Although death is a natural part of the life cycle, the death of a loved one is unquestionably one of the most difficult events that any of us will ever face. But sometimes the impending death of someone you love can be a blessing in disguise—after all, not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to say their last goodbyes. If you find yourself in this situation, here's how you can make it through.

Addressing a Loved One's Terminal Diagnosis
Follow your loved one's lead on this. If he wants to discuss it, go right ahead. It can be therapeutic for both of you, allowing for candid conversation. However, it's possible your loved one may not want to talk about the diagnosis at all. Some days he may speak about it openly, while other days he may be too overwhelmed to talk. Feel it out; any good relationship involves open lines of communication.

As to whether or not to deflate false hope, keep this in mind: to take away hope may leave only fear and dread. He might have hope that there will be a cure for his illness, that his death will be painless or that the people he loves won't be paralyzed by grief when he dies. While hope may seem like a form of denial, it can also be a gift that helps your loved one cope. Miracles have happened—life itself is a perfect example. It may seem to you that the situation is hopeless, but what is the alternative to living hopefully?

Reacting to a Different Appearance
With a terminal condition, a person's appearance can change dramatically. It can be a struggle getting used to seeing a mere shell of the person you're so used to. Some well-meaning friends and loved ones might even find themselves so distracted by his appearance that they limit their visits for fear of reacting poorly.

While malady may deform the body, you can still take comfort in looking at your loved one's familiar face. No one wants to be treated like something less than human, something in limbo between life and death. Treat your loved one with the dignity he deserves. Remind yourself that he is still whole and complete, albeit living his final days. Listen to what he has to say about his experiences and you'll be honoring his life as well as confronting his death.

Talking to Kids about Death
It may be tempting to shield your child from the person who is dying. While your instinct may be to offer protection, this robs them both of the opportunity to make final memories. Consider whether it's appropriate to visit the dying person with your child. This can be a positive experience for her, and it may even bring your dying loved one some much-needed joy.

Younger children may not fully understand the implications of death. In children's stories, for example, characters die and come back to life. You may need to explain that, your loved one isn't coming back. Be prepared to answer questions.

Children feel grief just as strongly as adults, but may express it through their behavior, acting out, withdrawing or just appearing to be moody. If you ask a child how she is feeling, it's likely she won't be able to articulate her thoughts. A supportive environment will help her communicate her feelings as she identifies them. Don't underestimate a child's capacity for strength and growth. Dealing with the death of a loved one is a difficult task, but it's something we all face eventually, and you'll be doing your child a favor by helping her to understand and accept it early on.

Coping with Grief
After your loved one passes, you'll begin to grieve and come to terms with his death. The seven steps of grieving are: shock, denial, bargaining, guilt, anger, depression and hope. Let yourself move through these stages and take as much time as you need. There is no right amount of time to "get over it."

If you've struggled with any addictions in the past, it might be tempting to resort to negative behaviors again. Stay focused on the most important priorities in your life, such as your family and friends, and seek support and help if you need it. Some days will be easier than others. Don't be afraid to reminisce—some people avoid mementos to avoid the pain—but the pain will remain until you work through it. And though it may be hard to believe right now, you may even find yourself laughing a bit as you look back on all the wonderful memories that made your loved so dear to you.