Losing a loved one is one of the hardest events of our lives. And dealing with the
emotional upheaval that follows can be hard and exhausting work. If we try to
manage our loss alone, or without letting our grief be fully expressed, it often gets
harder and more complicated for us.
Gabriola’s Companions in Grief is a small group that meets regularly and offers
the space to share grief, to mourn loved ones and find support from others
struggling with loss. Bette Lou Hagen says
“This group has saved my life. I don’t think I would have gotten through this period of my life without it.”
To speak and be heard makes a difference, particularly when, as Joanie Wright
notes,
“There is total acceptance of how we feel, what we say and where we’re at…no judgement at all…And it's not just for the newly grieving, but also for people who need support after grieving for a longer time.”
Experienced facilitators, trained by the PHC Community Care Program, create a
safe, confidential and nurturing space. It’s often the sharing of grief that helps
build our capacity for finding meaning in the wake of loss. Moving towards
acceptance of loss can make room for a return of joy, without forgetting or
diminishing the memories of our loved ones.
If you would like to talk to someone and find out more about Companions in
Grief, call Odette at 250.268.8765 or email
An amazing variety of information on loss is available – in memoirs, non-fiction,
novels and websites. Our recommended list, PHC GRIEF & LOSS RESOURCES, is
available at this link: www.phcgabriola.org/_files/ugd/6d0330_fe840261e82c4c68814aae73734234ad.pdf