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	<title>Bereavement Programs &#8211; Chilliwack Hospice Society</title>
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	<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org</link>
	<description>Supporting individuals and families during the dying and grieving process since 1986.</description>
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	<title>Bereavement Programs &#8211; Chilliwack Hospice Society</title>
	<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org</link>
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	<item>
		<title>Coping with grief during the holidays</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/coping-with-grief-during-the-holidays/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 15 Nov 2025 23:38:41 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Celebrate A Life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coping with loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief and loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grieving process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hanukkah]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Year's Eve]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=9628</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[The holiday season can bring up complex emotions for anyone grieving the death of someone important. While others may be celebrating, many people are navigating memories, changes in routine, and the absence of someone they deeply miss. Grief doesn’t follow a calendar and it doesn’t pause simply because it is December. If this season feels  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="168" data-end="679">The holiday season can bring up complex emotions for anyone grieving the death of someone important. While others may be celebrating, many people are navigating memories, changes in routine, and the absence of someone they deeply miss. Grief doesn’t follow a calendar and it doesn’t pause simply because it is December. If this season feels overwhelming, complicated, or different than it used to, you are not alone. Grief is a natural response to love and loss and it deserves space, compassion, and support.</p>
<h3 data-start="681" data-end="724"><strong>The holidays don’t have to be perfect</strong></h3>
<p data-start="725" data-end="1007">We can feel pressure to create meaningful, joyful celebrations. Yet even when everything appears perfect on the outside, grief may still show up. Allow yourself to be present as you are, without expectations or self-judgment. Some days will feel heavier than others — that’s normal.</p>
<h3 data-start="1009" data-end="1048"><strong>Be intentional and open to change</strong></h3>
<p data-start="1049" data-end="1340">Traditions can bring comfort, but they can also feel painful when someone is missing. Ask yourself: <em data-start="1149" data-end="1226">What is the heart of this tradition? Connection? Faith? Memory? Generosity?</em> Consider adapting old routines or creating new ones that reflect where you are now. Meaning can evolve over time.</p>
<h3 data-start="1342" data-end="1366"><strong>Practice saying no</strong></h3>
<p data-start="1367" data-end="1638">Grieving takes emotional, physical, and mental energy. If your schedule feels overwhelming, give yourself permission to decline invitations or step away from activities that feel too demanding this year. Prioritizing what matters most protects your energy and well-being.</p>
<h3 data-start="1640" data-end="1668"><strong>Plan time for yourself</strong></h3>
<p data-start="1669" data-end="1880">Quiet time, rest, reflection, or simply stepping away from a gathering can make a big difference. Scheduling breaks or building in slower days may help you cope when the season feels busy or emotionally charged.</p>
<h3 data-start="1882" data-end="1909"><strong>Reach out for support</strong></h3>
<p data-start="1910" data-end="2227">Grief can feel isolating, even when surrounded by others. While family and friends may be supportive, you may also benefit from connecting with trained grief support volunteers or professionals. Chilliwack Hospice Society offers free, one-to-one grief support as well as group programs. You don’t have to navigate this alone.</p>
<h3 data-start="2229" data-end="2267"><strong>Make room for both grief and joy</strong></h3>
<p data-start="2268" data-end="2533">It is common to feel complex emotions: sadness, gratitude, longing, laughter, love. Some people worry that enjoying the holidays means they are “moving on” or forgetting their loved one. Joy does not erase grief. Both feelings can co-exist, and both are valid.</p>
<h3 data-start="2535" data-end="2581"><strong>Honour your loved one in meaningful ways</strong></h3>
<p data-start="2582" data-end="2897">Finding gentle ways to remember your loved one can offer comfort. You might:</p>
<ul>
<li data-start="2582" data-end="2897">Cook a favourite recipe</li>
<li data-start="2582" data-end="2897">Display a special ornament or keepsake</li>
<li data-start="2582" data-end="2897">Light a candle</li>
<li data-start="2582" data-end="2897">Share stories with people who are comfortable listening</li>
<li data-start="2582" data-end="2897">Create a private ritual just for you</li>
</ul>
<p>There is no right or wrong way to grieve someone you miss.</p>
<h3 data-start="2899" data-end="2922"><strong>You are not alone</strong></h3>
<p data-start="2923" data-end="3220">The holidays can be tender, painful, meaningful, or bittersweet, sometimes all at once. Be gentle with yourself as you move through the season. Consider visiting us for <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/events/event/celebrate-a-life-6/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Celebrate A Life</strong></span></a> at Minter Country Garden or Thrifty Boutique, attend our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/events/event/holiday-movie-matinee-the-family-stone/">Holiday Movie Matinee</a></strong></span> on December 12, or participating in our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/events/event/coffee-and-compassion-drop-in-grief-support/">Coffee &amp; Compassion Drop-In Grief Support Circle</a></strong></span>, December 15. You&#8217;ll be in good company.</p>
<p data-start="2923" data-end="3220"><em>Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.</em></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Recognizing the often disenfranchised grief of a sibling’s death</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/recognizing-the-often-disenfranchised-grief-of-a-siblings-death/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2025 20:42:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disenfranchised grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Earla Legault]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief and bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sibling grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sibling grief support group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sibling loss]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=9587</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[November is Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month, a time to recognize the unique and often overlooked grief that follows the death of a brother or sister. Sibling grief is one form of disenfranchised grief, the kind of grief that society too often fails to acknowledge or validate. Siblings are sometimes called “the forgotten mourners,” as their loss  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="358" data-end="516">November is <strong data-start="370" data-end="407">Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month,</strong> a time to recognize the unique and often overlooked grief that follows the death of a brother or sister.</p>
