Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

PinkTiger

(2,590 posts)
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 10:37 AM Jan 2012

My husband died Jan 14

I posted in the bereavement group, but it is rather a sparse group.
We were married for 35 years. He had a serious heart condition and died in his sleep. It was sudden.
I'm feeling numb. In fact, I'm really doing OK. Is this normal?

57 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
My husband died Jan 14 (Original Post) PinkTiger Jan 2012 OP
Numb = normal. CurtEastPoint Jan 2012 #1
{{{PinkTiger}}} MorningGlow Jan 2012 #2
I am so sorry to hear of your loss Sanity Claws Jan 2012 #3
So sorry for your loss. n/t poverlay Jan 2012 #4
I'm so sorry for your loss PinkTiger Sweet Freedom Jan 2012 #5
Hugs to you, PinkTiger. Melissa G Jan 2012 #6
Oh Pink Tiger I'm so sorry! Howler Jan 2012 #7
So sorry for your loss dickthegrouch Jan 2012 #8
Oh dear PinkTiger BanzaiBonnie Jan 2012 #9
I'm sorry, PT Why Syzygy Jan 2012 #10
I'm so sorry for your loss LiberalEsto Jan 2012 #11
((((((((((PinkTiger)))))))))) TeeYiYi Jan 2012 #12
Very sorry. elleng Jan 2012 #13
I'm so sorry. Still Blue in PDX Jan 2012 #14
I am sorry for your loss Pugee Jan 2012 #15
Oh, PinkTiger! Habibi Jan 2012 #16
I'm so sorry for your loss, PinkTiger.... magical thyme Jan 2012 #17
Sending Love and Light to you PinkTiger MagickMuffin Jan 2012 #18
Oh wow- I'm sorry Tumbulu Jan 2012 #19
Hugs to Pink Tiger wovenpaint Jan 2012 #20
I'm so sorry for your lost, PT mysticalchick Jan 2012 #21
So sorry to hear that. Cleita Jan 2012 #22
I'm so sorry for your loss Ricochet21 Jan 2012 #23
So sorry for your loss, PinkTiger Proud_Lefty Jan 2012 #24
Pink Tiger Celebration Jan 2012 #25
Dear Pink Tiger, I am sorry for your loss. I felt very much the say way when my husband japple Jan 2012 #26
My condolences Generic Brad Jan 2012 #27
35 years with someone you love is a wonderful gift Lucinda Jan 2012 #28
So sorry for your loss. applegrove Jan 2012 #29
Thanks, everyone. PinkTiger Jan 2012 #30
I surely wish for ease to arrive soon. kimmerspixelated Jan 2012 #31
So sorry to hear this! WolverineDG Jan 2012 #32
I am so terribly sorry, PinkTiger... OneGrassRoot Jan 2012 #33
Even your statement being so brief speaks volumes of your sadness. glinda Jan 2012 #34
Sorry for your loss, Pink Tiger. southerncrone Jan 2012 #35
I am so very sorry to hear this! davsand Jan 2012 #36
Ohhhh, Pink. I am very sorry for your loss. BlueIris Jan 2012 #37
Wow that's a longterm marriage Tsiyu Jan 2012 #38
So sorry to read of your loss rosesaylavee Jan 2012 #39
Sending you my condolences Bluestar Jan 2012 #40
Oh, I'm so sorry. My sincere condolences. Remember Me Jan 2012 #41
Condolences for your loss, PinkTiger... villager Jan 2012 #42
Oh, Pink Tiger, I am so sorry..... Ecumenist Jan 2012 #43
I am sorry for your loss. icymist Jan 2012 #44
Oooohhhhh Delphinus Jan 2012 #45
You are normal. yellerpup Jan 2012 #46
I am so sorry cate94 Jan 2012 #47
I am so sorry. murielm99 Jan 2012 #48
numb is normal. everything is normal during shock... NuttyFluffers Jan 2012 #49
I am so sorry for your loss, Pink Tiger. Mnemosyne Jan 2012 #50
I am so sorry for your loss. peacefreak Jan 2012 #51
Thanks again, all PinkTiger Jan 2012 #52
My condolences on your loss. bigmonkey Jan 2012 #53
Pink Tiger! BlueToTheBone Feb 2012 #54
I am so very very sorry. nt Mojorabbit Feb 2012 #55
hey rbnyc Feb 2012 #56
Just here reminding you that you are not alone. Please keep in touch as you are able. Mnemosyne Feb 2012 #57

CurtEastPoint

(18,639 posts)
1. Numb = normal.
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 11:01 AM
Jan 2012

It's good you're doing OK but don't be surprised if memorie resurface at the least expected time and you fall apart for a bit.
if you feel the need, seek out a live, in-person bereavement group. It helps to talk and share.

