If you are missing someone special this Father's Day

Janet and Adam Fanaki.

Like any other special day in the year, Father’s Day can be both happy and terribly sad for many people.

Losing one’s dad, husband or child can make this day very difficult to navigate alone. 

In February 2020, I lost my husband Adam to brain cancer. He was 51 years old, the father to our two children Isobel and Sam,  enjoyed a thriving practice as a respected lawyer, colleague and friend to many around the world.

Father’s Day continues to be a tricky one for me to navigate. The first year without him was really hard.

The kids and I have had to learn to manage the special days of the year in new ways.

There are many people around the globe who are missing their special someone. War, disease, estrangement or divorce are just a few examples.  

I have learned to cope with special days of the year like Father's Day. It doesn't make it better, but it does make it easier.

Here are some of the things that have helped me and could help you:

• Start a new tradition that still pays homage to them like enjoying his favourite meal on Father’s Day and raising a glass in his honour
  
• Practice self-care for the day - do what feels right for you and your family
  
• Tap into virtual communities that offer gatherings online
  
• For friends looking to help, offer to spend time together or drop-off a treat
  
• Volunteer at an organisation that was meaningful to your loved one
  

 
If you're having a hard time as Father's Day approaches, you are not alone. Please let others know how you are feeling and let them do something nice for you. 

It will help to build your resilience while also making them feel good too.