<p data-start="518" data-end="967">Sibling grief is one form of <em data-start="547" data-end="570">disenfranchised grief, </em>the kind of grief that society too often fails to acknowledge or validate. Siblings are sometimes called “the forgotten mourners,” as their loss can be overshadowed by attention given to parents, partners, or children of the deceased. But the bond between siblings is one of the most significant and enduring relationships in life and the grief that comes from its loss can last a lifetime.</p>
<blockquote data-start="969" data-end="1469">
<p data-start="971" data-end="1469">“Sibling grief is one of the least acknowledged forms of grief, despite siblings often being our longest and most formative relationships. Greater awareness through publications and social media in the realm of grief education and the need for establishing peer grief groups are essential supports needed for navigating a sibling’s unique and enduring bereavement.”<br data-start="1336" data-end="1339" />— Earla Legault, co-author of <em>Living with Sibling Grief: Imagining a Way Forward</em>, and Chilliwack Hospice Society volunteer</p>
</blockquote>
<div id="attachment_9589" style="width: 235px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9589" class="size-medium wp-image-9589" src="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-200x267.jpg 200w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-225x300.jpg 225w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-400x533.jpg 400w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-600x800.jpg 600w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-800x1067.jpg 800w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o-1200x1600.jpg 1200w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/thumbnail_7D6B882E-59BA-4979-B23E-0852B0BF4B98_1_102_o.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /><p id="caption-attachment-9589" class="wp-caption-text">Earla Legault</p></div>
<h3 data-start="1476" data-end="1507"><strong>Why sibling grief matters</strong></h3>
<p data-start="1509" data-end="1941">From childhood through adolescence and into adulthood, sibling relationships help shape our sense of identity. They are our first companions and rivals, our teachers and protectors, and the people who know our history from the beginning. Many siblings share decades of life together, often more time than with anyone else. Research has shown that siblings spend up to a third of their early years together, more than with parents, teachers, or friends.</p>
<p data-start="1943" data-end="2332">Despite the closeness of this bond, the grief that follows a sibling’s death is rarely recognized for its depth or duration. Our culture tends to give less acknowledgement to sibling relationships, even though they are nearly universal and profoundly formative. When a sibling dies, it can feel as though part of one’s own identity is gone — a missing chapter in the story of one’s life.</p>
<h3 data-start="2339" data-end="2383"><strong>What sibling grievers wish others knew</strong></h3>
<p data-start="2385" data-end="2761">There is no hierarchy in grief. While the death of a sibling may be viewed by some as “lesser” than other losses, the pain can be immense. Many adults assume their brothers or sisters will always be there, a steady presence through milestones and change. When that expectation is suddenly broken, the result can be deep sorrow, disorientation, and even guilt for surviving.</p>
<p data-start="2763" data-end="3113">Siblings who are grieving often need to self-advocate for their emotional needs. At home, in friendships, and at work, they may find themselves setting boundaries or seeking understanding in environments where their loss is not easily recognized. Taking time for rest, creative expression, or quiet reflection can help create space for healing.</p>
<h3 data-start="3120" data-end="3167"><strong>How to support someone grieving a sibling</strong></h3>
<p data-start="3169" data-end="3378">Support begins with simple acknowledgement. Recognize that the death of a sibling leaves a lifelong impact — it’s not something to “get over” or “move on from.” Grief doesn’t end; it changes shape over time.</p>
<p data-start="3380" data-end="3715">Offering empathy rather than advice is one of the most meaningful ways to help. Invite your friend or colleague to talk about their sibling, share stories, or find ways to keep their memory present. Encourage rituals of connection such as lighting a candle, marking birthdays, or finding a special way to honour the bond they shared.</p>
<p data-start="3717" data-end="3980">For those who are grieving, learning about grief education and theories can provide helpful context for what they are experiencing. Understanding that healing is about <em data-start="3885" data-end="3895">adapting</em> rather than <em data-start="3908" data-end="3919">accepting</em> can make space for a gentler and more sustainable journey.</p>
<h3 data-start="3987" data-end="4007"><strong>Moving forward</strong></h3>
<p data-start="4009" data-end="4164">Grief changes us, but it does not have to isolate us. By speaking more openly about sibling loss, we can help people feel seen, validated, and supported.</p>
<p data-start="4166" data-end="4300">If you are grieving the death of a sibling, know that your relationship mattered deeply and so does your grief. You are not alone in moving forward to navigate this deep loss.</p>
<p data-start="4302" data-end="4483">For local grief support and peer groups, please contact Lucy Fraser, MSW, Director of Programs at Chilliwack Hospice Society at (604) 795-4660 or visit <a class="decorated-link" href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org" target="_new" rel="noopener" data-start="4418" data-end="4480">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a>.</p>
<p data-start="4302" data-end="4483"><strong>Chilliwack Hospice Society extends heartfelt thanks to volunteer and author Earla Legault for contributing her insights and expertise to this article. Earla is the co-author of <em>Living with Sibling Grief: Imagining a Way Forward</em> and has dedicated her work to raising awareness of sibling bereavement through education, writing, and peer support.</strong></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society brings community together for annual memorial celebration</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-brings-community-together-for-annual-memorial-celebration/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Oct 2025 18:45:57 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Memorial Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[canadian hospice and palliative care association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[community events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cristal Biela]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief literacy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[memorial events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[national grief and bereavement day]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=9563</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Free event Nov. 18 marks National Grief and Bereavement Day with a time for remembrance, reflection and connection Chilliwack Hospice Society invites community members to join in a time of remembrance and reflection at its annual Memorial Celebration on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the Chilliwack Museum and Archives (45820 Spadina Ave.). The event begins  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4 data-start="441" data-end="559"><strong data-start="441" data-end="559">Free event Nov. 18 marks National Grief and Bereavement Day with a time for remembrance, reflection and connection</strong></h4>
