BANDAID

Walking out of Labcorp, I found myself giggling at a familiar ritual: sending a picture of my band-aid after getting bloodwork done. This small act was a tradition started by my dad years ago, a quirky way for us to connect after medical appointments. Despite us never using band-aids at home (because he saw them as a weakness), he insisted on this ritual, making it a staple in our family.

As I left the building, the habit of snapping a picture to send to my dad brought a smile to my face. But that smile quickly faded as I was hit with the stark reality that he’s no longer here. The wave of emotion was immediate and overwhelming, bringing tears to my eyes as I walked to my car. It’s moments like these that highlight the depth of our connections and the enduring presence of loved ones in our daily lives, even after they’re gone.

Grief is complex, often marked by unexpected reminders and the ache of absence in ordinary routines. The sudden realization that I could no longer send that picture to my dad was a punch to the gut, another daily reminder of the void his passing has left. Seeking solace, I sent the band-aid picture to my husband instead, keeping the tradition alive and finding comfort in his support.

This experience made me reflect on the importance of small rituals and how they help us navigate grief. Traditions connect us to our loved ones and provide continuity and comfort. Honoring these rituals keeps their spirit alive and helps us find new ways to connect and remember. Grief is not about letting go but finding a new way to hold on and celebrate the enduring impact of those we’ve lost.