TIFU Assuming my colleagues mother had died

This morning I got a message from my direct report with a pic of their elderly mother and the words 25 May yesterday born 1931

For context, my colleague has been on extended leave overseas. Before they left, their ailing 90 something mother had been moved into a home and had a series of infections that almost took her out. It was very likely she would pass before my colleague returned from their trip.

I get the message this morning and head into work. I start telling people ‘x’s mum has died’. It’s a close knit team, casual. I tell a few people knowing full well the grapevine will do it’s work and everyone will know to offer sympathy on my colleagues return.

I message my colleague my condolences. And suggest they take a couple more days to make arrangements.

They message back.

“No she’s still going, that photo was from yesterday”

It was the mother’s BIRTHDAY omg.

Panic sets in. I need to correct the misinformation I’ve set spreading like wildfire! Who have I told???

I did try track everyone down. There were a couple of

“did I tell you x’s mum died?”
“No”
“Good because she didnt!”
“Ohh.. kay…”

It was kinda hilarious in the end but I can guarantee someone will give their condolences on my colleagues return….and they’ll know where the story stemmed from.

TL;DR Thought my colleagues mother had died. Told the office. She didn’t die, just had a birthday instead.