As December 7th approaches, it marks seven years since we said goodbye to our daughter, Poppy, in 2017. Her passing, which occurred after a routine scan revealed no heartbeat, changed our lives forever. In the days and months following her loss, our family was thrust into the depths of grief that words can scarcely describe. But through that pain, Poppy’s legacy was born—one that continues to impact not only our family but also those we have connected with since that day.
Navigating the Grief – The Loss of Poppy
The immediate aftermath of Poppy’s passing was filled with disbelief, sorrow, and a sense of unfairness. As parents, we were left asking impossible questions: How could we plan our baby’s funeral? How would we carry on? Most importantly, how could we guide Joshua, our eldest child, through this pain while barely able to manage it ourselves?
The grief was overwhelming, but through that darkness, we found our way forward. The support from those around us—friends, family, and even strangers—lifted us up when we couldn’t stand on our own. Charities like Sands and Wiltshire Treehouse provided invaluable support, reminding us that we weren’t alone in our journey.
https://www.wiltshiretreehouse.org.uk
Darren’s Dedication to CTS Electrical Services
In the wake of Poppy’s passing, Darren threw himself into CTS Electrical Services. The demands of work left little room to grieve, but that drive and determination helped build something more than just a business. It became part of Poppy’s legacy—a testament to how we’ve turned our pain into something positive.
The company’s growth since 2017 has been nothing short of remarkable. Each project completed, every new client served, and every challenge overcome stands as a tribute to the resilience that has defined our journey. Poppy’s memory drives our success, and her legacy lives on in every piece of work we do.
Keeping Poppy’s Memory Alive
Over the years, we’ve found ways to honour Poppy’s memory and ensure she is never forgotten. One of the most meaningful contributions was raising over £5,000 for Sands, which funded “The Quiet Room” at the hospital. This room offers a safe, peaceful space for families receiving devastating news like we did. Knowing that we’ve helped create a sanctuary for others facing the same heartbreak provides comfort and solace.
In addition to fundraising, we’ve supported other initiatives such as sponsoring books for grieving parents and participating in petal-throwing ceremonies. These acts of remembrance have helped us stay connected to Poppy, even as the years have passed.
One of our cherished traditions is celebrating the arrival of snow as a symbol of Poppy’s presence. We call her our “Poppy Snowflake,” and each time the snow falls, we feel her with us. Friends and family often send photos of snow-covered landscapes, letting us know they’re thinking of Poppy too. It’s a beautiful reminder that her memory continues to touch others.
Seven Years Later: Moving Forward, Not Forgetting Poppy
As we reach the seventh anniversary of Poppy’s passing, we’re reminded of how much has changed since that December in 2017. Life has moved forward, but the impact of her loss remains with us every day. There are moments when the grief still feels fresh, but we’ve learned how to carry it with us, finding strength in the love we have for her.
While the pain hasn’t disappeared, we’ve discovered new ways to honour Poppy and integrate her memory into our daily lives. Her presence is felt in the family moments we cherish, the time spent together, and the work we do. Through CTS Electrical Services, her legacy continues to grow, giving purpose to our lives and driving us to make a difference.
The Importance of Sharing Our Story of Poppy
In sharing Poppy’s story, I sometimes worry about how it will be received. Will people think, “Oh, she’s talking about it again”? But the truth is, Poppy’s story is part of who I am. Since her passing, so much has changed in my relationships, my work, and even my outlook on life. It’s important that people understand why some days are harder than others, why I am so determined not to give up, and why family time is now more precious than ever.
Poppy’s passing has shaped our lives in ways we never could have imagined. It’s made us stronger, more compassionate, and more committed to making the most of every moment. Her legacy isn’t just about the grief we carry; it’s about the love we feel, the resilience we’ve found, and the difference we strive to make in the world.
Looking Forward
As we look ahead, we carry Poppy with us, knowing her legacy is woven into the fabric of our lives and the work we do. CTS Electrical Services will continue to grow and thrive, driven by the same determination that Darren showed in the wake of her passing. Our commitment to family, both in our personal lives and in the relationships we build with our clients, remains at the core of everything we do.
This December, we remember Poppy, reflecting on the seven years since she left us. We honour her memory in every snowflake, every project completed, and every moment of joy we share. Her legacy is one of strength, love, and the unwavering belief that even in the darkest times, there is light.
Poppy’s legacy is our reason to keep moving forward, to keep pushing through the challenges life throws our way. Seven years on, her memory remains as strong as ever, a guiding light in everything we do.
Donate to Sands – The support they provide in the time of need is vital. https://www.sands.org.uk/get-involved/donate-sands
Donate to Wiltshire Treehouse – They support children & young people who have been affected by the death of someone important to them- They supported Joshua x https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=BQ4WYYY95X4KA&source=url&ssrt=1726689343945
