As Jackie and I set off for a drive this afternoon I received a phone call informing me of the death of Michael, my eldest son.
This was not expected. I can write no more now.
Ramblings
As Jackie and I set off for a drive this afternoon I received a phone call informing me of the death of Michael, my eldest son.
This was not expected. I can write no more now.
I don’t know what to say. I’m so very sorry.
Thanks very much, Alex
My deepest condolences to you both; Derrick.
Very many thanks, Keith
So sorry to hear this Derrick, you must be devastated
We are. Thanks very much for your continued interest, Nanie
I am so sorry to hear this, Derrick. I’ll be praying for you and your family. xo
Very many thanks, Jill
Oh, Derrick! The worst thing that can happen to a parent is for the child to die first. I am so very, very sorry. How you must be grieving.
Much appreciated, Laurie. Many thanks
Thinking of you and Jackie.
Very many thanks, Becky
Oh, Derrick, I am so sorry. Sending love and strength your way.
Very many thanks, Jodie
Oooh š® nooo…
So so so sorry š derrick..
Nothing is more worse than losing a child š¶….
Please try to stay strong…
Iām crying š¢ as I write this..
Feeling your emotional pain right now….
Words have no meaning right now…
But I know you will get through this because you have no other choice
Very many thanks, Nita. You understand
I too am very sorry to hear. I’ll be thinking of you and Jackie.
Very many thanks, Paul
Derrick and Jackie, we feel your pain, and our thoughts and prayers are with you, and your son Michael. A tree will be planted here on our farm in your son’s memory, as we did for GP Cox’s son Michael.
Very many thanks, Lavinia. Much appreciated
Please know I will be thinking of you and Jackie in the days to come. I am so sorry.
Very many thanks, Flower
So sorry to hear this, Derrick.
Thanks very much, Alex
With sincere condolences Derrick, from both of us. Wishing we could express our true heartfelt shock at your unexpected, unbelieveable news. Our thoughts are with you and all your family members whom we’ve come to ‘know’ through your wonderful writing. Alan & Annette
Thank you so much, both of you.
Oh no, Derrick. Iām so, so sorry.
Thank you very much for this, Marina
Thinking of you…
Crying with you, Derrick and Jackie. Much love and prayers for you as you go through this worst thing ever, from both of us
Very many thanks for your kind words, Pleasant
I don’t know what else to say, Derrick, except that I’m truly sorry for your loss. Something that no parent should ever have to write. I wish I could do something for you and your family. . .I know nothing except time will lesson the grief, but I will be thinking of you.
Your thoughts and words are much appreciated, Merril X
Dear Derrick, I will keep you and Michael in my thoughts. My condolence to you and the family. Lots of love and hugs, Mx
Very many thanks, Mary. Much appreciated X
Derrick, so sorry to hear your devastating news. Many condolences.
Very many thanks, Sheree. Much appreciated
Derrick, I simply have no words to share with you about such a tragedy!
Your thoughts are enough. Andrew. Many thanks
Oh, Derrick. That’s just devastating. I can’t imagine what you and Jackie, your whole family, are going through. Nothing is more important than the people we love; we are lucky that they came into our lives, and stayed awhile. Look after yourselves, old chap… Mike.
Very many thanks, Mike. I appreciate your words
That is a stunning blow, my dear friend. My thoughts are with you in these dark hours.
Thank you so much, Uma.
I’m saddened by your news, Derrick. May you and your family find comfort in each other <3
Very many thanks, Rosaliene X
My thoughts are with you x
Very many thanks, Jessica X
Oh my. Not sure any scribble here helps but i can understand how stunning and ghastly this news must be. I just add to everyone else’s thoughts and condolences in the small hope that their aggregation might help in some small way.
All much appreciated, Geoff. Thank you
I am so sorry for your loss and wish the best to you and to your family. My prayers and best wishes are with you.
