Dawn, all you can do is take each day at a time -- I know it is hard -- at the beginning you are numb. Don't ever think you forget and I mean that in the most positve way. I think of my mom (and dad) all the time. They were wonderful parents, people, and friends. One of the hardest times for me was on December 8th, 2011 when I was told I had breast cancer --- I wanted my mom and I needed my mom. In the end, I believe I had a angel looking out for me. Please keep your mom alive in your heart by telling stories about her and laughing about the fun things you did together. This is ok. That is what makes it easier -- the happy memories and the sense that they are with you all the time. Give yourself permission to be happy again.

Dawn, I am sorry that you are feeling this pain and guilt. I too have lost my mother and it is so unfair. As Cheri said, I was angry, hurt and lonely but never guilty --- I did everything I could to be a good daughter, before and after she was sick and spent valuable and special time with my mom. I think from reading what you said about your mom, you did the very same thing. So as Cheri said --- be angry, be hurt and be lonely but Dawn please do not be guilty -- you were a wonderful daughter and your mother would not want this.... you did nothing but make her life full. Please remember all the wonderful times you had with your mother --- I won't say it gets easier -- it just gets "different" ---
Joanne