For 53 years, Dale and Helen built a life together, sharing everyday moments and milestones. She was not just his soulmate but his best friend. In January 2024, Helen passed away after just two months of illness. She was 72. The sudden loss left Dale feeling lost and uncertain about how to move forward. “I felt lost without her,” Dale recalls. “She was not only my wife but my soulmate and best friend.”
Grief can feel overwhelming, but having the right support makes a difference. A friend of Dale’s son suggested he contact Burnaby Hospice Society for grief counselling. “Thankfully, a very good friend of my son suggested that I contact Burnaby Hospice Society for grief counselling.”
Taking that first step was difficult, but Dale soon realized he had found a place where he could talk openly about his loss. “The counsellor I had was marvelous,” he says. “These sessions allowed me to grieve in a safe and healthy environment in my own way.”
Over time, Dale found that the support from Burnaby Hospice Society helped him navigate his grief. The counselling sessions provided a space to process his emotions, and the ongoing programs offered continued support. Nine months later, he still benefits from the resources available.
“I will always miss Helen, but I know she would want me to carry on remembering all the good memories we shared.”
Losing a loved one is never easy, but Dale wants others to know they don’t have to go through it alone. “For anyone facing the loss of a loved one, I strongly encourage you to reach out to Burnaby Hospice Society. Their support has been invaluable during the most difficult time of my life.”
"In January 2024, my wife of 53 years passed away after only two months of illness. Helen was just 72. Her sudden death left me shattered—she was not only my wife but my soulmate and best friend. We did everything together, and I felt lost without her.
Thankfully, a very good friend of my son suggested that I contact Burnaby Hospice Society for grief counselling. The counsellor I had was marvelous and these sessions allowed me to grieve in a safe and healthy environment in my own way. Even now, nine months later, the Burnaby Hospice Society continues to support me through various programs, helping me move forward with my life.
I will always miss Helen, but I know she would want me to carry on remembering all the good memories we shared. For anyone facing the loss of a loved one, I strongly encourage you to reach out to Burnaby Hospice Society. Their support has been invaluable during the most difficult time of my life."
Grief is different for everyone, but having a compassionate community can help make the journey a little easier. If you or someone you know is struggling with loss and is a Burnaby resident, call 604-520-5087 or email info@burnabyhospice.org for counselling services.
Blog Story by Marketing and Communications, Burnaby Hospice Society
