You may find that doing something special to remember the person gives you and others comfort. Here are some ideas that other people have found helpful.
 | Talk about the person who diedSharing your memories with other people can help you cope, and you may learn something new about the person. |
 | Create a tribute pageShare stories and photos on an online memorial page. |
 | Make a memory boxA memory box is a place to keep thing that remind you of the person. You could include photos; a favourite item of clothing, such as a cap or scarf; a bottle of perfume or aftershave; letters or cards; a special recipe; and a record of memories of the person. |
 | Establish an awardYou could set up a memorial prize or scholarship in the name of the person. |
 | Enjoy what they likedYou may cook their favourite meal on their birthday or anniversary; buy their favourite flowers or drink on the anniversary of their death; or share a meal with family and friends on significant days. |
 | Get creativeUse some of their clothing to create a quilt, cushion cover or memory bear; or paint or draw a picture. |
 | Get involved in a cause or make a donation to a charityMany people feel motivated to become involved in an organisation that was special to the person. Others want to raise awareness or fundraise for a charity that helps people with cancer. |
 | Frame photos or create a photobookAside from your favourite photos, you could frame a cherished handwritten note or memento. |
 | Plant a tree, plant or flowersCreate a special area to visit when you want to feel close to the person. |
 | Be preparedPlan ahead for occasions that might be difficult such as birthdays, theanniversary of the death, and holidays. |
 | Create special ritualsRituals can help you acknowledge a loss, particularly at challenging times such as anniversaries. You could light a candle, listen to special music, visit a certain place or cook their favourite meal. |
 | Remember shared goalsConsider if you still want to do the things you were going to do together |
→ READ MORE: How to help someone who is grieving
Podcast: Coping with Grief
Listen to more episodes from our podcast for people affected by cancer
More resources
A/Prof Lisa Beatty, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology and Consulting Clinical Psychologist, Flinders University Institute of Mental Health and Wellbeing, SA; Sandra Anderson, Consumer; Dr Alexandra Clinch, Palliative Medicine Specialist and Deputy Director, Palliative Care, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, VIC; Christopher Hall, Chief Executive Officer, Grief Australia; Nathan MacArthur, Specialist Grief Counsellor and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Sydney Grief Counselling Services, NSW; Linda Magann, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Palliative Care, St George Hospital, NSW; Palliative Care Australia; Richard Upton, Consumer; Lesley Woods, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
