I don't know what I would have done without this forum over the last few weeks. When I was first told that my son was emigrating in August I just fell apart, but gradually through reading the replies and responses on here to my original post I have come to realise that first of all my feelings are normal, and secondly I will get through it! Most importantly, I have realised that immersing myself in my own grief was not helping my relationship with my son, who had stopped visiting so much, probably because he couldn't handle my emotions. Although it's really hard, I am doing my best to hide the worst of my feelings and most importantly, to be happy for him. I think Ali said something very profound in her post - that she was grateful to her Dad that he trusted her enough to make her own decisions (about emigrating). I know I have to trust my son to make his own decisions and I have to believe that they are the right ones for him.
As far as I, personally, am concerned, it's reassuring to know that so many Mums out there feel or have felt like me. Even if we believe our children are doing the right thing, there is nevertheless an element of grief in them going to live the other side of the world and however useful Skype is, it's not the same as a hug! All the same, so many of you are looking at the benefits and ignoring the downside - it's hard not to be influenced by all your optimism so I AM hopeful for the future and hope when my son actually does leave I will be able to be strong and positive.
Thank you to everyone who has replied to me - you have all given me something to think about, or some different angle on the situation. I hope as the months tick by to August I will continue to get support and insight from you all. It's so nice to know that you all understand.