British novelist Helen Simonson has been coming to terms with the death of her father, Alan Phillips, in rural France. Because Phillips had contracted COVID-19, Simonson’s mother wasn’t allowed to go with him to the hospital, or take his remains to a crematory. Mourners, including Phillips’ children, weren’t permitted at the cemetery. Simonson says the lack of a traditional bereavement has actually made mourning easier.
The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.
Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.