<p data-start="561" data-end="886">Chilliwack Hospice Society invites community members to join in a time of remembrance and reflection at its annual <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/events/event/memorial-celebration-2/">Memorial Celebration</a></strong></span> on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the Chilliwack Museum and Archives (45820 Spadina Ave.). The event begins at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.</p>
<p data-start="888" data-end="1236">Held on the third Tuesday of November, the date coincides with National Grief and Bereavement Day, recognized by the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association and organizations like Chilliwack Hospice Society. The awareness day aims to increase Canadians’ grief literacy and encourage open conversations about grief, loss and support.</p>
<p data-start="1238" data-end="1527">The Memorial Celebration offers an opportunity for individuals and families to honour their loved ones, find comfort in community and experience the quiet strength of shared understanding. The event is open to anyone who is grieving — whether the death occurred recently or many years ago.</p>
<blockquote data-start="1529" data-end="1895">
<p data-start="1531" data-end="1895">“Our Memorial Celebration provides a safe and meaningful space for people to come together, honour their loved ones and feel supported by others who understand what they’re going through,” said Sue Knott, Executive Director of Chilliwack Hospice Society. “Moments like this remind us that grief is a shared human experience, and no one needs to face it alone.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p data-start="1897" data-end="2168">This year’s program features guest speaker Cristal Biela, and a musical performance by singer-songwriter Jennifer Victor. Guests are encouraged to bring a framed photo of their loved one to display during the evening. Light refreshments will be served.</p>
<p data-start="2170" data-end="2671"><strong>Guest speaker – Cristal Biela, M.A., RCC</strong><br data-start="2214" data-end="2217" />Biela is a wife and mother of four adult children who lives on an off-grid homestead. She works as a community health specialist with Fraser Health in Chilliwack, focusing on enhancing resilience and reducing the impact of adverse childhood experiences for children, youth and families. She will share reflections on her personal and professional experiences with grief and how she has found comfort by intentionally weaving moments of joy into her days.</p>
<p data-start="2673" data-end="3005"><strong>Musical guest – Jennifer Victor</strong><br data-start="2708" data-end="2711" />Victor is a Chilliwack-based singer-songwriter who launched her YouTube channel in 2016 and has since reached more than nine million streams on Spotify. She collaborates with musicians worldwide and is passionate about mental-health awareness, using music as a source of comfort and connection.</p>
<p data-start="3007" data-end="3147">Guests are asked to RSVP by calling (604) 795-4660. Street parking and elevator access are available. There is no smoking on the premises.</p>
<p data-start="3149" data-end="3283">All Chilliwack Hospice Society programs and services are offered free of cost thanks to the generosity of local donors and businesses.</p>
<p data-start="3285" data-end="3439">For more information about memorial events at Chilliwack Hospice Society, please contact Deanna Fedorkew, Community Education Manager, at (604) 795-4660 or <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a class="decorated-link cursor-pointer" href="mailto:deanna@chilliwackhospice.org" rel="noopener" data-start="3408" data-end="3436">deanna@chilliwackhospice.org</a></strong></span>.</p>
<p data-start="3285" data-end="3439"><em>Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with death and dying through support, education, and programs that provide wellness and healthy grieving.</em></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society workshops and memorial events bring connection and comfort</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-workshops-and-memorial-events-bring-connection-and-comfort/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Oct 2025 21:57:04 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Education and Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Memorial Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[community events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[educational workshops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[expressive arts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Father's Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gentle mat yoga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[memorial events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mother's Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peer support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[presentations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=9527</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Throughout this year, Chilliwack Hospice Society’s Community Education Manager, Deanna Fedorkew, has facilitated a series of memorial gatherings, workshops, and wellness activities designed to support people navigating grief, dying, and end-of-life planning. Special opportunities for rituals and remembrances included the Mother’s Day Memorial on May 9 and the Father’s Day Memorial on June 13. Both  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="269" data-end="546">Throughout this year, Chilliwack Hospice Society’s Community Education Manager, Deanna Fedorkew, has facilitated a series of memorial gatherings, workshops, and wellness activities designed to support people navigating grief, dying, and end-of-life planning.</p>
<p data-start="548" data-end="1093">Special opportunities for rituals and remembrances included the Mother’s Day Memorial on May 9 and the Father’s Day Memorial on June 13. Both events offered safe spaces for those grieving a parent or parent-figure to share memories and find comfort in community. On August 21, Fedorkew, alongside Jennifer Dacre and Kaylee Lovesy, co-facilitated the Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day Memorial, offering a time of reflection for those grieving the loss of a beloved pet or caring for a dying animal. The day included storytelling, expressive arts, and community support.</p>
