Should You Address Personal Tragedy in Professional Correspondence?

[babywings76]

My sister hosted a show and there was a woman there who wanted to book. She didn't set a date and I tried following up with her. Months went by and we still never pinpointed a date. Then my sister told me that her son died in a tragic accident. I meant to send her a condolence card, but kept forgetting to. Now it's been several months.

Yesterday I received an e-mail from her. She wrote in reply to my mid-month newsletter I sent out about the HWC items. She said:

Hi Amanda!
I am thinking about hosting a catalog show in November. What do you think? How would I put it together? Let me know.
Thanks, Xxxxxx

So I'm wondering...do I just reply back to her answering her question and moving on with the PC info? Or do I mention being aware of the loss of her son and expressing my condolences and apologize for dropping the ball on following up w/ her regarding the booking? Part of me feels weird knowing about what she went through but not mentioning anything and going on like I don't know. I wonder if she knows that I know. The other part of me worries about bringing up such a terrible pain. I don't want to be rude or insensitive.

 

[ChefBeckyD]

It's much better to address it, offer condolences, and move on than to pretend like it never happened. It's like the elephant in the room if it goes unsaid.

 

[raebates]

Friends who have faced a devastating loss tell me that it's never too late to offer condolences.

 

[Pedey]

Completely agree with the ladies above. Don't act like it never happened. He lived, he died & it was a huge deal for her. Acknowledge it but don't dwell. It's sweet of you to be so concerned about handling it right.

 

[Wildfire]

Dear Xxxxxx,Thank you for reaching out to me about hosting a catalog show in November. I'm glad to hear that you are interested in hosting and I would be happy to help you put it together. I can provide you with all the information and materials you need to make it a successful event.Before we move forward, I wanted to take a moment to express my condolences for the loss of your son. I am deeply sorry for your loss and I can only imagine the pain and grief you must be going through. I wanted to send you a condolence card, but unfortunately, I kept forgetting to do so. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.I completely understand if you would prefer to focus on something positive, like hosting a catalog show, and not bring up such a painful topic. Please know that I am here for you whenever you need me and I am more than happy to assist you with any questions you may have about hosting a show.Thank you for your understanding and I look forward to working with you in November.Best regards,
Amanda