They say it comes in 3s and if the last 3 weeks are any example then that is definately true.
My BFF's Aunt Better Lou - a delightful character that I have known for seveal years was put in hospice. That said, she seemed to be comfortable and wanted to stay around until at least Christmas. Unfortunately that wasn't the case and she passed away 2 days before thanksgiving.
Then my brother, Joe, was put in the hospital with a combination of Covid and Legionnairres Disease (I KNOW RIGHT??? Haven't heard about that for 15 years or more). Unfortunately, the combination of the two just drove over him like a loaded Peterbuilt heading down a mountain then suddenly heading for the runaway ramp. He went to his peace about a week later.
My Aunt Barbara - ok she is actually my first cousin once removed, but what kid can understand that? We always called my parent's contemporaries 'Aunt' or 'Uncle' so that's how it stays. She had a rare form of cancer and headed to her next adventure just before Thanksgiving.
OK that's three, right? Well there have been other sudden loses, but these three for me are closest because I have visited their home or shared several meals with them.
So why am I babbling (once again) about it? Well it is because for the most part, these were (for me) utterly unexpected and I didn't have a chance to see any of them and say goodby. Believe me, no matter what your relationship with the person, it feel very surreal and other worldly when it comes out of the blue.
Everyone is effected in different ways - some folks are all about getting everyone to arrange their arrangements now and make sure everyone knows about them. Some can't even here the persons name because the emotions are a hot knife in their heart. Others want to give up all the activities they used to do with the deceased because 'it won't be the same without them'. Some have no clue what to do so they write things and make photo presentations in an attempt to let it settle in as reality.
Each person grieves in their own way, once they figure out how they need to grieve because its different everytime.
YES it comes in 3s and it's horrible and senseless and anger-induing and hurts all over. Just know - you are not alone and comfort is here when you are ready.
If you'd like to see the presentation I did, go here: https://www.krismcg.com/in-memoriam