<blockquote>
<p data-start="548" data-end="1093">“Grief touches each of us in different ways, but it is something no one should have to carry alone,” said Fedorkew. “These programs create spaces where people can honour their stories, find comfort, and remember that community can hold us through the hardest seasons.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p data-start="1274" data-end="2061">Educational opportunities have included advance care planning workshops on July 15 and 17, and September 5 and 8, covering end-of-life care planning, temporary substitute decision makers, representation agreements, and advance directives. On June 19, Planning with Purpose: A Conversation on Death, Dignity and Diverse Traditions was presented in partnership with Tammy Miller of Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Funeral Home, helping participants explore funeral planning, cultural traditions, and essential considerations before and after a death. In September, Planning Ahead: An Introduction to Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Representation Agreements, presented by Aatif Nanji of Simpson Notaries, provided practical guidance on preparing for the future.</p>
<p data-start="2063" data-end="2461">New wellness and connection programs were also introduced. Gentle Mat Yoga, led by Emmy Kerr, was offered once weekly outdoors through August, blending movement and mindfulness as a way to nurture body and spirit in grief. Fedorkew also launched Craft and Chat, held the second Friday of every month, creating a welcoming space for participants to connect and process grief through creativity.</p>
<p data-start="2463" data-end="2827" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><em>Throughout the year Chilliwack Hospice Society hosts a variety of in-person and virtual educational workshops and presentations for the community. Topics may include advance care planning, financial and legal matters, self-care and wellness. Educational workshops are provided for free thanks to the generosity of individual donors and businesses in our community.</em></p>
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		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society recognizes National Grief and Bereavement Day</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-recognizes-national-grief-and-bereavement-day-2/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Nov 2024 23:42:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief and loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grieving process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[national grief and bereavement day]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=8794</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Grief is a universal experience that touches people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are an adult grieving a lifelong partner, a teenager mourning a parent, or a family navigating loss together, the journey can feel overwhelming. On November 19, National Grief and Bereavement Day serves as a reminder of the importance of support,  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Grief is a universal experience that touches people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are an adult grieving a lifelong partner, a teenager mourning a parent, or a family navigating loss together, the journey can feel overwhelming. On November 19, National Grief and Bereavement Day serves as a reminder of the importance of support, connection, and compassion during these difficult times.</p>
<p>This year’s theme, <strong>Remember. Reflect. Connect.</strong>, encourages us all to:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Remember</strong> those who have died and their impact on our lives.</li>
<li><strong>Reflect</strong> on the ways grief shapes us and fosters resilience.</li>
<li><strong>Connect</strong> with others to find understanding and comfort.</li>
</ul>
<p>At Chilliwack Hospice Society, we are dedicated to supporting grieving adults, children, and families. Our programs offer safe spaces to explore emotions, share experiences, and build coping strategies. Professional staff offer guidance through the tangled processes of grief and loss that accompany dying and death. It does not matter when or how the death occurred, or how a person is connected to the death — anyone can benefit from this support. From one-to-one grief support to adult bereavement support groups to specialized child and youth programs, we strive to ensure everyone has access to compassionate care tailored to their unique needs.</p>
<blockquote><p>Jennifer Dacre, Bereavement Services Manager at Chilliwack Hospice Society, emphasizes, &#8220;Grief is a personal journey, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary one. At Chilliwack Hospice Society, we believe in the power of community to help individuals navigate grief following the death of a loved one. By remembering the ones we’ve loved, reflecting on the lessons they’ve taught us, and connecting with others who share similar experiences, we create pathways to healing. Grief may feel isolating, but reaching out for support can transform that isolation into understanding, connection, and hope.&#8221;</p></blockquote>
<p>Families often face the dual challenge of mourning their loved one&#8217;s death while supporting one another. Our resources help families communicate openly about grief, honour their loved ones, and find collective strength in their shared journey. This National Grief and Bereavement Day, we invite individuals and families to seek out community support and resources. Together, we can create a world where every grieving person feels seen, heard, and cared for. Let us “remember, reflect, and connect” to build a compassionate community where grief can be shared and supported.</p>
<p>If you or someone you know is grieving the death of a loved one right now, call Chilliwack Hospice Society at (604) 795-4660 or visit <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org/">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a> to learn more about the one-to-one support, groups, and workshops that are currently being offered. Chilliwack Hospice Society programs and services are provided free of cost thanks to the generosity of individual donors and businesses in our community. Donations are always gratefully accepted at the Thrifty Boutique and online at <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org/donate">www.chilliwackhospice.org/donate</a></p>
<p>For more information, news, and events, join our <a href="https://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1111489023622&amp;p=oi">email newsletter list</a> or follow @ChilliwackHospice on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChilliwackHospice/">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chilliwackhospice/">Instagram</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.</em></p>
