Are there any rules for this?

I'm sorry you have to go through this. The rules are long gone. You need to do what's right for you. I believe Katie Couric wore her husband's wedding ring on a chain for a long time after her husband died. Some women take it off immediately due to the grief or looking at it constantly, for a fresh start or some have it made into something else, or for some individuals it's truly just jewelry, the relationship didn't need a ring to signify the vows, the list goes on. Again, you don't even have to wear black unless you want to, but please don't do it to confirm to someone elses idea of grieving. You still have a life to live and live it to the fullest. Especially if your hubby died of an illness and was expected, you've already completed a huge part of the grieving process. Do what is right in your heart and gut, not what someone else thinks you should do. If you feel pressured in any way contact a good grief counselor in your area to help you work though issues, okay?

I don't think there are any rules for this. You need to do what you feel is right in your heart. I know for example my grandfather wore his wedding ring until the day he died even though he was a widow for over 10 years. Other people may not find this appropriate.

Best of luck.

Obviously being with your husband for 26 years

indecates that you loved your husband very much an there is no rules to the way you feel so

follow your own heart an do what is right for you

an things will be ok

I'm so sorry for your loss :( It is perfectly acceptable and normal to wear your ring for as long as you wish. That is a rule I got from Miss Manners, aka Judith Martin, so as far as etiquette is concerned, it is completely correct.

I'm very sorry for your loss. It is my opinion that he was your husband, therefore is entirely up to you how long you want to wear the ring, and you should not have to explain to anyone the reasons for your decision to remove the ring when you see fit. You knew your husband better than anyone else in the world, I am sure he would have been fine with your time frame to wear the ring. A ring is a symbol, and there is no requirement to wear it for a certain period.

I am also sorry for your loss. I'm sure there's some "ms manners" type of etiquette out there but let's face it you have to look at yourself in the mirror. If you want to take it off, then do so. If you want to wear it until the end of your time, do it. You won't be able to please everyone no matter what you do. One of my uncles died, my aunt and him and been married for years. She had her wedding ring buried with him, so do what is best for you. <hugs>