The Tiny Widow

The sudden and tragic loss of my husband, Derrick Sr, in 2021 brought profound grief to our family. I was engulfed by pain, loneliness, and depression, confronting the darkest period of my life. Finding myself a widow at 36 with three children intensified my despair. Moreover, I encountered a silence from others that was new to me. This silence is a common reaction, as many struggle to find the right words or fear saying something wrong. Breaking this silence is essential, fostering open conversations about grief and its impact. I advocate strongly for allowing myself to feel whatever emotions arise. On the days when grief overwhelms me, I embrace it proudly. And on the days when I feel the weight of widowhood without depression, I wear that identity proudly too.