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		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society recognizes Children&#8217;s Grief Awareness Day</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-recognizes-childrens-grief-awareness-day-2/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 Nov 2024 21:36:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Child and Youth Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bibliotherapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child and youth programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children's grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children's grief awareness day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[expressive arts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief and loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[one-to-one grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[teens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video gaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[youth programs]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=8789</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[As we approach Children’s Grief Awareness Day on November 21, Chilliwack Hospice Society is committed to increasing understanding of the often invisible struggles faced by grieving children and youth as they cope with death and loss. This day serves as an important reminder for communities across Canada to acknowledge and support young people who have  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As we approach Children’s Grief Awareness Day on November 21, Chilliwack Hospice Society is committed to increasing understanding of the often invisible struggles faced by grieving children and youth as they cope with death and loss. This day serves as an important reminder for communities across Canada to acknowledge and support young people who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, friend, pet, or close family member. Together, we can help grieving children feel recognized, connected, and supported.</p>
<p><em>One in 14 children in Canada</em> will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the age of 18. Childhood grief may present differently from adult grief. Children may not have the vocabulary or emotional tools to fully express their feelings, leading some adults to assume they’re “doing fine.” However, grief in children is often masked by behavioural changes, changes in academic performance, or physical symptoms like stomach aches and headaches. As caregivers, friends, and community members, we need to recognize these signs and provide spaces where children feel safe to explore and express their emotions.</p>
<p>This is where Chilliwack Hospice Society’s Child and Youth Programs comes into play. We offer specialized support designed to help children navigate their grief journey. By engaging in activities such as art, bibliotherapy, and gaming, we provide kids with creative outlets to express their feelings and ask questions in a way that feels safe and natural to them.</p>
<blockquote><p>Franceska Hills, Child and Youth Program Manager at Chilliwack Hospice Society, explains, “Grief in children often looks very different from grief in adults. It’s sometimes described as puddle jumping — children leap in and out of their grief just like they jump in and out of puddles. One moment, they might dive into their emotions, splashing around in their sadness or confusion, and the next, they hop back out, retreating to a space where they can feel safe and steady again. This cycle repeats, allowing them to process their emotions bit by bit. At times, they may appear untouched by the loss, going about their day as if nothing has changed, only to be suddenly overwhelmed by a wave of emotion. This ebb and flow is a natural part of how they cope and heal. We support children in understanding that whatever they’re feeling is a natural and valid response to the loss of their loved one. Through activities like art, play, and storytelling, we help children give voice to their grief and see that they’re not alone on their journey. Our goal is to walk alongside them, making sure they know they have a safe, compassionate place to return whenever they need to.”</p></blockquote>
<p>When a child is grieving, it’s essential that adults address their questions and emotions with empathy and understanding. To help adults better support grieving children, the following principles offer practical guidance for addressing children&#8217;s questions and emotions about death and loss.</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>What Happened is Called…</strong> — Clearly explain what happened using age-appropriate language.</li>
<li><strong>It Wasn’t Caused by Them</strong> — Reassure them that they did not cause the illness or death.</li>
<li><strong>They Can’t Cure It</strong> — Help them understand that it’s not something they can fix.</li>
<li><strong>They Will Be Cared For</strong> — Assure them that their needs will be met.</li>
<li><strong>They Can Stay Connected to Their Loved One</strong> — Encourage them to remember and feel connected to their loved one through memories and rituals.</li>
</ol>
<p>Children’s Grief Awareness Day is a reminder that children need our understanding, patience, and commitment to building a supportive network. Chilliwack Hospice Society is dedicated to ensuring that no child in our community should navigate grief alone. Let’s work together to support the children in our lives, letting them know it’s okay to grieve and that we’re here to walk beside them every step of the way.</p>
<blockquote><p>David Hughes, Child and Youth Program Manager at Chilliwack Hospice Society, says, “We’re here to help normalize these feelings for children, showing them that mourning is part of love. By validating their grief and encouraging them to express themselves in a way that feels natural, we help them understand that it’s okay to feel sad, confused, angry, or even relieved. Our goal is to provide the tools, support, and safe spaces that let children move through these feelings without judgment or expectation, helping them grow into adults who can carry and honour their love and loss.”</p></blockquote>
<p>The Child and Youth Program at Chilliwack Hospice Society offers free, low-barrier services tailored to meet the diverse needs of grieving youth, including individual and group support, in-school support, family activities, expressive arts, and equine connections. These programs are made possible by the generous contributions of individuals and businesses within our community, and through support of Chilliwack Hospice Society fundraising events and the Thrifty Boutique.</p>
<p>To learn more about our Child and Youth Program or to donate in honour of Children’s Grief Awareness Day, please call (604) 795-4660 or visit our website at <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.</em></p>