Thank you so much, Donnalee
There are no words that can explain the sorrow and pain I feel for the loss of your son Derrick…
So very many thanks, Efi
Holding you and your family in my heart, dear Derrick…
Very many thanks, Donna. Much appreciated
Dear Derrick, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are going out to you and yours. Thinking of you! xoxoxo
Much appreciated, Lynn. Thank you very much
I am so so sorry. Sending you love from all of us at this heartbreaking news. Xxx
Very many thanks, Stephanie XX
No words…. carrying you and yours in my heart, Derrick. No parent should have to experience this – ever… I’m so very sorry for such a tragic loss. Hugs to you and your family.
Very many thanks, Anna. Much appreciated
Sending you all love from afar. I can’t imagine the pain… <3
X
NO – you should never have to write these words – I am so sorry such a loss as this has come to your house Derrick. You are all held in my heart xoxo
Fully appreciated, Pauline. XX
I’m so sorry.. I dont know what to say… I am crushed for you and jackie…
Very many thanks for these thoughts, Vicki
So sorry to hear Derrick. Thinking of you and the family. Sending love and strength xx
Very many thanks, Angela XX
Terrible news – What a parent dreads. Condolences – take care of each other. May your family find strength in each other.
We will, Joseph. Many thanks, indeed
Oh, Iām horrified and so very sorry, Derrick. I just canāt imagine how devastated you all must be. Big hugs and much love to you and your family. xx
Very many thanks, Sylvia. Much appreciated XX
Oh Derrick, I was so shocked to read this post. Sending you, Jackie and the rest of your family my sincerest condolences on the loss of your son Michael. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I am heartbroken for you all x
Thank you so much, June XX
I cannot imagin the pain you must be enduring , my thoughts are with h you .
Thank you so much for those thoughts, Graham
I am so sorry Derrick, I have spoken to Becky this afternoon. Was devastated to read about Mike and still so shocked. Sending lots of love to you all.
Thank you so much, Alda XX
So sorry to hear such sad news, Derrick. I can only wish you will find solace in positive memories.
A good thought, Roland. Many thanks
Iām so very sorry. Will be thinking of you .
Very many thanks, Jenny
Oh, that’s terrible, Derrick. I’m so sorry. (No need to reply.)
You deserve a reply, Val. Thank you very much
Whereās the sad button when I need it? I canāt click ālikeā obviously! Itās impossible to imagine your pain. Surely there is no pain worse than that associated with losing a child. My heart ā¤ļø goes out to you. š š May the love of Family and friends and the beautiful memories of happier days sustain you. Have faith. You shall meet again! šš½šāØ
Very many thanks, Jan. Your thoughts are much appreciated
Oh my God. What a sad news. My condolences to you and your family dear Derrick.<3
Thank you very much, Laleh
<3<3<3
Lavinia Ross just commented on my site to inform me of this horrendous event. I know words will never fill the void you are feeling, but please know I’m here for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Very many thanks, GP. Fully understood
So so sorry for you and your family for your loss
Very many thanks, Maureen XX
Oh Derrick. Adding words to this list of those who love you seems not nearly enough. If I could just hug you both right now that is what I would wish most to do. Words fail me as they must you. You are very, very loved by so many here, including myself. I wish more than anything to take away your pain. You are without doubt one of the very kindest, most merciful and good souls I have had the pleasure to know these past years. I believe in love, and I believe in you. I am so very, very sorry Derrick my friend.
Wonderfully kind words, GreenEyedGirl. Very many thanks
Oh, no! š
I so very very very sorry to hear this, Derrick! š
This is so shocking and so terrible! š
Please know that you, Jackie, your Mum, Elizabeth, and all of your family members are in my thoughts and prayers. Many of us love and care about your family and we stand by your side, we cry with you. You are not alone.
(((HUGS)))
Very many thanks, Carolyn. I feel the closeness. We have, incidentally found a care home for Mum – she goes for a 12 week trial on 25th. X
You’re welcome, Derrick.
