7 Comments

Emily, your writing is so very brave and beautiful. The paintings too. Each word and brush stroke is a testament to Neve.

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Dear Emily, such warmth and beauty in these words, when you talk about something so painful. I don't know how you do it. I hope you and J, and your other girls are doing okay X

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Such a loss, such sorrow so beautifully expressed ❤️

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SO SAD TO READ ABOUT THE LITTLE GIRL,LIFE IS SO CRUEL I WISH YOU ALL THE BEST.

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Such beautiful words Emily and a real testament to Neve and your family that those precious 40 hours were conducted in that way. I can see why you are raising funds for such an important piece of equipment so that other grieving families are afforded real choice in the most terrible of circumstances, Sandra xx

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How sad but so beautiful that Neve was kept at home after dying. So lovely that there was time for all those who loved Neve to say their last goodbyes . My friends mother died in hospital and the family asked to take her home . It is not for everyone. My father died at home the undertakers came embalmed him . He looked serene and all his friends visited to say their goodbyes . This is how it was done in Ireland and not so long ago . Although I did not have much love for father it did leave me thinking how lovely and respectful it can be .

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My mama heart aches for your mama heart. Your words are a gift, an offering so seldom given. Parting with the physical presence of a deep, deep love is akin to tearing away one of our own limbs, excruciating and impossible to imagine. That you "happened" into those 40 hours (I use quotes because it often feels that such occurrences are more than mere chance) and that you allowed that to unfold as it did is evidence to me of a beautiful, transcendent wisdom. I know you know that there was a time when this was a common practice, and it's one for which I have much appreciation. Though it can't compare to your experience, it's one I have practiced with pets. Having that time to commune, to see and feel that the energy has left the vessel, transitioned to a new way of existing, to let the heart adjust--it somehow helps everything make just a little more sense or to at least ease us toward a willingness to let go.

I came upon your page and this piece unexpectedly last night. I'm not even sure now what path I followed that brought me here. I do know that I read about your Neve as I remembered my own, Niamh, a friend who lost her life to suicide on August 8, 2022. Like your sweet daughter, she was dark-haired and vibrant. A shiny being.

Sending continued courage and healing to you, Emily, and to the whole family and community of people whose love for Neve will never leave. Thank you.

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