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		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society previews Fall grief support programming</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-previews-fall-grief-support-programming/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:24:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child and Youth Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[First Step Grief Support Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grieving The Death of a Pet Support Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Palliative Services]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anticipatory grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caregiver support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children's grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[one-to-one grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet loss]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=8687</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Chilliwack Hospice Society is offering a variety of programs this Fall to provide support to those who are grieving the death of a loved one — human or animal — and caregivers of a dying person. A new format of group grief support, a Coffee and Compassion Circle will offer the experience of compassion in  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Chilliwack Hospice Society is offering a variety of programs this Fall to provide support to those who are grieving the death of a loved one — human or animal — and caregivers of a dying person.</p>
<p>A new format of group grief support, a <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/events/event/coffee-and-compassion-circle-drop-in-grief-support/">Coffee and Compassion Circle</a> will offer the experience of compassion in a drop-in model. To be facilitated once monthly on Monday afternoons starting at 1:00pm, the circle will offer grievers the opportunity to connect with others who are grieving the death of a loved one, to improve their understanding of the grief process, to ask unanswered questions in a safe, supportive space, and to learn about the free programs and services offered by Chilliwack Hospice Society.</p>
<p>A <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/grieving-the-death-of-a-pet/">grief support group dedicated to pet loss</a> will give those who are grieving the death of a beloved pet a safe, non-judgmental space to mourn this meaningful death with others who understand. Discussion topics will include normalizing grief, making room to grieve, self-care, the importance of rituals, and memorializing your pet. The pet loss grief support group will meet once weekly for four consecutive weeks, starting September 11.</p>
<p>For families grieving the death of a grownup or sibling in a child’s life, the <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/child-and-youth/">Child and Youth Program</a> will be facilitating monthly Family Art Nights to help children and their grownups process their grief through creative expression. The group will offer participants a safe place to connect with other families who are coping with grief and loss and to share their experiences if they choose. Projects will include memory lanterns, pour painting, and Christmas ornaments.</p>
<p>Movement can be very helpful when coping with stress or grief. A new walking group for caregivers will offer mutual support and camaraderie for those who are caring for a dying person while improving overall well-being by walking along the beautiful Vedder Rotary Trail. <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/events/event/strength-in-strides-caregivers-journey-walk-and-talk-support-group/">Strength in Strides: Caregiver’s Journey</a> will meet once weekly for eight weeks, beginning September 11.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/first-step-grief-support-group/">First Step Grief Support Group</a> will meet Saturday mornings this Fall beginning October 19. An eight-week closed program at Chilliwack Hospice Society, First Step offers mutual support and socialization for bereaved adults wanting to share the journey into change and renewal. Grief has no timeline. As such, some group members may choose to begin participating in the weeks following the death of their loved one. Others may find themselves open to the benefits of participating in a grief support group years later and are welcome to do so.</p>
<blockquote><p>“Each grief support group Chilliwack Hospice Society facilitates offers participants validation, comfort, and a chance to feel seen as they navigate significant loss in their lives,” says Executive Director Sue Knott. “While we cannot fix their pain, we can hold space for them and offer care and compassion for the grief journey.”</p></blockquote>
<p>Throughout the year, in addition to groups, Chilliwack Hospice Society provides one-to-one grief support for children, youth, and adults. Professional staff offer guidance through the tangled processes of grief and loss that accompany dying and death. It does not matter when or how the death occurred, or how a person is connected to the death — anyone can benefit from this support.</p>
<p>If you or someone you know is grieving the death of a loved one right now, call Chilliwack Hospice Society at (604) 795-4660 or visit <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a> to learn more about the one-to-one support, groups, and workshops that are currently being offered. Chilliwack Hospice Society programs and services are provided free of cost thanks to the generosity of individual donors and businesses in our community. Donations are always gratefully accepted at the Thrifty Boutique and online at <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org/donate">www.chilliwackhospice.org/donate</a></p>
<p>For more information, news, and events, join our <a href="https://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1111489023622&amp;p=oi">email newsletter list</a> or follow @ChilliwackHospice on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChilliwackHospice/">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chilliwackhospice/">Instagram</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.</em></p>
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		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society connects with grieving youth through innovative gaming program</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-connects-with-grieving-youth-through-innovative-gaming-program/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:00:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child and Youth Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chilliwack Hospice Society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child and youth programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children's grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack foundation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grant funding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[neurodiverse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[neurodiversity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video gaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=8346</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Chilliwack Foundation grant helps funds extension of Child and Youth Program supports Chilliwack Hospice Society has extended its grief support program for children and youth to include video gaming to better accommodate clients who are neurodiverse with the support of a community grant from the Chilliwack Foundation. According to Child and Youth Program Manager Franceska  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Chilliwack Foundation grant helps funds extension of Child and Youth Program supports</em></p>
<p>Chilliwack Hospice Society has extended its grief support program for children and youth to include video gaming to better accommodate clients who are neurodiverse with the support of a community grant from the <a href="https://chilliwackfoundation.com/">Chilliwack Foundation</a>.</p>