Sanity Claws

(21,846 posts)
3. I am so sorry to hear of your loss
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 11:05 AM
Jan 2012

As for what is "normal," that really shouldn't concern you. Everyone grieves in their own way, in their own time.

Melissa G

(10,170 posts)
6. Hugs to you, PinkTiger.
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 11:36 AM
Jan 2012

Very sorry for your loss and the sudden shock.

The thing I remember most about grieving, is that the phase some folks call 'denial' is really just 'rest' from the often overwhelming work of processing.

I hope you can find a real live, in person, support group. I only have 20 years with this spouse and shockingly numb, I'm sure, would be one of my first responses. (We had a recent scare and a lot of deaths in our peer group. Death has been a big topic in our home lately.)

Howler

(4,225 posts)
7. Oh Pink Tiger I'm so sorry!
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 11:44 AM
Jan 2012

I agree with the other post that said Don't worry about being So called "Normal"
You will process and Grieve You're Husbands death in you're own time and you're own way. Please know that we are all here for you Pink Tiger.
If there is ANYTHING I can do for you Please don't hesitate to ask. Sending Love/light

dickthegrouch

(3,172 posts)
8. So sorry for your loss
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 12:42 PM
Jan 2012

The first stage of grief is disbelief. It's hard to believe he's gone. And don't beat yourself up if you feel some relief that he's out of pain now, that's quite common too. I'm afraid you can expect some wildly changing emotions for a while. If you are religious, a priest might help explain what you are going through. If not, the funeral home director may be another good source of comforting information. (Even after the funeral).

Stay as positive as you can, be kind to yourself and seek out friends and family.

While everyone says "let me know if there's anything I can do", no-one knows what's needed except you (otherwise they wouldn't ask). Something as simple as answering the phone for you can go a long way to reducing your grief or anxiety.

BanzaiBonnie

(3,621 posts)
9. Oh dear PinkTiger
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 12:51 PM
Jan 2012

I'm so sorry.

You're being has protective measures in place to help you to process this. Numb is not unusual.

Take care of yourself as you can. Do you have anyone to lean on at this time? Let yourself be surrounded by the love of friends and allies. We are here.

elleng

(130,865 posts)
13. Very sorry.
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 01:46 PM
Jan 2012

Don't know about 'normal,' Tiger, but I suspect your 'calm' reaction is among many which people commonly feel. Please don't worry about it, live with it, breathe with it, and be thankful that you and he are both at peace.

Pugee

(346 posts)
15. I am sorry for your loss
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 03:05 PM
Jan 2012

It is "normal" and so are lots of other things. Everyone is different in how they grieve. When my husband died several years ago, I was numb for several weeks. It is your minds way of shielding you from the pain. It is one of those life experiences that you think you know how someone feels until you have been through it yourself.

You will have lots of ups and downs in the next several months. Just remember that it will get better someday and you will be happy again, different, but ok.

Habibi

(3,598 posts)
16. Oh, PinkTiger!
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 03:07 PM
Jan 2012

I'm so, so sorry to hear of your loss. What a terrible shock. Peace and healing to you.

 

magical thyme

(14,881 posts)
17. I'm so sorry for your loss, PinkTiger....
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 03:22 PM
Jan 2012


Your feelings are normal. Numb is protection from shock and pain. As others have written, your feelings will likely fluctuate. Find a face-to-face group, and always feel free to post in here.

MagickMuffin

(15,936 posts)
18. Sending Love and Light to you PinkTiger
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 03:30 PM
Jan 2012

There is nothing abnormal concerning your feelings.

Dying in your sleep is how I would want to go through transition. One dream state into another.

I am 100% sure he experienced the Love and Light that I have been researching concerning NDE.







Tumbulu

(6,278 posts)
19. Oh wow- I'm sorry
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 04:19 PM
Jan 2012

and it all sounds normal.

