Grief Support Group
Going through the holidays after the loss of a loved one will be the focus of the Tuesday, Nov. 20, meeting of the St. Joseph-Breese Grief Support Group set for 7 p.m. in the hospital Managers Conference Room. Registration is requested by 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 19, to ensure sufficient materials and seating.
“With the emphasis on family and tradition, the holidays can be difficult for anyone who is grieving,” said Sister Dorothy Niemann, of the hospital’s Pastoral Care staff who serves as group coordinator.
“After a loved one dies, the family is forever changed,” Sister said. “What were once enjoyable traditions may now be empty and sad.”
Hand-outs will be available and time for questions and discussion is planned.
The November meeting will be the last for 2012 as the group generally does not meet in December.
For those needing assistance with grieving, Pastoral Care also offers individual support—by appointment, in person or by telephone—and resource material at no charge.
“We are available to support you along the way,” Sister Dorothy said. “Often the first step—that of giving yourself and others permission to talk about a loved one and the loss—is the hardest but it’s important that you make the attempt.”
Those attending are not required to participate in the discussion and all sessions are confidential and open to anyone seeking help. Support is for anyone, no matter how recent or long ago the loss.
For individual grief counseling, to register for the group or more information, contact 526-5327 or sniemann@sjb.hshs.org.