<p>According to Child and Youth Program Manager Franceska Hills, over the last several years, the number of child and youth clients with a diagnosis of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental disorders have steadily increased at the Society. Hills identified video gaming as an engaging and exciting support model for neurodivergent children. By offering in-person grief support services through video gaming, children who might otherwise feel self-conscious, apprehensive, and isolated can access support in a familiar, low-barrier way tailored to their interests.</p>
<blockquote><p>By embracing and accommodating neurodivergent kids, we alleviate the pressure of them having to perform like their neurotypical peers, masking who they are and how they feel, and denying their needs, Hills explains. That kind of pressure is exhausting and makes the grieving process even harder.</p></blockquote>
<p>Through games like Minecraft, children who typically find it uncomfortable and challenging to interact with others, either one-to-one or in a group, can navigate a video game world and feel knowledgeable, successful, and in control.</p>
<blockquote><p>Promoting opportunities that provide a sense of security is so essential, particularly when a child or youth is grieving because the feeling of having no control is intensified when someone they love has died, Hills says.</p></blockquote>
<p>A generous Chilliwack Foundation grant in 2023 enabled the Society to purchase a new television screen, Nintendo Switch, games, and bean bag chairs for the programming space dedicated to its youngest grief support clients. Since then, the innovative extension of the Child and Youth Program of combining grief support and emotional development with video gaming has improved accessibility for neurodivergent and neurotypical clients alike.</p>
<p>Connecting with grieving children and youth often appears differently than grief support for adults. Discussions about death, dying, grief, and loss can occur through playful and creative activities wherein children’s and youth’s grief experiences are processed and normalized. The addition of video gaming to existing supports such as art, music, and play, has been exceptionally complementary.</p>
<p>At Chilliwack Hospice Society, one of the organization’s goals is to provide free, low-barrier grief support services through a variety of programs for children and youth. Individual needs are accommodated through one-to-one support, community outreach, in-school support, group support, family activities, and equine connections. All programs and services are offered free of charge because of the generosity of community donors and their support of Chilliwack Hospice Society fundraising events and the Thrifty Boutique.</p>
<p>To learn more about the Child and Youth Program at Chilliwack Hospice Society or to make a donation, please call (604) 795-4660 or visit <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a></p>
<div id="attachment_8349" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8349" class="wp-image-8349 size-large" src="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" srcset="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-400x267.jpg 400w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-800x533.jpg 800w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jesper-brouwers-nQrR76hryg-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p id="caption-attachment-8349" class="wp-caption-text">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jesperados?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Jesper Brouwers</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/orange-and-black-nintendo-switch--nQrR76hryg?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a></p></div>
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		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society previews winter grief support programming</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-previews-winter-grief-support-programming-2/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jan 2024 21:44:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[First Step Grief Support Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grieving The Death of a Pet Support Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Supportive Walking Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Traumatic Loss Grief Support Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advance care planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief counselling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hospice care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[palliative care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peer support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[traumatic death]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=8196</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Chilliwack Hospice Society is pleased to share its calendar of winter programs for the grieving community to participate in, including many continuing options for individual and group grief support. First Step Grief Support Group begins January 30 and meets weekly for eight weeks. The group is best suited for those who have experienced the death  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Chilliwack Hospice Society is pleased to share its calendar of winter programs for the grieving community to participate in, including many continuing options for individual and group grief support.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/first-step-grief-support-group/">First Step Grief Support Group</a> begins January 30 and meets weekly for eight weeks. The group is best suited for those who have experienced the death of a loved one in the past six months or year; offering mutual support and socialization for bereaved people wanting the share the journey into change and renewal. It is well-established that grief has no timeline. As such, some First Step group members may choose to begin participating in the weeks following the death of their loved one. In turn, others may find themselves open to the benefits of participating in a grief support group years later and are welcome to do so.</p>
<p>A <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/traumatic-loss-grief-support-group/">Traumatic Loss Support Group</a> will continue to meet once monthly on a drop-in basis. The content of this group’s meetings is specifically developed for those who have experienced the death of a loved one due to homicide, suicide, drug poisoning, workplace accident, or sudden illness. The next drop-in session for traumatic loss support will be held February 1.</p>
<p>Chilliwack Hospice Society recognizes that significant loss isn’t limited to human connections. Beginning February 14, a supportive space will be created for those <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/grieving-the-death-of-a-pet/">grieving the death of a beloved pet</a>. The group will meet once weekly for four weeks and include topics such as normalizing grief, making room to grieve, self-care, the importance of rituals, and memorializing your pet.</p>
