Losing a spouse is one of life’s most painful and disorienting experiences. In the first year after such a loss, the days can feel overwhelming, filled with unfamiliar decisions, countless details, and emotions that seem to shift by the hour. It is natural to feel unprepared, uncertain, and even paralyzed at times. Please know, you are not alone in this, and there are steady, practical steps you can take to regain a sense of stability and direction.
As a Financial Planner, Derrick has walked alongside many widows during this most difficult season of life. His work is not only about numbers or paperwork yet instead, it is about easing burdens when everything feels heavy and helping bring order when life has been turned upside down. He chose to dedicate his practice to this work because he has seen the difference it makes when someone has both compassionate guidance and clear expertise at their side. His role is to stand with you, to help you navigate both the financial and practical matters that demand attention, while respecting the deeply personal nature of your journey.
This booklet (Your Financial Guide After Loss) was created to give you a clear, step-by-step path through the first year after loss. Inside, you will find practical guidance on what needs to be done right away, what can wait, and how to prioritize without becoming overwhelmed. My hope is that these pages serve as both a roadmap and a source of reassurance so that you can take one thing at a time, at your own pace, and with the confidence that you are moving forward in a thoughtful and supported way.
