I lost one of my children unexpectedly. How should I explain that if people ask how many kids I have?

[Anonymous]

I only have my son now. This is so hard for me to talk about. When it comes up in conversation “how many kids do you have?” I just choke up and have no idea what to say. Any advice is helpful.

[RSav4013]

That has to be some tough... I'm so sorry for your loss and that is such an uncomfortable question that people don't realize they're asking.

If it were me, I'd say how I respond depends on my mood and the situation.

I might say "I have two children. My son/daughter (name) passed away 2 years ago and my son (name) is (age)."

If i wasn't interested in talking about it, or was feeling exhausted or if I read the room and it just didn't feel right I'd say "I have a son that is (age)"

If it's someone I was interested in talking to further, I might go back to them at a later time or when the mood felt right and explain about my other child.

[Anonymous]

That has to be difficult. I'm sorry.

You'll always have two children, but you might want to answer one unless you want to constantly talk about it and answer questions. I honestly can't know what you're going through, but maybe talking about your son will help.

[LaureenVO]

First of all, i'm sorry for your loss. Second of all, maybe just be honest about it. Tell them "I had 2 kids, but one of them sadly passed away. Right now I still have my son"

[ChicoFromThe305]

My condolences, you can reply with how many you have and say you actually lost one and then say you don't wanna talk about it and ask to change the subject anyone understandingbwouldnt think twice on changing the subject

[Drumlin2001]

Sorry for your loss. I can't imagine.
You have 2 children. That will never change.

[jahaims]

I personally would lie and say 1 to avoid the conversation