Losing someone you love is one of life’s greatest challenges, and we are deeply sorry for your loss. Please know that you are not alone during this difficult time. The following provides information about the services and support available to you and your family. We hope these resources offer some comfort and help you navigate the days and weeks ahead.

We are here to help. To speak with a professional regarding end-of-life or bereavement issues, please call us at:

949-671-4950

Understanding Grief

Grief is a natural response to loss and can bring up many different emotions—all of which are normal. Everyone experiences grief in their own way. For some, it may feel very intense and last a long time; for others, it may be less intense or shorter in duration.

After losing someone you love, your grief will be unique to you. Recognizing and understanding the many emotions that come with loss can help make the days ahead a little more manageable. Be gentle with yourself, allow time to heal, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it.

In the First Few Days

Grief can feel overwhelming, and it’s okay not to have all the answers right now. Take things one step at a time and remember you don’t have to go through this alone. Lean on family, friends, or your care team for support, and move forward at a pace that feels right for you.

You may find it helpful to:

Notify close family members and friends.
Contact your or your loved one’s clergy member or spiritual advisor.
Reach out for help in planning funeral or memorial services, honoring your loved one's wishes.
It may be helpful to request several copies of the death certificate, as they are often needed for legal and financial matters in the days ahead.
When you feel ready, you may wish to write an obituary to honor and celebrate your loved one’s life. Your funeral home can help guide you through this process.

In the Weeks to Come

Over time, you may begin to address certain practical matters. There is no specific timeline. Take things at your own pace and handle one step at a time.

Locate important financial records, such as bank statements, safe deposit box details, and insurance policies.
Review estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, property titles, and deeds.
Identify online accounts, such as email, social media, and other digital services.
Contact relevant organizations and professionals, including the Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, employers, unions, insurance companies, attorneys, accountants, or financial advisors.
When you are ready, begin organizing personal belongings.

Honoring Your Loved One

Whether you choose a funeral, a celebration of life, or a memorial service at a later time, these moments can provide comfort and meaning. Speak with family and friends to ensure your loved one’s wishes are honored. If you prefer, a service can be planned when the time feels right.

Here are four steps that may help you begin the journey toward healing, when you feel ready:

It is natural to grieve and to carry the memory of your loved one with you. Accepting the reality of the loss takes time, and there is no right or wrong pace. Participating in a funeral, memorial, or celebration of life can offer support and a meaningful way to honor your loved one.

Grief can affect not only your emotions but also your body. Many people notice physical discomfort after the loss of a loved one. Pay attention to unusual or persistent symptoms and reach out to a healthcare professional if needed. Caring for your body is an important part of caring for yourself during this time.

Life may feel very different without the person you lost. Daily routines, relationships, and even your sense of spirituality may shift, sometimes in unexpected ways. Give yourself time to adjust and avoid making major life decisions until you feel ready. Patience with yourself is essential as you navigate this new reality.

Balancing grief with the process of moving forward can feel challenging. Memories of your loved one are precious and can continue to live on in meaningful ways. Finding special ways to honor them can help you heal while embracing life ahead.

At City of Hope, one tradition is our Wishing Tree Rock Gardens. You are welcome to paint a rock or hang a tag with your loved one’s name on our wishing tree, leaving it in our healing gardens on the Irvine Academic Cancer Campus at 1000 FivePoint, Irvine, CA 92618.

Caring for Yourself

Taking care of yourself is an important part of navigating grief and supporting your emotional and physical well-being.

Allow yourself to grieve in your own way and at your own pace.
Maintain a simple routine to provide structure and a sense of stability.
Nourish your body with healthy food, rest, and gentle movement.
Be mindful of substances that may intensify emotions or affect your mood.
Reach out to someone you trust or consider seeking support from a professional counselor or therapist.
Stay connected with friends and family members.
Schedule a medical checkup to ensure your physical health is cared for during this difficult time.

Additional OC Resources

Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | Wednesday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For help accessing City of Hope spiritual care and social work support and resources to help navigate the loss of a loved one, please contact:

949-671-4950