Is it appropriate to send someone a card on the anniversary of a death of a loved one?

Answer 1

I wouldn't put in writing, but make a call. It depends if it's going to upset the people and bring out a lot of sadness.

Answer 2

Well, I think something more personal and less "hallmark" would be better. Offer to take him/her out to lunch. Or bring some baked goods over to their place. Don't bring up the death unless they do, maybe say something to the effect of "Hey, I really care about you and if you ever need to talk, know that I'm here". Let them be the guide on how to behave. Some people will be in full bereavement mode while others will be trying to keep themselves busy and distracted. If they're up for it, some videos or going to a movie may be good. And if you're so far away that only a card is possible, try a phone call first. Don't send a card that's all death-themed and depressing. Pick a blank card with a nice picture on it, and write a personal note, again on the "I'm here for you if you need me" theme. Maybe you could include a gift certificate for their favorite restaurant? Or send them a "care package" in the mail?

Answer 3

Depends on the relationship, and how heavily the death clobbered the mourner. If the death was pretty recent---say, past year or two---a card near that time along the line of "thinking of you, and of soandso---boy, did we have some good laughs!" might be great. But if it's been multiple years, that might be pretty morbid. A lot is going to depend on how well you know the person, and what's going on in their life.

A phone call is always nice----you can get someone's emotional temperature over the phone, so to speak. Consider that as an option.

Answer 4

Absolutely. In psychology, many of us recognize the importance of the anniversary of someone's passing--formally such phenomenon is called "anniversary events." Although not limited to the anniversary of a death, death anniversaries are typically the most painful of those one can experience.

Sending a card on the anniversary of someone's demise to her survivors says a great deal about them, and about you as well.

Answer 5

I think it depends on the type of card you send. A nice "just thinking of you" may be appreciated by someone on the first of second anniversary of the death, but after that I wouldn't send one.

Answer 6

I would say that it is only appropriate if you know that the person who lost the loved one is still having trouble dealing with the loss.

It could be a nice gesture to say that the person is still in your mind, meaning that people haven't forgotten their family member.

However, if they have been able to move past this ordeal, it might be too painful to recieve a sympathy card, and remind them of the loss.

Answer 7

I agree with Bill. It seems a little too morbid to send a card. I would call the person (if you are close enough to them that it wouln't weird them out, like if you call them regularly anyway) and just do small talk and get a feel for how they are doing. I wouldn't bring it up unless they do (unless you are very close to them).

Answer 8

Were you close to the person who died? If so, tell your friend that you want to be with her that day, that you would like to see her. If you were not a friend of the person who died, be discreet about it, send them a card or call them out to lunch. Say "I was just thinking about you today"....or I was "missing you and wanted to see you today". Don't say "I want to send you a card because I know how hard today must be for you " if it's not so hard for you as well.

Answer 9

I think that it would be a lovely gesture. Instead of a "sorry for your loss card" why not send a "i'm thinking of you" card.

Answer 10

ive never heard of a happy deathday card! but hey i might just need to get out and about a bit more