Advice - Christmas bereavement

[WorldEndingFire]

A dear friend lost their parent at a reasonably young age to sudden illness last year on Christmas Day. They live too far away to visit but I want them to know that I'm thinking of them without dredging up pain unnecessarily at what must be a difficult first Christmas without them. I've sent a message today to just say that I am thinking of them but want to be a good friend. WWYD?

That message says it. I promise. those who remembered it was my first christmas without my mum the messages meant the world to me.

You've done exactly the right thing, and I'm sure they appreciate that you are in their thoughts. You are a lovely friend.

*they are in your thoughts

A message is fine. DH lost his brother a year ago today, the little texts or a card from people just to say they're thinking of him have meant SO much.