BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

When a Loved One Dies ultimately, no one can prepare you for your experience of grief and loss. Each person reacts uniquely to the loss of a loved one. Your grief is unique. Your bereavement is your own, and it can feel devastating. The loss of a loved one can change your life. Even if we believe that we are strong or well-prepared, the feelings of grief can be intense. These feelings are natural – feelings of pain, longing, vulnerability, confusion, sorrow, anxiety, fear, and anger emerge at the time of your loved one’s death and often continue for many months.
During this time of grief, you may find relationships changing. Your daily routines and roles may be altered. Your basic assumptions about life may change temporarily, or even permanently. You may face the anxiety and unexpected adventure of reshaping your life. You may not know where to turn for support, care, and help along such an uncharted journey.
St. Marie’s Hospice team is available to walk with you on your journey through grief and bereavement. We offer a variety of bereavement services, which can include the following:

• Person-to-person support:

We are available for counseling, companionship, or conversation — whether in person, by phone, e-mail, or postal correspondence, from the time of death to a year after your loved one’s death. A personal visit request begins with a simple phone call.

• Memorial services:

St. Marie’s offers a Remembrance that is ecumenical and inter-faith in perspective. We focus on remembering the meaning, purpose, and impact of your loved one’s life, regardless of religious affiliation.

• Educational support groups:

You’ll find that St. Marie’s provides a safe and supportive place for people to share experiences of loss with each other, to learn from each other about ways to cope and heal, and move forward.

• Written resources:

We have a library of materials available that can help you understand and follow your journey through grief and bereavement.

• Who Can Benefit?

Any family member, partner, friend, or caregiver of a hospice patient may ask for all hospice bereavement services.
Anyone in the communities that we serve who has suffered a recent loss may attend our educational support groups