Please help me write a card of condolance for a family who have lost their 11 year old.

[cece]

That is it really. Their 11 year old son died today from Leukaemia, so expected, but still heart wrenching.

I would like suggestions of maybe a short poem or something else to write in the sympathy card and also a letter of condolance.

Thank you

Oh how hard and horrible, poor lad, poor family.

I am sure people have said before on these threads that all those "lovely" poems about being in a better place are actually awful to receive, there is no better place than in their family. I would go with a genuine I am so sorry for your loss.

Yes I'd keep it short as also don't like those poems. Just be there for them.

Yes, I would steer clear of any well meaning, sentimental poetry.
Just write what you would want to say- that you and your family will miss him , that you are thinking of them, and if writing a letter, include something specific you remember about their boy. It might be something funny or sweet he said or did either recently or in the past.

Those are the things which will matter

I read a comment somewhere and have used it a few times in similar circumstances..

"I/we hope that in time the strength of your happy memories will be more powerful than your feelings of loss"

Thank you.

It is quite difficult as he was a family member but they live in another country. I have met him but not many times but he was such a lovely boy.

I think not a poem but a memory - something that will cause them to smile in years to come if they reread the card. Personal and individual

How terribly sad.

sassy I like that idea. Thank you.

I never buy " With sympathy" cards but send nice soothing, peaceful landscapes. I find the "Sympathy" cards really awful, especially when they have a bit of poetry written in it.
I'd also keep short, there is not a lot you can say in those terrible circumstances.

I have found a lovely one that says

"Too young" on the front and "So very sorry" on the inside.