I Thought I Had You Forever by Gary's Mum SEPTEMBER 2025 LTER

It’s tough to recommend a book about something as devastating as losing a child, but I Thought I Had You Forever by Gary's Mum is a rare and beautiful exception. This isn't just a story of loss; it's a powerful and deeply moving story of love, survival, and the slow, difficult journey back to the light.

What makes this book so special is its incredible honesty. It’s written not by a professional author or a grief counsellor, but simply by Gary's Mum. That detail alone tells you everything you need to know about the heart and soul of this book. It’s not a clinical guide to bereavement; it’s a hand to hold from someone who has walked the darkest path imaginable.

Drawing from the personal thought diaries she kept after her son's sudden passing, the author invites us into her most vulnerable moments. This format makes the experience incredibly raw and immediate. You feel the initial shock, the fog of the early weeks, and the crushing weight of the months that follow. She doesn’t sugar coat the pain or offer easy platitudes. Instead, she shares her authentic feelings, which is a profound gift to anyone new to this journey, assuring them that whatever they are feeling is valid.

But this book is far from a story of despair. The true magic of I Thought I Had You Forever lies in its message of hope. With gentle sensitivity, Gary's Mum shows us how, piece by piece, she began to find a purpose again. You witness her learning to navigate a world that has been permanently altered, facing anniversaries, holidays, and everyday moments with a new kind of strength. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of a mother’s love.

Who is this for?

While it is an essential lifeline for any parent coping with the loss of a child, I’d also recommend it to a wider audience. If you have a friend or family member who is grieving, this book offers invaluable insight into what they might be experiencing, helping you to offer more meaningful support.

I Thought I Had You Forever is a heartbreakingly beautiful read. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page, leaving you with a deep sense of compassion and a renewed appreciation for the strength it takes to heal. It’s a truly special book that offers guidance, comfort, and most importantly, hope. Highly recommended.