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Not for taxes, government forms

I think once this past year on a doctor’s form, I added my own widowed
box when it wasn’t an option. That seems more reflective of who I am. Of course on anything of official import, I would choose single if that was the only option. I think the medical field should take more notice of major losses in a person’s life(not only loss of spouse). These stressors can have a huge impact on health and should be taken into account.

I remember my first PCP visit after my husband died, which was actually within a week. It was difficult to mark that box but I needed to be honest with my doctor and they provided a lot of extra support, which was appreciated. I wish you well as you’re going through such an awful time, there’s no sugarcoating it.
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Reply to MidwestOT
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The very first time I went to the doctor after my husband died and I had to mark my marital status, I was taken aback for just a bit when I chose to mark widow, as there seemed to be some finality in that, and a reminder that I was now on my own.
But that was just the very first time. I now mark widow on all doctors forms, as that is what I am. And that is not a bad thing at all. It just means that I was once married and now because my husband died, I am not.
And here in NC you can only mark "widow" the first year after your husband dies on your taxes. After that you have to mark "single."
I am sorry for the loss of your husband.
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Reply to funkygrandma59
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If I was a widow I would put widow. If widow is not a choice mark single. I really don't think it matters.
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Reply to JoAnn29
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I would put widow(er) for government forms. That status can affect benefits and such.
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Reply to anonymous749199
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HappyNana70 Jun 1, 2025
Thanks, I had read that but just for doctor and not govt forms - widow(er) makes the sad change in status sadder. I’ll see what happens when I go to appt
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