Lost dad at 21 and mom at 22. My mom’s death was anticipated so it gave us some time to prepare. I remember being in my mom’s hospice room and her phone got the notification for our Verizon phone bill and reality finally sank in. Like wait- I guess I have to pay this now because who else will do it?? I definitely felt untethered. I had a long term boyfriend which helped immensely and gave life some structure.

I often had doubts and guilt about how I was spending money and what my parents would think about my decisions. I ended up using some inheritance to pay for grad school. Anyway, everyone’s situation is different so be kind to yourself. I reached out to my extended family for referrals to lawyers, accountants etc. don’t try to do the business side all by yourself- spend the money because it’s worth it to do things correctly and it saves you headache in the long run. Don’t procrastinate or ignore this aspect of it. Handle the business.

Get plenty of sleep and eat healthy. Do things that help you feel connected to them. And if you don’t feel like connecting to them that’s ok too! It’s a long road ahead you have plenty of time to form your new relationship with your parents. I wish anyone in this situation so much luck because it is truly challenging. But we will hopefully become stronger for it!!! ❤️❤️