<p>In addition to grief support groups, staff and volunteers offer many opportunities for one-to-one support and complementary therapies to assist members of the community through the grieving process. Informal connections with other bereaved individuals and mutual support can be found in <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/relaxation-program/">Relaxation Program</a>, <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/supportive-walking-group/">Supportive Walking Group</a>, and <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/education/education-workshops/">Gentle Chair Yoga</a> sessions.</p>
<p>As part of the organization’s community outreach and education programs, a matinée series of <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/education/education-workshops/">‘Movies That Move You’</a> will be shown once monthly, starting with <em>Manchester By The Sea</em> on January 30. Each movie has been selected for its themes of grief and loss and are suitable for adults’ viewing and discussion. <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/education/education-workshops/">Advance Care Planning</a> workshops will continue in 2024 with the next two-part session starting March 21. The writing prompts, worksheets, and group discussion help individuals or their parents develop an Advance Care Plan, including indicating one’s beliefs, values, and wishes, Temporary Substitute Decision Maker, Representation Agreement, and Advance Directive.</p>
<p>If you or someone you know is grieving the loss of a loved one right now, call Chilliwack Hospice Society at (604) 795-4660 or visit <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a> to learn more about the one-to-one support, groups and workshops that are currently being offered. Donations are always gratefully accepted at the Thrifty Boutique and online at <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org/donate">www.chilliwackhospice.org/donate</a></p>
<p>For more information, news, and events, join our <a href="https://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1111489023622&amp;p=oi">email newsletter list</a> or follow @ChilliwackHospice on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChilliwackHospice/">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chilliwackhospice/">Instagram</a>.</p>
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		<title>Chilliwack Hospice Society recognizes National Grief and Bereavement Day</title>
		<link>https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/chilliwack-hospice-society-recognizes-national-grief-and-bereavement-day/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Desmond Devnich]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:00:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bereavement Programs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bereavement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[canadian hospice and palliative care association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chilliwack hospice society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grieving process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hospice care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[national grief and bereavement day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peer support]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/?p=8130</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[On the third Tuesday in November each year, Chilliwack Hospice Society joins organizations across Canada in recognizing National Grief and Bereavement Day. Join us on November 21 as we honour, show respect for, and advocate for those who are experiencing grief, bereavement, anticipatory grief, and chronic sorrow. Recognizing this significant day gives us an opportunity  [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On the third Tuesday in November each year, Chilliwack Hospice Society joins organizations across Canada in recognizing National Grief and Bereavement Day. Join us on November 21 as we honour, show respect for, and advocate for those who are experiencing grief, bereavement, anticipatory grief, and chronic sorrow.</p>
<p>Recognizing this significant day gives us an opportunity to share and normalize talking about grief, and to highlight resources that are available to those coping with loss. Grief is the natural and normal response to loss, however grief is often misunderstood. It has no timeline, and it shows up differently for each person. Grief isn’t limited to the loss of a person; we can all experience grief following the loss of a pet, a relationship, or our health and mobility.</p>
<p>Although an individual experience, grieving does not need to be done alone. In their <a href="https://www.chpca.ca/campaigns/bereavementday/">Grief and Bereavement Day campaign</a>, the Canadian Hospice and Palliative Care Association offers several suggestions for ways in which we can support someone who is navigating grief and loss. These include letting them know you’re thinking of them; not assuming what they want or need; acknowledging their loss; and offering practical assistance such as picking up groceries or helping with chores around the house if permitted.</p>
<blockquote><p>“When connecting with a grieving person, remember you cannot fix their grief,” says Jennifer Dacre, Palliative and Bereavement Services Manager at Chilliwack Hospice Society. “You can, however, walk alongside them on their grief journey with empathy and compassion. Sometimes words aren’t required, but a listening ear is most appreciated.”</p></blockquote>
<p>Chilliwack Hospice Society offers one-to-one grief support, free of charge, to adults, youth, and children in Chilliwack and the surrounding communities. Additionally, we facilitate many grief support groups throughout the year, including our <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/first-step-grief-support-group/">First Step Grief Support Group</a> and others dedicated to pet loss, sibling loss, traumatic loss, and grieving families.</p>
<p>Tomorrow night, Wednesday, November 22, starting at 6:00pm, Chilliwack Hospice Society will host our <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/memorial-events/">Annual Memorial Celebration</a> at Vineyard Community Centre, located at 45892 Wellington Avenue. A time of reflection and support in the company of others whose loved one has died, the Annual Memorial Celebration is for everyone who is grieving. This year’s program will focus on creative expressions of grief. Guests are asked to please bring a framed photo of their loved one with them. Light refreshments will be served.</p>
<p>Beginning December 8, look for Celebrate a Life trees at Minter Country Garden and Thrifty Boutique. <a href="https://www.chilliwackhospice.org/programs-and-services/memorial-events/">Celebrate A Life</a> is an opportunity to write a message that’s on your heart onto a personalized butterfly in memory of a loved one on our trees of celebration. Hanging a butterfly on the tree has become a cherished ritual during the holiday season for many bereaved people in our community.</p>
<p>To learn more about the grief support programs and services available at Chilliwack Hospice Society, or to donate in honour of National Grief and Bereavement Day, please call (604) 795-4660 or visit <a href="http://www.chilliwackhospice.org">www.chilliwackhospice.org</a></p>
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