The Weight of Emptiness

About the Book

This book is to bring comfort and hope to all those who have lost a loved one. Written in memory of my beautiful boy, Bruce whom I lost to suicide. He had many aspects to his character, the ‘dark’ and the ‘light’ just like the weight of emptiness which now lies in my heart, dark and heavy, often too heavy to bear. When you lose a loved one you may or will find yourself sobbing uncontrollably but please take comfort and know that through resilience and courage you can endure each day. Remember your loved one is free from pain. The weight will become ‘lighter’. Focus on your loved one’s smile and wonderful memories. Always remember your loved ones. Do not let their lives be in vain. For my boy, the words adapted from Johnny Nash say it all: ‘I can see clearly now the rain has gone, all of the bad feelings have disappeared Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind, I think I can make it now the pain is gone Here’s the rainbow I’ve been praying for, look all around there’s nothing but blue skies It’s gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day’

About the Author

Patricia lost her oldest son, Bruce, to suicide. As an inspirational speaker Patricia decided to share her loss on social media. Many people contacted her asking how she coped. Patricia realised the need for a book, where she could share her experience and bring comfort and hope to people who have been and are affected by suicide or loss of a loved one. It was a daunting task for Patricia to open her heart to what was the most devastating experience of her life. She needed time to grieve and find the right words for sharing such a personal trauma. Patricia’s vision was to empower and help individuals realise their true potential through courage and resilience so that they can endure the challenges of every day. A loved one should always be remembered so that their life is not in vain. Much as she desperately would love to have Bruce back in her life, she knows he is at peace. Patricia has been overwhelmed by the sharing of stories from others who have suffered loss of a loved one and is privileged and honoured to include them in this book. Patricia knows that sharing is caring and helps healing.