You know about 7 years ago, my husband and I said, we never had anyone close to us pass away. I guess you should never say a statement like that. Next thing you know we are buy funeral closes. His grandparents, then my grandpa, then my friends. My too closest friends I lost in the summer time. Certain activities bring a flood of memories.

Your mom may do really well then The holidays, or birthday, or something and she will be right back in the whole grief mode. It's ok to cry, it is actually a great release to stress and saddness.

Everyone is so different but I do think it would help it if you got her to talk. Share some stories, Happy ones of course about your brother. You never know you may learn something you didn't already know.

I have five sisters should anything happen to one of them. My mom would be a mess, I would take her to a sad movie, get that out of the way, then take her to a funnie movie to laugh her you know what off.
A good laugh is also very theraputic. I have a great time making my mom laugh, I even had her laughing so hard once she peed her pants for real. That story still makes her laugh to this day.

Hope you don't mind me posting.
I'll shut up now. :D 8)

Best wishes for a quick recovery! My prayers are with you all!