Gillian,
You are finding your way right now, by starting the path of reaching out!
You wonder whether the great sadness will ever leave you. The world is full of great sadness, and the world is filled with great happiness. What you are experiencing right now is what you are focusing on, what you are used to looking at.
You are in a dark tunnel right now, and it appears that there is no hope in sight. Gillian, you can do this, reach out to all the facilities you can, do not feel guilty, you are important and amazing.
Let go of any blame or toxic thoughts towards your husband or your family, concentrate only on where you want to go and what you want to give to this world.
Thank yourself and thank your dog for what you have achieved thus far.
Make small steps towards the life you want and congratulate yourself as you make them.
Make a list of three small things you want to do for the day, if you complete one, you have succeeded.
You may not be able to achieve everything at once but you will get there. If you have a backward day, breathe, and forgive yourself, you have been through a lot.
much love, E.