Paying it forward: Grieving growth
Hospice of Wichita Falls offers grief programs for the extended family. Wichita Falls Southwest Rotary recently heard about Camp Grin Again, offered by HOWF to all in the community.
Hospice of Wichita Falls does far more than just hospice services. Some things I heard, I knew.
Key takeaway: Their grief support programs are free to the community and no other affiliation with HOWF is required.
Camp Grin Again is organized to help children and teenagers process their feelings of grief. Campers are encouraged to express their feelings and share their experiences. Sixth grade through seniors meet 8 a.m.–noon June 10-14. Kindergarten through fifth graders meet 8 a.m.-noon July 8-12. Register for Camp Grin Again at www.howf.org/cga.
Hospice’s Grief Support webpage opens, “Grief is unique to everyone. Our specialized team and resources can help you through your grief journey. You do not have to grieve alone.”
Nine different sets of resources and solutions are presented. More information can be found at www.howf.org/grief-support or by calling 940-691-0982.
In researching grief and children’s mental health, I found an interesting article, “Can Children Grow as a Result of Loss?” published earlier in May in Psychology Today by Dr. Corinne Masur. She noted the benefits of peer support groups event for children.
“Their most helpful source of support was other mourning children who could relate to their exact position," Masur wrote.
Masur cited a study by Jessica Koblenz of children who had lost a parent. Seventy-three percent of the participants in her study felt that navigating and understanding death at an early age made them grow up faster. She wonders if the children view it as growth or a toll paid, and she offers, “Some might feel it is both.”
Why share this knowledge? Together we can do anything. If you know someone who might benefit, then share your knowledge and experience — with grace and consideration please.
We are stronger together, each helping one another. Communities are connected. How are you refreshing your connections to stay current?
Stop and consider the sacrifices others make and have made for us. Memorial Day is a holiday to honor and mourn those United States military personnel who died while serving their country. Volunteers all, our service members inspire us while protecting and defending our great nation. Thanks to each and all.
Jack Browne is a community volunteer and former tech sales and marketing executive who worked 40 years at Motorola, MIPS Technologies and other companies. How are the children doing? Visit his website at www.newcollarcoach.com.
This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Paying It Forward: Grieving Growth
