Bereavement Support Group

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Death & Dying
/ Bereavement Support Group

Getting rid of things

critter718
critter718
How do you know what to get rid of and when to get rid of things that belonged to the person close to you who died? I could so easily become a hoarder if I kept every momento that belonged to my daughter. I would really like some ideas on this one. Did you take on this task yourself, did you have help from someone who could look at things more objectively? I know that even if I get rid of items I will still have the memories of Sarah. Thank you in advance for help on this topic.
deleted_user
deleted_user
When my 15 year old son died, I let each of his closest friends pick something meaningful to them. As I needed space I packed up a lot of his things and slowly over the years have passed most of it on to charities and friends.
Of course I kept the things that meant the most to me, his 1st teddybear, school papers and awards, etc. Take your time and don't get in a rush, best wishes,Shelley
deleted_user
deleted_user
It takes time to know when is the best time to let go. My husband has been gone 7 years today, and for the most part I have gotten rid of his posessions. I have three daughters, and they have each been given things of their dad's to keep. Some of his clothing has been given to a friend, and the bulk of his clothing went to a charity. I think it was about a year before I felt comfortable enough to give things away, but to this day I still carry his wallet and keys (and I have moved, so none of them are any use!) with me every day.
PLA58
PLA58
My son lived with his girlfriend, I did not have alot of his things but what I did was when I was good and ready I sorted them. Things I could get rid of things my husband could use or keep and then the items I needed to keep for some unknown reason. Tara ( Mikes girlfriend) could not get rid of a thing it has been 1 1/2 yrs she still has all his things, but now they are in containers. I found a lady who will make a memory quilt of his things. Tara & I thought that would be the best thing to do. Make three quilts one for me, her and Mike jr, to me that is not getting rid of anything but I will always have things and memories.
Penny
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hi! I just joined this group and this was the first thread I have read. Man it made me cry.
Anyway, my friend died back in October. I can't make myself delete him from my cell phone. I pass his name all the time but just cant delete it. Some people told me when Im ready I will, some others said maybe i never will and that is just fine!!!!!