I am so grateful that his passing was painless.

hugs and love, Tumbulu

wovenpaint

(1,472 posts)
20. Hugs to Pink Tiger
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 04:23 PM
Jan 2012

I'm sorry to hear of your loss.
You've spent 35 years together, so I feel that "feeling numb" would be quite expected. Be very good to yourself and let others do for you as much as they like. Best wishes to you and yours.

mysticalchick

(1,086 posts)
21. I'm so sorry for your lost, PT
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 05:53 PM
Jan 2012

It's hard when you don't really expect it and all of a sudden one day the whole landscape of your life has changed. Grief comes in waves so be gentle with yourself as you move forward.

Love and peace,
Lisa

Cleita

(75,480 posts)
22. So sorry to hear that.
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 06:01 PM
Jan 2012

I'm glad you are okay. There are various stages of grieving. You will go through them and passage of time helps in the end.

Proud_Lefty

(1,553 posts)
24. So sorry for your loss, PinkTiger
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 07:14 PM
Jan 2012

I am hoping his transition is an easy one, and that you will be able to recognize the signs when he comes to visit you. In the meantime, much love and big hugs during this very difficult time.

Celebration

(15,812 posts)
25. Pink Tiger
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 09:43 PM
Jan 2012

It sounds normal, but I am so sorry. Please accept my condolences. I am sure over time your emotions and outlook will be changing, and I think you can expect both good times and bad emotionally. {hugs}

japple

(9,822 posts)
26. Dear Pink Tiger, I am sorry for your loss. I felt very much the say way when my husband
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 10:43 PM
Jan 2012

of 25 years died instantly and suddenly from a heart attack. I would not have been able to do all that I had to do in the days following his death had it not been for that numbness and for the kindness and support of family and friends. I know the angels held me aloft for a long, long time, then set me back down slowly and gently. The emotional part may come for you later or not at all. Saying goodbye to him will be a lengthy process. Don't worry about whether what you're feeling is normal. It is.

Lucinda

(31,170 posts)
28. 35 years with someone you love is a wonderful gift
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 10:55 PM
Jan 2012

When my mother died I had no grief, only joy that she was no longer suffering. Her funeral was a celebration of her life. I am pretty firmly in the camp of believers who feel that listening to your heart is the best way to move through a loved ones passing.

Sending light and love to everyone touched by his life.

PinkTiger

(2,590 posts)
30. Thanks, everyone.
Sat Jan 28, 2012, 11:51 PM
Jan 2012

I just came back from another funeral, this of a dear friend who also died in her sleep. She was only 60. I'm definitely in the numb state. I think I need some counseling and will seek it out. Bless all of you.

Brenda

kimmerspixelated

(8,423 posts)
31. I surely wish for ease to arrive soon.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:21 AM
Jan 2012

We feel honored that you have shared with us at your time of loss. God bless you.

OneGrassRoot

(22,920 posts)
33. I am so terribly sorry, PinkTiger...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:59 AM
Jan 2012


Whatever you are feeling is perfectly normal, especially feeling numb.

Sending you infinite hugs of support and condolence....




southerncrone

(5,506 posts)
35. Sorry for your loss, Pink Tiger.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:03 AM
Jan 2012

Don't think there is any such thing as "normal" when dealing with this kind of loss. Each of us has our own ways of coping. If he had a serious heart condition, you have probably conditioned yourself to expect this for some time. You may have been dealing w/it on a subconscious level for quite a while. The fact that he died in his sleep is a blessing for both of you. May be his way of helping you get through this period easier. What a loving gift he gave. If he was suffering, then his passing would be a relief for both of you, too. Sometimes release from this world is actually a positive thing for those concerned. The numb feeling may be shock. There may be a delayed reaction, but I'd meditate on it and ask for the answer. He will let you know in his own way, as your higher self will, too.
Take care of yourself & make sure to continue social contacts, they will help you carry on in this world & give you a support system.
Love, light & peace to you.

davsand

(13,421 posts)
36. I am so very sorry to hear this!
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 03:05 AM
Jan 2012

There is probably little that anyone can say to help at this point, but please know that I'll carry you in my heart during this difficult time. Peace to you.



As for feeling numb, that sounds perfectly reasonable. You've been through a lot in the last two weeks and it makes sense that your system would need some "down time" to recover a bit. Nature has its ways of protecting us, and if you feel numb then trust that it is how you "need" to feel right now--ok?




Laura

BlueIris

(29,135 posts)
37. Ohhhh, Pink. I am very sorry for your loss.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 04:47 AM
Jan 2012

Yes, I think the numbness is normal. Grieving is a process, and that first phase is usually relatively unemotional, I found.

