Mending Babyloss Holiday Season Invitation
The holidays are coming and I’m not sure I’m ready. I’m not sure I’ll ever be ready again. It’s winter and I feel as frozen inside as the landscape is outside. I tried making out my gift list today, but the tears kept getting in the way. It is so hard to think about gifts and fun and the holidayswhen a loved one has died.
As I get out the dishes and count the silverware, I am acutely aware of the empty place at the family table. I’m trying to find the holiday spirit, but when the family circle has been broken by death, the only things that sparkle this season are my tears. – From Care Notes, by Darcie D. Sims
With the upcoming arrival of the holiday season, we are thinking about the many parents we’ve met who, like you, have experienced the loss of a baby or babies. This season can be difficult for those who are grieving. We’ve found that when people have the opportunity to share these experiences, there is an opportunity to find light in the season. In the weeks ahead, we will be sharing material, thoughts, activities, handouts, which are specific to the holidays and those who are grieving. We hope that you will join us.
“Things have been better for me, since the last meeting. I’m not thinking about my losses every minute of the day like I was. I feel like I’ve healed some, and I’m sure it has a lot to do with the Group!”
– Mending Babyloss Group Participant, 2010
All groups meet on Monday evenings from 6:30-8:00 pm at St. Luke’s Health Education Center. Upcoming Dates:
• December 6, 2010
• December 20, 2010
• January 3, 2011
We have been re-thinking the structure of the Mending Babyloss Support Groups. We have realized that people are better served when there are at least three people in the group, as three people can provide community and promote supported discussion from others who are facing similar losses. We are now asking that people call or email a group facilitator (www.mendingbabyloss.wordpress.com) by the Sunday before the group to let us know that they will be coming. Then, if there are fewer than three people attending, the attendee can decide if a smaller group would still meet their needs.
The holidays can become a time of peace and reflection, a time to cherish the gift your loved one has been – and continues to be – in the life of your family.
We hope to see you again in the days ahead.
In Support,
Christine Gibbs, Mary Adler, and Mary Burgess