Grief during the holidays: One mother says she still celebrates her son

Tera Sisco of Martock, Nova Scotia has spent three Christmases since her six-year-old son Colton died in flash flooding in July 2023, and her family remembers him with stories and a second decorated Christmas tree.

Tera Sisco of Martock, Nova Scotia has spent three Christmases since her six-year-old son Colton died during flash flooding in July 2023. She says the holidays tend to magnify her grief, though its intensity shifts over time. The family talks about Colton often and has kept some of his favourite traditions. A psychologist interviewed for the story described continuing bonds with loved ones after death as a normal part of grieving. Key points: - Colton Sisco, age six, died in flash flooding in Nova Scotia in July 2023. - Tera Sisco reports her grief remains present and sometimes feels more acute around the holidays. - The family honors Colton by sharing memories and by putting up a second Christmas tree with his favourite themes. - Psychologist Dayna Lee-Baggley said grief often appears at milestones like first holidays without a loved one and that ongoing relationships with the deceased are common. Summary: The family’s memories and new traditions help them hold Colton’s presence during holiday routines while grief continues to be part of their lives. Undetermined at this time.