Thirty-eight years ago tonight my brother set himself on fire and lived for 43 days.
I have posted here in the past. Some years this day slips by without me realizing. Sometimes I quietly acknowledge it. Some years it is very vivid like it is tonight.
For the first three years I felt I had to will every breath I took. I did not think I could survive the crushing pain and sadness. I am here to let you know I have a productive life and I’m happily married. It took a long time to find my way and my brother’s death is still the worst thing that has ever happened in my life.
Things that helped me: therapy, journaling, asking for help, finding nurturing things to do for myself. Sometimes all I could do was wrap up in a blanket on the couch. Breathe, breathe, breathe.
Keep coming back here. You are not alone.
Thank you for the words of encouragement. My brother died by suicide one month ago. I’m so sorry for your devastating loss.
Thank you for taking the time to drop me a note. It matters.
I am sorry for your loss as well.
It is so difficult in the beginning. Everything is different. Nothing is familiar.
Every day moves you closer to light and hope. One day, one hour, moment at a time.