I am truly sorry for each of your experiences, but I can't help but be angered by the one above. Grief, is a monster. While I was particularly close to my father, and he was older, and I had some warning, I was and remain devastated, lost and isolated. I have laughed. I have worked. I am so far from being the person I was though. If you read the books on grief, as the original poster did, you will learn this is all normal. You will, sadly, know this yourself one day. I am very sorry for the pain each of you have felt. I can tell you that I am ending a 12 year marriage since my Father's death. He wouldn't leave our issues alone for 5 minutes from the time before and after my loss and perhaps it might have made a difference. This was my Father - the books will tell you one's identity. Self-worth, etc, are impacted with the loss of a parent. Don't be too critical and don't blame yourselves. I wouldn't give up hope but I would walk away - be there if you can but occassionally and if asked.