And thank you for letting me know about your Mum. She is continually in my thoughts and bestest wishes and prayers.
I am so, so very sorry.
Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Much love xxx
Very many thanks, Melanie. You certainly would know XX
Words fail me, too, Derrick. Iām so sorry.
Thank you so much, Helen
My thoughts are with you and your family.
speechless, and my heart hurts for you. I will be sending up prayers and hope your family privacy will be honored in this time…
Thanks very much, maw
I’m so sorry to hear your sad news. All our thoughts are with you and your family.
Very many thanks, John
Sincerest and deepest condolences to you Derrick, truly saddened for you.
Thank you very much, Ian
I’m so very sorry, Derrick. I can only say that you and your family are in all our thoughts.
Very many thanks, Oglach
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.May you find comfort in God and the strength he brings.
Thank you very much, Deboemman
We’ve never met and you don’t know me but please accept my condolences on your loss of your son.
Very many thanks, Max
Heartbreaking news. May good memories help to sustain you through this tragedy.
Many thanks, Peggy
That is such a devastating blow to you and your family, Derrick. May the love and support of your family and friends bring you safely through this terrible time.
Very many thanks, Yvonne. You and my other blogging friends help
I am so very sorry, prayers for your family in this difficult time.
Thank you very much, Marsha
Derrick and Jackie. I am so sorry. Condolences to you and your family. Chris and Ro.
Very many thanks from us both, Chris and Ro
Oh Derrick. My heart is breaking for you and your family. So very sorry to hear this.
So very many thanks, Leslie
I wish there was something I could do. Just know youāre in my prayers.
I do, indeed
hi Derrick and Jackie, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers … a tough time but also many good memories to reflect on …
Thanks very much, Kate
hey as a retired social worker you know all the jargon but nothing prepares you for this .. take are of each other!
Sending you love and light <3
Many thanks, Kate. I just fished this one out of the spam
Oh, how dreadful. I’m very sorry, indeed!
Very many thanks, Cindy
Sorry to here of your loss. Praying for your family in these dark days.
Thank you very much, Mrs W.
Your welcome
I learn your awful loss by Carolyn .
No words can say how you are torn.
I send you all my condolences
Thank you very much, Michel
I am so so sorry.
Very many thanks, Dad
Derrick, I’m so sorry for you and Jackie. You and your whole family will be in my thoughts.
Thank you very much from us all, Linda
I’m so sorry, Derrick. Losing a child is the hardest loss no matter how old they are. My heart is heavy and tears fill my eyes as I pray for you and your family.
Very many thanks, JoAnna.
<3
I am so very sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for your family.
Thank you very much, Brenda
my deepest sympathy, you and your family are in my prayers.
Very many thanks, Dymoon
So sorry for your loss.
Gerard
Thank you very much, Gerard
sorry for your horrible loss.
Thank you very much, Promise
Derrick I’m so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine receiving a call like that about one of my children. You and your family will be in my thoughts.
Very many thanks, Carol
Derrick I am devastated for you. Bill and I have also experienced the loss of a son. There is no sense in our children going before us, and it sounds as if, as it was for us, that the news has come completely out of the blue. What a shock. You and Jackie are in my thoughts in this terrible time.
Very many thanks, Gwen. As you say, completely out of the blue. We thank you for your solidarity
I’m heartbroken for you.
XX
Derrick and Jackie, this very sad news breaks my heart and my tears immediately flowed. . . So very sorry to hear of this, dear friends. Sending hopes, hugs and prayers your way.
Thank you very much from us both, Robin
Amidst the chaos of work, I thought of you, and what Iāve just read shatters my heart into pieces. My most sincere condolences to you and your lovely family, Sir Knight. ā¤ļø
Very many thanks, Rose. For your words and your thoughts
I hesitated to join the ‘Like’ list, but know you will take it as an indication of support.
This is dreadful news, and you have my most heartfelt sympathy. Condolences to you and your family.
