My Uncle Died. I'm grateful and relieved

Just some of the emotions that come with the loss of a relative.

Apr 20, 2025

Hello, my wonderful subscribers. I’m so sorry that this week’s newsletter is so late.

I’ve had a super busy week, and my Uncle died a week ago today.

I really wanted to just take a little time to process things in my mind when I got the chance for some rest, family time and quiet time.

This week has been sad, but in all honesty, mostly I have felt relief and gratitude.

My Uncle had been poorly for a long time and had dementia. In recent months, he was always in bed and often very agitated.

So, yes, there is a huge sense of relief now that he is no longer suffering.

I’m also grateful that I had him in my life and grateful to all the lovely people who have helped take care of him over the past few years.

I thought I’d share a few things with you about him.

The luxury of fizzy pop.

When I was a child, my family didn’t have many luxuries, but my uncle used to buy Corona pop (fizzy drink), and I especially loved the Cherryade. The milkman delivered it once a week, and I thought it was the best thing ever.

water droplets on orange light — Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash

A wonderful friend to dogs

Later in life, my Uncle had a stroke. I’ve often said it turned out to be a good thing for him. He retired from work and had a stroke very soon after. This meant he couldn’t drive. So, instead, he walked and made sure he was out walking when all the dog walkers were out too. I can tell you that so many dogs in his village have loved him over the years. He always had a pocket of dog treats.

two white and brown dogs — Photo by Camilo Fierro on Unsplash

Muntjack for breakfast?!?

Recently, my mum and I visited him in the nursing home and told him that a Muntjac deer had walked into the road and I’d had to stop the car and wait for it to cross the road. A little later, I asked him what he’d had for breakfast. He couldn’t remember, and then a big grin appeared, and he said Muntjac. He definitely didn’t have that for breakfast or any other meal, but he clearly thought it was a funny thing to say. It was so nice to see the happiness on his face that day. It’s something my mum and I will remember and smile about when we think of him.

brown deer on green grass during daytime — Photo by Amee Fairbank-Brown on Unsplash

Thank you for the kind messages that I’ve received from those of you who already knew about my uncle.

Sending love and happiness out to you today.

And in honour of my uncle, if you have a pet give them an extra treat and hug today.

I believe that as he crossed over, there would have been a wonderful greeting from all the dogs, cats and other animals he’s befriended over the years.

Thank you for spending a little time with me today. I appreciate you.

Wendy xxx