Remembering John
The hard truths of sudden loss
Transitioning from “we” back to “I” brings unique, demanding challenges that few truly understand until they’re in the middle of it. Leigh is open about the raw realities of widowhood, emphasising one truth above all: “It sucks being a single parent.”
Navigating loss while becoming a sole caregiver introduced unexpected complexity to her grief journey, particularly when it came to “caring for our disabled son.”
Leigh also wants to bust one of the biggest and most persistent grief myths out there: the idea that it simply “gets easier.” Healing isn’t a linear timeline where the weight disappears; it’s learning how to carry a dynamic, ever-present change.
What support really looks like
When friends and family wanted to offer comfort, Leigh found that the best gestures weren’t elaborate speeches or unsolicited advice – they were simple, present, and practical.
For Leigh, true support looked like:
"Just listening… being there and bringing a bottle of Prosecco…”
Sometimes, having someone sit beside you in the mess – without trying to fix it – is the greatest gift they can give.
Discovering unexpected strength
Through the hardest chapters of this journey, Leigh has uncovered incredible new strength within herself. Stepping into single parenthood forced a shift in her identity, but it also opened the door to surprising new passions.
She discovered a deep love for solo travel – from the independence of booking her own flights to mapping out whole travel itineraries. Taking on the world on her own terms has become a powerful testament to her resilience.
Words for the early days
To anyone currently standing in the dark, heavy early days of loss, Leigh gently offers this reminder:
"Be kind to yourself... don't feel guilty."
In Leigh's words
Widowhood is a term I never ever thought I would experience, but life is a roller-coaster and I think our loved ones would adore knowing that we have each other… thank you First Light."
A note of thanks
Thank you, Leigh, for opening your heart and sharing John’s memory with us.
Share your story with us
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