In "72 Hour Hold," Bebe Moore Campbell explores the profound emotional journey of a mother dealing with her child's struggles. The quote "A child's death isn't always necessary for a mother to grieve" encapsulates the idea that grief can arise from various experiences, not just the loss of life. Mothers often face deep sorrow and heartache when their children suffer, whether from mental illness, addiction, or life challenges, which can evoke a feeling of mourning for the life and relationship they envisioned.

This insight highlights the complexity of maternal love and the ways it intertwines with pain. Grief can manifest in many forms, reflecting a mother's worries, fears, and the impact of her child's difficulties on her life. Campbell's work sheds light on the heavy emotional toll that such experiences can take, emphasizing that the journey of a mother extends far beyond the ultimate loss and includes the daily struggles she witnesses in her child's life.