Very many thanks, Leslie. Fully understood
Many prayers for you and your family. Iāve said and will continue to pray for you and your family.
Iām so very sorry for your loss. Sincerely.
Very many thanks, Suz.
I am so sorry to hear of the sad loss of Michael. You and your family have my deepest sympathy.
Very many thanks, Sue
This is such a terrible thing for a parent to have to write. May I offer the most heartfelt sympathy Derrrick? With warmest wishes, John
Thank you very much, John
Terrible news, Derrick. Words won’t help, but I’m thinking of you and of my own experience.
These are not good moments.
Very many thanks, Frank
That is a terrible thing and one we could never be prepared well enough for.
My sincerest condolences to you and Jackie and all your family, Derrick.
I wish you all the strength you may need to best deal with such grief.
Very many thanks from us all, Bob
Oh, Derrick – it was such a shock to come from hellebores to find this. I have a tear in my eye writing – I can’t imagine how you all must be feeling. I’m so very sorry.
Very many thanks, Susan
I am terribly sorry. Please know you are in our thoughts.
Very many thanks, T Ibara
Oh My God Derrrick. Just saw this post (missed it yesterday). I am so sorry to her about the sudden death of your dear Son. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and the rest of your family. It’s hard enough to lose a loved one, but more difficult when it is one of your offspring. May God watch over your son Michael in his new journey to eternal life in heaven. I know Michael’s spirit will remain with you always. Again, so sorry Derrick. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. God Bless.
Very many thanks, Gary, for these apt, kind, words
I am so very sorry to hear that Derrick. There are no words for that situation.
Thank you very much, Sylvie
Thanks very much, GP
Any words I might say have already been eloquently said. My heart cries for you and your family. I pray Godās comfort, peace.
Thanks very much, ekurie
So sorry to hear about this Derrick. May his soul rest in peace. God bless you and your family.
Thank you very much, Arlene
My condolences. No words can express how I feel for you and how you and your family must feel.
Thank you very much, indeed. Sherry
So, so very sorry for you and yours. Take care. XOXO
Thanks very much, Sandra X
I’m very sorry for your loss. I learned of it from Carolyn’s site. *hugs*
Thank you very much Nocturnal Twins
It really is true, no parent should have to bury their child. I will put a candle on my altar for you and Jackie, and all who held your son lovingly in their hearts.
Very many thanks, Widders X
This is not the natural order of things, Derrick. So sad to read this news and my heart goes out to you and your family. You are in my thoughts.
Very many thanks, Susanne. Much appreciated
Losing a child can only be described as one of life’s greatest tragedies. I’m so very, very sorry you have had this happen in your family. My thoughts are with you, Derrick and Jackie.
Very many thanks, Diane. Much appreciated
The situation every parent fears is now upon your family. I’m so sorry for your loss and can only pray for your strength to face the coming days. A hope too, that your pain will eventually be replaced with fond memories.
Thank you very much, John
Very sorry to hear this news Derrick. I can’t really think of anything to say that will help.
Very many thanks, Quercus
I am so sorry about your eldest son. This is every parent’s worst nightmare. All I can do is add my sorrow to your own. I do not know you save through your blog, but , all the same, I feel for you and your family. I am sorry that you will have to go through unbearable grief. My thoughts are with you.
Thank you very much, Getting real. Your thoughts are much appreciated
Oh no Derrick I’m so very sorry to hear this. Sending love your way, my deepest sympathy…
Thank you veery much indeed, Julie
I cannot imagine how you and Jackie must be feeling, and dread the thought of having to go through it myself. I’m sorry to hear of the loss of your son, it doesn’t seem fair.
This is much appreciated, Brian. I thank you
I’m so sorry for your loss, Derrick. My deepest thoughts are with you.
Very many thanks, Byung
I am so sorry to hear that, Derrick. Please accept my deepest condolences on your tragic loss.
