Sex and the newly widowed dad — my grief and hook-ups

In 2011, New York City was the backdrop for a deeply personal tragedy when novelist Charles Bock's wife, Diana, died from leukaemia. This loss occurred only three days before their daughter Lily's third birthday, an occasion Bock chose to commemorate despite the overwhelming sadness surrounding them. The party took place in his sister’s apartment in the West Village, a location selected to facilitate hosting and make Lily's day somewhat special. Bock recalls the mixed emotions of that day; adults surrounding them were consumed by grief, while the children remained blissfully unaware, living in the moment. He found himself tasked with organizing not only the birthday celebrations but also the cremation of his beloved wife, demonstrating the heavy burden of balancing familial duties with the need to grieve. The decision to proceed with the birthday party was significant for Bock, as it reflected his struggle to manage the responsibilities of fatherhood and his own emotional turmoil. He later recounted that Diana fought to stay alive for their daughter's important milestone, which highlights the profound connection and commitment between them even in the face of terminal illness. This poignant moment captures the complexities of grief—how one navigates joy and sorrow simultaneously, especially when children are involved. The experience underscored Bock's resolve to revive his life and role as a father amidst the persistent echoes of loss.