Grief Support

Grief Support is available to home health and hospice families who have experienced the death of a loved one. Community members may also be referred for grief counseling or participate in our bereavement programs.

HEALING JOURNEY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP

The goal of the support group is to assist adults in understanding and coping with their grief and moving towards resolution and reinvestment in life by:

Providing education on the process of grief 

Creating a safe environment for grieving and healing 

Providing an opportunity to explore and voice feelings and thoughts 

Validating the uniqueness of the grief process 

Facilitating the development of healthy coping and problem-solving behaviors

Stimulating personal growth, making friends and developing a support system 

Encouraging acceptance of the reality and irreversibility of the death

Encouraging the celebration and memory of the life of the loved one and the relationship shared

The support group is a series of educational sessions designed to help individuals to grow through their grief. When an individual completes this group he/she is referred to Rays of Hope, our on-going support group, which provides continued hope from persons who are farther along in their healing journey toward recovery.

"LUNCH WITH FRIENDS"

"Lunch with Friends" is a monthly social gathering for individuals who have experienced grief, which rotates between restaurants in Galion, Bucyrus, and Crestline. Not only do they enjoy lunch but keep in touch with friends they have made through our organization.

Remembering with you & your family...

LIFE CELEBRATION PICNIC & BALLOON RELEASE In late summer or early fall we have a picnic for families that would like to celebrate the life of their loved one. We have activities and entertainment for all ages. At the close of the day we release balloons in memory of our loved ones.

MEMORIAL SERVICES Once in the Spring and once in the Fall our Social Services Department organizes a Memorial Service to honor the lives of patients and others who have died. We would like to share this special event with you and encourage your family and friends to attend and participate in our ceremony. A "Remembering Table" displays pictures or special items to celebrate the memory of your loved one.

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS

The Stars Class "Special Time to Always Remember"

The Stars Class will help children understand the visitation, funeral, or cremation process. The class is held at the funeral home during the private family viewing. We will share stories and work on a picture frame craft project during that time. It gives children an opportunity to share their concerns regarding the visitation and funeral activities. Children are asked to bring a picture of their loved one to the class to put in their picture frame. The children are also going to be writing a star message to their loved one.