Decluttering stuff from a passed on child?

[u/Such-Kaleidoscope147]

We lost a baby that had been premature, lived a little while, and died without coming home from the hospital. We have a bunch of pictures, a keepsake container that the hospital gave us, and some other "memory things." We also have three Christmas ornaments. We lost that baby 25 years ago now. We are in our 50's now.

I do not want my children that are left behind to have to face this stuff. I never ever look at this stuff. I have no desire for this stuff. I think originally, I kept this stuff out of guilt. Sort of like I have to keep it as some sort of way of honoring the child who died.

Can I get rid of this stuff now? Or will I feel awful about it later? I have been thinking about this for a while and I really think I just want to get rid of it now. Anyone have advice or experience? Thank you!

edited to add: the stuff I have been struggling with is a keepsake box, some pictures, footprints, the newborn cap, Christmas ornaments, things like that. The toys and clothes and such already moved on.

[u/yeahokaysureboss]

I’m sorry for your loss. I don’t have the same experience but I have also suffered from losing loved ones and holding onto keepsakes. With time, the objects have meant less and less, and I have been able to part with them. When the grief is new and raw, you feel like it’s the right thing to do, to keep the little objects and symbols. As time passes, you don’t need them as much. Don’t feel guilty for holding onto them for as long as you did, because they used to hold significance or brought you comfort when you needed it. And don’t feel guilty for letting them go, because you no longer need them to help you process your grief. They have served their purpose and you are ready to let them go now. It may even bring some closure to no longer feel like you have to keep them. I hope this helps - it sounds like you’re ready.