Iveta’s story - The importance of talking about grief

When I suddenly and unexpectedly lost my dad in October of 2023 at the age of only 16, It was the most life altering and isolating experience I have ever had to go through.

Due to the nature of his passing It was something I had never in my life even had a thought about. You see occasional stories online in which you sympathise with but you never in a million years think that could ever happen to you, until it does.

I had just started my a levels in college and within just the first few weeks my life had suddenly flipped upside down.

Nobody knew what to say or how to express their support due to the nature of not wanting to upset me or knowing what would be appropriate and by doing so it unintentionally didn’t get brought up at all and I was left feeling isolated and didn’t want to bring it up to anyone as to not create tension.

More awareness needs to be raised showing that what may seem an uncomfortable and potentially awkward conversation for you, may just be exactly what someone needs to keep them going through a time that is the most difficult.