to them.
- Search out some old photos and spend some time reminiscing.
Rosedale has also set up GriefChat which is accessible here. It enables the bereaved to click on the GriefChat box so that they can talk to a specially trained bereavement counsellor who can listen, explore how grief is affecting them and help them find any additional support they may need.