Most sincerely,
Dolly
Very many thanks, Dolly. Much appreciated
Oh, Derrick, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. šā¤ļø
Very many thanks, Dorinda X
There are no words… If I were closer I’d come over and just give you a hug. <3
X
Carolyn said go here and smile so here I am with a smile ….. okay but grimace… but I hope goodness returns
Very many thanks, Starman. Much appreciated
Thanks very much for this
First I’ve seen your post Derrick, only heartfelt sorrow at reading of your son Michael’s passing. I’m heart broken for you and your family.
Very many thanks, Mary
My heart aches. The loss of a child is like no other loss.
Thank you very much, A.G.
So sorry Derrick
Thank you very much, John
Derrick, Iām so shocked and saddened for you both. My deepest condolences š
Very many thanks, Miriam
I am very sorry to hear that Derrick. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Very many thanks, Rupali
Derrick, I am so sorry to hear this. Please accept my sympathies for you and your family. I will put you in my prayers.
Very many thanks, Lisa. I really appreciate this
My deepest sympathies and condolences to you and Jackie. Sending you and your family love and prayers.
Very many thanks, Cindy
I am so very sorry, Derrick. You are in my prayers.
Very many thanks, Clare
<3
Iām so sorry! What a horrible shock!
Thank you very much, Lisa
Carolyn (doesitevenmatter) sent me here. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have no words. You and your family are in my prayers. Elizabeth
Very many thanks, Elizabeth
My heartfelt thoughts are with you Derrick.
Very many thanks, Lindsey
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Our sympathies and sincere condolences.
Thank you very much, my friends LL/PS
Iām sorry to read this heartbreaking news, Derrick. Please accept my deepest condolences. x
Very many thanks, Cheryl
It is very sad and painful. I heard through “Carlyn” and I pray for you and everyone, who are going through this pain.
Thank you very much, Coco
Derrick, I am so so sorry and sending huge condolences and will be praying for all of you and especially that you find some sense it everything.
Thank you so much, Geraldine. We’ve both had our share. XX
Derrick,
I can’t believe you have lost your son. Of course, you cannot write. I feel so sorry for you and for Jackie. My most sincere condolences. Love to both of you. ā¤
Very many thanks, Micheline X
Derrick,
It so saddens me to know that your son died. Allow me to express my deepest condolences.
I will be thinking of you and Jackie. It’s a tragedy in your life, the life of a good father, and in Jackie’s life, the life a good wife and dearest companion. X
š X
Derrick – I have no words to tell you how sorry I am for you and Jackie. Just yesterday I read one of your latest posts where you mentioned the freckles. I was somehow prompted to go back and read more of your older posts, and here I found this heartbreaking announcement. Sending love and my deepest condolences. Through your blog, you and your family have become dear to me.
Very many thanks, Inese, especially for the last sentence X
<3
Because I have not been able to read too many blog posts in the last few weeks I missed this tragic event. I can’t tell you how bad I feel for you and Jackie, Derrick. May Michael rest in peace and his memory be a blessing to you. Many hugs from Arizona.
Very many thanks, Luanne. It is good that you now know
Derrick, I just read this and I apologize for the late remarks. I can only offer my sincere condolences, Derrick. We have become friends thru IG, and friends grieve for each other Iām certain moments. This is one moment when my heart feels your sadness. Please stay strong as you and your family work through your own grieving. Take care, Steve
So many thanks, Steve
Derrick and Jackie, I did not read this until today. I was catching up on all I had missed over the last several weeks. I have no words that can help you bear the loss. I send you love.
Very many thanks, Gael. I am pleased you are catching up – you have been very busy elsewhere, I know
Busy and under the weather. But I am better and back at the exercising. Had a couple of weeks off of singing which helped. My thoughts are with you. I send on (probably badly paraphrased) Joe Biden’s words: One day the smile will come before the tears. I found them to be very true. Peace, my friend.
Good thoughts, Gael. X