SPRINGFIELD TWP., Pa. (WPVI) — Explaining grief and loss to children can be difficult, especially when it’s the death of a parent.
A Delaware County mother is now a first-time author.
Jacqueline Hastings wrote “My Daddy is in the Sky” for her son Colton, who was an infant when his father passed away.
She said this book is for anyone who needs a reminder that loved ones who pass on, never truly leave.
It’s been four years since Hastings’ partner, Chris, died suddenly and unexpectedly.
“He was a funny guy,” Hastings said, “always so kind, helping others. He was truly the love of my life.”
Theirs is a blended family. It includes Chris’ daughter, Madison, Hastings’ son, Parker, and the son they shared, Colton. They are all working through this tragedy together.
“Chris passed away when Colton was three months old,” Hastings said. “I wrote this book to keep his memory alive and to help our children navigate the grief of loss.”
She made Colton the main character, as a way to help him stay close to the father he barely knew.
“My daddy is always with me,” Hastings read from the book. “He knows all that I do. He knows I love spaghetti and that my favorite color is blue.”
Colton is now four years old and growing.
“He will watch all of my games, whether I win or lose,” she continued, reading from the book. “My daddy will be cheering me on when I make my first home run.”
Hastings says she’s hoping this helps anyone who is grieving, especially children.
“It’s amazing to be able to turn my grief into something positive, and something that I know Chris will be really proud of,” she said.
Hastings is hosting a book signing on Saturday, August 23, at 12 p.m.
You can find the link to her book here.
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