Several months ago, I had the honor of helping a family where the wife passed away and the husband was moving from the home they built together to a retirement community.
Her children came from out of town a couple of times to help sort and pack up the things from her side of the family. As we reached one of the closets, the daughter pulled out a beautiful dress and began to share the story.
Mom was a slender and striking woman with beautiful silver hair and always dressed impeccably. In fact, she had been a model in her younger years. And this was the dress she wore for her step-son's wedding. A true beauty (both Mom and the dress)!
Unfortunately, her illness progressed. But prior to her passing she shared her wishes that when the time came, it was THE dress she wanted to be buried in.
Many details and emotions to juggle when a loved one passes away. Message was relayed that Mom wanted to be buried in the "green dress". Enter the HICCUPS. (Obviously Mom wasn't buried in the dress because how would I have been able to post a picture.) Oops...the wrong green dress was selected and sent to the funeral home. The family thought "what's done is done. Either we'll give it away or find a friend who wants it."
I had learned about a company called Without-End that makes custom memorial pillows from a loved one's favorite article of clothing. Deb Alexander is an amazing woman - passionate about helping, compassionate in her approach and creatively respectful of a loved one's belongings while transforming them into a beautiful living memorial that can be held, touched and cherished.
What a perfect way to give new life to a dress that was to be buried, never to be seen again! And a wonderful way for her daughter to remember her mother.
Thank you Deb!
For more information on how A Stress-Less Transition, LLC can help you or an older adult, please visit our website.
