What's the best to console a woman that lost her only child?

[Anonymous]

A family friend just lost her 26 year-old son to sudden cardiac arrest last week. She's 65 years old and he was her only child. Years ago he was her miracle baby (giving birth at age 39) because she's been struggling to get pregnant for many years and treatments failed on her. Then one day her husband and her were able to conceive naturally.

Now her miracle is gone and she's been talking about not wanting to continue with life. She doesn't want to speak to anyone. Is there a way to console an older woman that lost her only child?

[TrueConfection]

There is no way. But! What you can do is bring her something to eat (nothing elaborate or fancy, it's best to keep it very simple like soup).

If you have a close relationship, show up. She probably won't want to see you, but she'll need someone to get her out of bed and dressed. She needs to go through the motions. Just let her cry. It's perfectly ok and it's best if you don't try to cheer her up.

[Tyrael]

That's a terrible thing to happen. There's really not a lot you can do unfortunately.

I would just try and be there for her. Let her know she has support.

[Hulk_kitty]

Just be there for her, and help her when you can, but there is nothing you can say, that will help her. Just listen and not advise.

[Hulk_kitty]

Worst thing to say, is say you understand her, because you don't, if you have never been in that situation.

[Hulk_kitty]

just ask her if she wants help with getting shopping etc. that's all you can do.

[clampfan101]

Wow. My condolences. My only guess would be to pray for her.

[KrakenAttackin]

She will need actual grief counseling.