I have been dealing with survivor's guilt for almost 5 years now. The cardiac arrest I suffered over 5 years ago, wasn't related to the guilt i've had been feeling. It was related to the heart transplant I had 9 months after my cardiac arrest.
I always wonder why I am still on this Earth and the other person died? I know I should not ask why and should just be Thankful; but I still wonder why I survived not once, but twice? I have been going to counseling and I am understanding more about life's circumstances.
I urge you and anyone with guilt of surviving death to seek help. This is not discussed at all and needs to be brought to all survivor's attention. I have guilt, but I wasn't diagnosed with it until last year. I waited a couple of years to ask for help. My doctors suggested I go to counseling and I'm glad I did.
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Survivor's Guilt
- By Cheryl03
- Posted March 12, 2008 at 10:44 am · 1 reply
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- By taylor26101
- Posted December 16, 2008 at 2:24 pm
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Hi Cheryl
I too am suffering for the same guilt. Twice in 2007 I flat lined and was saved then in October I received my new heart. After the initial excitement and joy the reality set in, Why me? During one trip to get my biopsy I drove to Cleveland in sever weather, I made it with no problems yet one of my good friend’s 23 year old daughter driving to work died. Then 5 weeks ago my best and closest friend died of cancer. Both of us had traveled together all over the world we live states apart yet maintained a very close relationship. Now if feel lost, totally lost. And extremely guilty because I am alive and he is not. He was must more worthy than me to be spared. I can not afford professional help and as you know the Dr bills are enormous. Thanks for you post and if you could keep me informed of your progress back to life, happiness and feeling apart of society again. As I feel outside of everything
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