Gilda’s Club Launches “Living with Grief” Series

Gilda’s Club has long been associated with support for individuals and families facing a cancer diagnosis. However, the organization’s Grand Rapids and Lowell Clubhouses have a second mission as well. They are also devoted to walking alongside people who are grappling with the grieving process.

Thanks to the generosity of the Lowell community, Pink Arrow Pride and Lowell Senior Neighbors, Gilda’s Club has been able to offer an array of services to local families. Now, it is adding a new resource with the “Living with Grief” series that starts on Tuesday, January 23, 2018.

Support for Those in Mourning

While those who have lost a loved one can already attend a weekly Tuesday night support group, the “Living with Grief” series will offer something different. It’s an educational program designed so participants can explore different topics related to the grief journey. In addition to getting information and handouts from a trained facilitator, there will be an opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns with others in attendance.

“Each week will explore a different topic related to the grief process and overall emotional health on a grief journey,” says Lindsay Jousma, program manager with Gilda’s Grand Rapids. “Our hope is participants will find the series beneficial as they learn about grief, normalize their experience and feelings and find ways that will be of help as they continue to live with and cope with the death of [a] person.”

The goal is for participants to walk away with a better understanding of how grief affects the many facets of someone’s life. What’s more, they should learn various methods to cope with these emotions in a healthy way.

How to Sign Up for the “Living with Grief” Series

The “Living with Grief” series starts on Tuesday January 23 and runs weekly through Tuesday, February 13. The group will meet from 4:30-5:30pm at Gilda’s Club Lowell which is located at 314 S. Hudson Street. It’s the white house across the street from the fire station.

Anyone is welcome to attend the series, and there is no cost. For more information or to sign-up in advance, call the Lowell Clubhouse at 897-8600. Those grieving the loss of a loved one are invited to stay after the series to attend a free supper and attend an evening grief support group, if they’d like.

To learn more about Gilda’s Club Lowell, including its free programs and volunteer opportunities, call 897-8600, stop by the clubhouse between 12:30-8:30pm on Tuesdays or visit the Gilda’s Club website.