We are here for you.

Tsiyu

(18,186 posts)
38. Wow that's a longterm marriage
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 10:15 AM
Jan 2012

So sorry to hear that you lost him, PinkTiger.

I suppose you'll go through the stages of grief, as they call them. Numbness is one of them, maybe giving you time to be strong and process?

Hope you have a good day today

rosesaylavee

(12,126 posts)
39. So sorry to read of your loss
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 10:56 AM
Jan 2012

Numbness on the loss of someone close is normal or at least one way of dealing with it. I think we have natural resistance to pain both mental and physical.

Be well and know that you are loved.

 

Remember Me

(1,532 posts)
41. Oh, I'm so sorry. My sincere condolences.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 12:13 AM
Jan 2012

Pink Tiger, it is "normal" to feel quite numb. You're in shock, and that may last a while.

Do you have children, family, people you can rely on a bit? If not -- or even if so -- it might be helpful to find a real life bereavement group, or a grief counselor or therapist. This is a really good time to do that loving thing for yourself.

Holding you in my thoughts and prayers.

R.M.

Edited to say: I since read your post that said you were going to seek out some support. GOOD for you.

Ecumenist

(6,086 posts)
43. Oh, Pink Tiger, I am so sorry.....
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 03:32 AM
Jan 2012

I'll light a candle for you tonight. God bless you....You and your family will be in my prayers.

icymist

(15,888 posts)
44. I am sorry for your loss.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 07:59 AM
Jan 2012

I work in a nursing home and see death all the time. I am inclined to ask if there is anything I can do for you? All i can say is what i know is that the loved one has passed into a better place. I greive with you.

yellerpup

(12,253 posts)
46. You are normal.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 11:08 AM
Jan 2012

I'm sorry for your loss. Bereavement has its own timetable and you are allowed to feel how you feel.

cate94

(2,810 posts)
47. I am so sorry
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 04:45 PM
Jan 2012

for your loss.

I think the numbness you are experiencing is a blessing. And you are completely normal. Grief comes in many stages, feeling numb is part of it.

murielm99

(30,736 posts)
48. I am so sorry.
Tue Jan 31, 2012, 03:03 AM
Jan 2012

Of course you are normal. Everyone's normal is different.

I lost my first husband when I was very young. Numb actually helps you get through the early days. You might hurt more later.

NuttyFluffers

(6,811 posts)
49. numb is normal. everything is normal during shock...
Tue Jan 31, 2012, 04:47 AM
Jan 2012

... as long as it is not permanent.

what a hard time it must be. and the best i can offer is condolences and the seemingly hollow advice to 'flow and embrace.' cold comfort, but what else is adequate?

/sending you love and light

peacefreak

(2,939 posts)
51. I am so sorry for your loss.
Tue Jan 31, 2012, 09:54 AM
Jan 2012

As others have said, there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Do what your heart tells you to do. Please know you are in my thoughts.

PinkTiger

(2,590 posts)
52. Thanks again, all
Tue Jan 31, 2012, 01:27 PM
Jan 2012

My numbness is starting to lift, and I'm starting to feel again. Not fully, but enough. I'm too busy, thank goodness, to wallow in self-pity and depression. The helicopters are hovering (Mom, kids, friends and Boss), so I'm OK.
I really appreciate all the replies. This group is so wonderful!

BlueToTheBone

(3,747 posts)
54. Pink Tiger!
Thu Feb 9, 2012, 02:57 PM
Feb 2012

I wanted to check in with you. This first year is so strange and difficult. I wanted to let you know that you are loved and not alone.

My best friend went a bit overboard when her husband suddenly died; and while he left he with a comfortable amount of money, she is now rather broke. Please breathe before any decision for awhile. I can only imagine the pain that you are in; but no amount of doing will bring him home. Please care for yourself. Be gentle, don't rush.

rbnyc

(17,045 posts)
56. hey
Fri Feb 10, 2012, 06:00 PM
Feb 2012

Glad you posted here.

Really, I think any way you are feeling is normal. How you feel and how you are getting by today, tomorrow, ten years from now...there's not really a normal.

You are OK.

I'm sure you'll go through a whole range of feelings, where you actually feel OK and where you really don't, where everything is numb and everything is really sharp. I hope you keep reaching out to friends and talking about how you feel.

Love & Light,

R

Latest Discussions»Culture Forums»Astrology, Spirituality & Alternative Healing»My husband died Jan 14